Carat Wins Coca-Cola Account In Southern And East Africa
Media agency Carat Africa has won the Coca-Cola account in a four-way pitch that included Mediacom (which previously held the account), MediaShop (which holds the Coca-Cola account in South Africa), and Starcom. It now holds the Coca-Cola account in 6 countries within the region.
Adriana Prista-Johnson, media manager for Carat Africa, described the win as a major achievement for the company. She ascribed the success to a number of factors, including a deep understanding of the client’s business and Carat’s commitment to investing in Africa.
“The Carat team from Sub-Saharan Africa, Uganda and Kenya all began their careers in media by working on the Coca-Cola account. We are totally excited about winning the Coca-Cola account. For most of us it feels like the return home of a long-time love,” said Prista-Johnson.
“I believe that the client was also impressed by the focus that Carat Africa places on training throughout the continent,” she added.
Carat is part of the Aegis media group, currently the biggest media network in Europe according to the RECMA billings classification. Dawn Rowlands, Aegis CEO for Sub- Saharan Africa, says that the region is an extremely important growth area for the group.
Pro-cycling champion Tyler Farrar stars in new Transitions Optical TV ad
In keeping with its tradition of designing high-impact TV advertising campaigns that drive consumer awareness about the benefits, comfort and UV protection guaranteed by Transitions®adaptive lenses, Transitions Optical will be launching its three week TV ad campaign, featuring pro-cycling champion Tyler Farrar, on March 7, 2011.
The ad, which will be broadcast on SABC2, SABC3, e.tv and select DStv channels, clearly demonstrates how Transitions® adaptive lenses automatically adapt to changing light; protecting the eyes from over-exposure to harmful UV rays. Transitions® adaptive lenses are perfect for all wearers of prescription spectacle lenses, especially those who, like Farrar, love outdoor life.
Avusa Media Response To Release Of ABC Figures
Avusa titles posted healthy growth in the latest ABC figures released for the fourth quarter of 2010. Lynette Benjamin, Market Research Manager at Avusa Media, said: “There’s no doubt that the Sunday Times is one of the country’s strongest and most trusted media brands and that, in years to come, it will continue to strengthen its position as the country’s paper of choice.
“However, what continues to amaze us is the incredible uptake of titles like The Times (+2.8%) and the Herald (+2.8%) which are both seeing marked growth amidst uncertain times for print media. We’re definitely seeing a trend where papers such as Sunday Times and Sowetan, both of which have a longstanding heritage and legacy, maintain their readership based on the loyalty, trust and integrity built over the years.”
The Times, a paper still in its infancy, not only became profitable within three years, but has quickly become of the most successful and loved dailies in South Africa. And, under the leadership of editor, Phylicia Oppelt, the paper is set to continue on this growth path, based on a strong, smart editorial mix, an inexpensive pricing model and inspired, bold design.