Engine, the UK’s largest privately-owned communications group, today announces the creation of a new global brand consultancy: Calling Brands. The business combines the group’s London-based brand consultancy Dave with Identica Shanghai, previously part of Cossette in Asia.
The move is designed to take advantage of the fundamental shift in the landscape for businesses and brands today, with China and Asia now firmly established as centres of global influence and economic power.
Calling Brands will start with offices in London, Shanghai and Hong Kong, and a total of 70 employees including consultants, creatives and project managers.
The new consultancy will help its clients to build their brands globally with a focus on business and brand Purpose - the definition of why businesses exist, where their brands are positioned and how they create value. The consultancy will also help its clients to deliver their promises to clients, staff and investors.
Dan Bobby, CEO of Calling Brands in the UK said: “The world has changed, with the balance of power shifting from West to East. China will be the driver of the global economy in the next decade and brands - both Western and Asian - need to think differently to prosper. Calling Brands is the beginning of a new global brand consultancy, starting in the UK and Asia. We’ve created it to help businesses around the world face up to the challenges and embrace the opportunities that globalisation presents.
"We’re incredibly excited about working with our new colleagues in Asia. The process of co-creating our new name and brand together is just the beginning of what will become a great working relationship. It’s been great seeing the teams working side-by-side and learning from each other.”
Calling Brands in Asia will be led by Ken Koo who added: “It is very exciting for us to be part of Calling Brands. Chinese businesses are now firmly on the journey of taking their brands out to the World and working with the team in London is a great opportunity for us to partner those Chinese brands who are making that step, as well as being able to offer our clients new services in our local market.”
Peter Scott, Engine’s Global CEO commented: “We are delighted to have made our first investment in Asia and bringing the two businesses together to create a single entity capable of responding to the changing business landscape is very good for all concerned – especially our clients.”
