Direct marketing agency Wunderman to buy mobile shop

By Mickey Alam Khan

July 2, 2008

Scenting opportunity

Direct marketing agency Wunderman is set to take a controlling interest in Kassius SA, a French interactive and mobile marketing agency.

Wunderman will acquire a majority interest in Kassius’ issued share capital, according to a statement from WPP Group PLC. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“This investment continues WPP’s strategy of developing its networks in important markets and sectors and strengthening its capabilities in digital media,” WPP said in a statement yesterday.

WPP is one of the leading marketing services conglomerates worldwide, owning global agency brands such as JWT, Ogilvy & Mather, Young & Rubicam, RTCRM and Wunderman. It is based in London.

Founded eight years ago by Florian Lang, Kassius has offices in Paris and Annecy, France.

Kassius offers communication strategies, design and production of Internet and mobile marketing campaigns, and events management.

The agency’s roster of more than 40 clients includes Coca-Cola, Dior, L'Argus, La Banque Postale, Virgin, Meetic, Tag Heuer, Poweo, SunnyD, Honda, Boursorama, La Francaise des Jeux, La Poste and Neuf Telecom.

Kassius posted $8.36 million in revenue and gross assets of $4.4 million as of Sept. 30, 2007.