Advertising News South Africa

DDB SA takes out McDonald's

After a competitive three-way pitch with TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris and incumbent Leo Burnett, McDonald's South Africa has awarded DDB SA its entire advertising account. Comments Glen Lomas, CEO of DDB SA, “The whole agency is thrilled. McDonald's has legendary status for us as marketers and advertisers but perhaps more important it has held a special place in all our hearts since we were snotty-nosed kids."

The iconic global brand and tier two sponsor of the 2010 FIFA World Cup wants to develop a strong partnership with its agency going forward for the next five years.

“We enjoyed working with everyone we met in the McDonald's family during the pitch and they are definitely a ‘people first' organisation; this is something we really respect. It is a great honour to be asked to share their journey to 2010 and beyond with them,” says Lomas.

“What truly excites us is that we speak the same language. DDB and McDonald's have wonderfully parallel structures and ethos. We're both global giants, but with very relevant local sensitivities and understanding.” adds Paul Binikos, business development director at DDB SA.

2008 is already proving to be a ‘golden' year for DDB SA. It currently tops the creativity league and recently picked up a Gold statue at the Clios. “Indeed, one Gold statue and two Golden Arches in the same month is quite something,” quips Lomas.

Let's do Biz