BMW Malaysia calls for creative pitch, parts ways with Ogilvy after five years

BMW Malaysia has launched a creative pitch for its local market, with at least four agencies pitching for the account. A+M understands that the agencies involved are Naga DDB Malaysia, Saatchi & Saatchi Arachnid, FCB Malaysia and Cheil Malaysia.Meanwhile the incumbent on the account is Ogilvy Malaysia. In a statement to A+M, the agency said it "decided not to pitch this time around" and will assist in making sure of a smooth transition.Ogilvy Malaysia's CEO John Deschner said, "Ogilvy declines to re-pitch for the BMW business. We have had five great years on this account but have decided to part ways amicably. We wish BMW and its new agency all the best."Earlier this year, it also awarded its media buying duties to Zenith alongside Cohn and Wolfe's appointment in handling its PR duties. Both contracts are for a year with an option to extend for another year, depending on further evaluation. On the other hand, Next Digital KL remains as BMW Malaysia's customer relationship management (CRM) agency.A+M has also reached out to BMW Malaysia for a statement.