Publicis Groupe acquires China-based W&K Communications

Media and communication giant Publicis Groupe has acquired Chinese advertising agency W&K Communications. The company will now be rebranded as Leo Burnett W&K Beijing Advertising Co. and fall under the Leo Burnett Greater China umbrella.

With this move Publicis hopes to widen its global footprint and increase the revenue share in high-growth markets, namely China.

“Together we will not only increase our market share, but we will create ideas that will connect with people and impact their behavior in a relevant, interesting and useful way,” said Tom Bernardin, chairman and CEO of Leo Burnett Worldwide, in a statement.

W&K offers advertising, promotions, TV production and media buying services. It has offices in Beijing and Guangzhou and employs nearly 100 people. Major clients include Air China and Tsingtao Beer.

The company will continue to be led by chairman Guo Weijun and managing director Wang Yi, both of whom will report to Michael Wood, CEO of Leo Burnett Greater China.

Leo Burnett's clients include The Coca-Cola Company, Kellogg, McDonald's, Procter & Gamble and Samsung.