Nokia calls global digital advertising pitch

by Kate Nettleton, Campaign 25-Jan-08

Nokia has kicked off a search for a global digital advertising network to handle online communications across all of its markets worldwide.

The mobile phone retailer is seeking a network with presence in multiple
countries, but is understood to be considering appointing a roster of
agencies.

The review marks a shift in Nokia's marketing strategy towards a greater

focus on online communications. The winning agency will be briefed to

produce online advertising, web design and to lead digital strategy for
the mobile giant.

In the past, Nokia has used separate digital agencies to handle briefs
in individual markets, including the Swedish agency Farfar, R/GA in the
US and Agency Republic.

The decision to review its digital marketing arrangements follows a
restructure of Nokia's marketing department, which saw December's
appointment of the former Nokia marketing chief in China, Chris Leong,
as its head of marketing services.

In July 2007, the mobile phone retailer appointed Wieden & Kennedy as
the lead global advertising agency for its handsets. This was followed
by the appointment of JWT to implement its global advertising campaigns
in more than 80 markets.