UOB creative account in play

Singapore - United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) has invited a number of ad agencies to present their credentials in the first phase of a review of its creative business in Singapore. Marketing Weekly understands that two agencies will make it through to the actual pitch to take place in a proposed second round.

Quak Hiang Whai, Head of Group Communications & Investor Relations at UOB told Marketing Weekly that being a "dynamic organisation", the Group continually engaged in reviews of its operations and partnerships. "Appraising advertising agencies that serve us is part of this process," he added.

DDB, as the incumbent on the business, will not be required to present its credentials. BBDO has confirmed receiving an invitation, with Saatchi & Saatchi and Euro RSCG also believed to be involved.

According to David Tang, CEO & President of DDB Worldwide/Singapore, both client and agency have "worked hard" on the account over the last three years, resulting in the winning of a Gold Effie award last year. "An agency has to be good at doing creative yet hardworking ads, or it wouldn't be good enough for UOB," he said, adding that DDB was "very loyal" to its clients.

It is not yet known if UOB's media business -- currently handled by Universal McCann -- will also be put into play.