M&C Saatchi scoops David Jones

M&C Saatchi has been appointed by David Jones to handle its advertising account following a competitive pitch against incumbent Saatchi & Saatchi.

The pitch, which kicked off in February, originally included DDB, BMF and Wellcom in contention for the business which Saatchi & Saatchi has held for the past 14 years.

The loss is a major blow for Saatchi & Saatchi’s Australian office, which services the account through a dedicated division called Team Saatchi.

David Jones Group general manager of financial services and marketing, Damian Eales, said: “M&C Saatchi was chosen as the successful tenderer on the basis of its demonstrated ability to deliver large and complex advertising programs for similar clients, the strength of their leadership team and creative capability and the cost efficiency they can bring to our business through the scale and sophistication of their operation.

“This decision is not due to any dissatisfaction with the pre-existing relationship or quality of work, it was just an opportunity for a fresh direction with a proven performer.”

Story by Prue Corlette, AdNews.