By Greg Hazley
Publicis has inked a deal to buy China’s Genedigi group, which the French ad/PR combine said will be aligned with MSLGroup and make that unit the largest PR network in China.
Genedigi is among China’s largest PR firms with 400 staffers and offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. In addition to PR, it handles event and digital marketing, as well as research for clients like Volkswagon, Skoda Auto, ChinaEdu and Tsingtao. Automotive PR is a key part of its business.
“This move reflects our commitment to offering clients solutions that are tailored to the Chinese market and to supporting fast-growing domestic industries,” Olivier Fleurot, who heads MSLGroup, said in a statement.
MSLGroup’s China headcount is set to rise to 650 staffers and 11 offices, including Hong Kong and Taiwan. Publicis acquired Taiwan’s Interactive Comms. in February and Beijing-based Eastwei in November 2010.
Genedigi chairman Xiao Jun will report to MSLGroup Asia president Glenn Osaki.
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