J&J reviews media in Asia-Pacific

Media Asia 02-Apr-07, 08:10

GLOBAL - After months of speculation, Johnson & Johnson has kicked off its global media review, in a move that will see Interpublic Group agencies Universal McCann and Initiative defend their hold on the business in several Asia-Pacific markets.

In Asia-Pacific, J&J’s media spend is estimated at US$300 million. At present, the two IPG agencies hold the bulk of the business in the region, along with MediaCom in India and OMD in China.

However, question-marks remain over whether the China account will be reviewed so soon after last year’s Mainland pitch saw the business shift from Universal McCann to OMD. RFPs to select agencies are expected to go out in two weeks’ time.

The process will also include Pfizer Consumer Healthcare’s media, after J&J acquired the business last year – itself believed to be a key driver behind the decision to review. In Asia-Pacific, MindShare holds Pfizer’s planning duties, while IPG handles buying. The Asia-Pacific leg of the review is being managed by R3.