ZenithOptimedia wins O2 dome communications strategy

by Mark Banham, Brand Republic 24-Aug-06, 11:00

LONDON - ZenithOptimedia has been tasked with developing the communications strategy for the launch of The O2 dome at Greenwich as a new concert and casino venue.

The Publicis-owned agency won the contract from Anschutz Entertaiment Group, owner of the dome, and will plan the promotional activity for the former Millennium Dome up to and around its opening in summer 2007.

The venue has a 23,000 capacity and is set to include an exhibit called the British Hall of Fame, a 2,200 capacity club, a 1,800 theatre, a cinema complex, restaurant facilities and a selection of bars.

Live sporting events will also be part of the venue's offering, with boxing, tennis, gymnastics and basketball all set to feature. The O2 Dome is also expected to feature heavily in the 2012 Olympics.

Lesley Saville, chief marketing officer at AEG Europe, owner of The O2, said: "I am delighted to be working with ZenithOptimedia, they have developed a strategy which shows intrinsic understanding of our market and they have the unique ability to work seamlessly with our founding partner O2."

Gerry Boyle, chief executive of ZenithOptimedia, said "Being part of the most exciting entertainment venue launch the UK has seen for years is a real pleasure for us, and being an integral part of this major investment for two ZenithOptimedia clients makes it an even more rewarding a task"

ZenithOptimedia is already has strong connections with the O2 brand. The telecommunications giant consolidated its media account into the agency in April 2004 dropping PHD Group and the now defunct Allmond Partnership from the £30m business.

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