French Connection FCUKs off to join Beattie at new agency

by Jennifer Whitehead, Brand Republic 13-May-05, 12:45

LONDON - TBWA\London has confirmed that the French Connection account will be shifting to former executive creative director Trevor Beattie's new agency, Beattie McGuinness Bungay.

The move was rumoured from the moment news of Beattie's departure was revealed in Campaign last week. He was closely identified with French Connection's campaign ever since he suggested that it turn the FCUK abbreviation, which was used internally, into a marketing tool.

TBWA\London said it was not surprised by the move and that the exit would allow it to pursue other clothing labels as clients. It had held the account since 1998.

Matt Shepherd-Smith, managing director of TBWA\London, said: "Given the unique nature of Trevor's relationship and agreement with French Connection, it is as we anticipated going to follow him. Fortunately, this frees us to pursue an exciting opportunity with another global fashion brand who we're already in talks with."

Other accounts rumoured considering a shift to Beattie McGuinness Bungay are the £15m McCain's frozen food account and the Labour Party.

The loss of the three accounts would be a major blow to TBWA, which has suffered a string of account losses in recent months including the £20m News Group Newspapers business and the £22m Abbey account.

Beattie, chief executive Andrew McGuinness and deputy creative director Bill Bungay all resigned last Thursday to launch Beattie McGuinness Bungay, as reported first in Campaign magazine.

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