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UKTV has awarded its eight-figure media planning and buying account to Havas Entertainment following a review launched in February.
The agency replaces the incumbent, Omnicom’s Hearts & Science; its predecessor Rocket won the case in 2008.
Starcom and Total Media were also among those vying for the new contract, which begins in July.
UKTV media director Alasdair Weddell said: “I was blown away by the level of creativity and innovative thinking shown by all the agencies involved in our review process – we are very lucky to have a strong media planning and buying sector in our industry.
“However, as entertainment specialists, Havas Entertainment stood out as the agency best placed to support UKTV in our next chapter thanks to the team’s expertise in turning viewers into fans.
Havas Entertainment “exists for brands like UKTV – like-minded specialists who understand fans’ needs and how to engage with them through a carefully crafted mix of media and creativity that goes far beyond “spots and space””, Nick Wright, the agency’s chief executive, said.
“So far, our experience has been highly collaborative, engaging and inspiring,” he added. “This has given us a clear understanding of UKTV’s business and desires, which has allowed us to ‘bring out the best’ in what we do and is the perfect springboard for a successful, long-term partnership. We can’t wait to be stuck.
UKTV is part of BBC Studios and has channels such as Dave, Gold, W, Drama, Eden and Yesterday – covering comedy, entertainment, natural history, facts and drama.
