ICOM, one of the world's largest global networks of independent agencies providing advertising, marketing communications, media, digital and related services, has appointed Moscow-based SA Media Group to represent the network in Russia.
Composed of award-winning agencies specializing in different disciplines, SA Media Group is among the top three largest independent media communication agency groups in Russia. Their various companies include Smart View which offers media services; Ruport which provides creative services; SA Digital, a provider of digital services; OOHDESK, a programmatic buying platform for outdoor advertising; and Daromania, a souvenir printing business.
“We have been looking for an agency in Russia that meets our criteria for some time,” said Bob Morrison, ICOM chairman and chairman-CEO, Morrison, Atlanta, USA. “SA Media Group has the expertise, experience and entrepreneurial spirit that fit right in with ICOM’s unique culture. Furthermore, Russia is a market often requested in global agency RFPs, and we needed a partner with rich capabilities and the same mindset as our other member agencies to reinforce ICOM’s seamless international offering.”
Said Andrew Sushik, SA Media Group CEO and founder, “As an expanding media group, we want to grow with partners who share our mentality and work ethic. After several months of research and evaluation, we got to know many ICOM members as well as the network management team and Board of Directors. We believe ICOM is a perfect match for us.”
Morrison added, “It’s a given that our members be able to provide unrivaled international capabilities and knowledge but it’s important to us that they also share a belief in the value of a commitment to learning about cultures, ideas, resources and experiences from each other.”
For its part, SA Media Group, like many other ICOM members, is seeking to strengthen its international capabilities and presence and to get and share experience and knowledge from like-minded agencies around the world. The agency is starting to expand some of its proprietary services in outdoor and digital to other markets in Europe, including its OOHDESK, software for out-of-home media buying.
“In order to keep up with ever-changing trends in the fast-moving marketing communications world, advertising agencies must adapt fast and provide enhanced customer service,” Sushik said. “Joining one of the largest global alliances of independent agency groups is part of our growth and development strategy. Additionally, being appointed the exclusive ICOM representative in Russia gives us a competitive advantage when pitching to global clients.”
Founded in 2010, the group has 150 employees. Clients include Russian and international commercial and government clients such as banks, digital services, food delivery services, frozen foods, insurance services, residential construction, telecommunications and more.
“We were impressed with SA Media Group’s work and local reputation,” said ICOM Executive Director Emma Keenan. “They have a young and strongly entrepreneurial leadership team which is a good fit with our network.”