AUCKLAND, Monday: Kingsland-based integrated indie Dark Horse has added L’Oreal NZ and Starbucks NZ to their client portfolio after competitive pitches.
The agency says it did not know the identities of the unsuccessful pitchers. “This was a confidential RFP process,” said Dark Horse comms manager Magdalen Drummond.
“In terms of previous agencies for both clients, as we understand it there was no incumbent agency for either.
“We are the first appointed agency for Starbucks NZ, and Dark Horse has worked with the L’Oreal Luxe team for three years, and entered into the Events RFP process for the entire L’Oreal portfolio in March.
“The agency has now been appointed as the L’Oreal brand experience agency of choice for the next two years.
Agency MD Mike Hewett said: “We have been proud to work on the L’Oreal Luxe brands for a number of years and we’re excited to broaden our relationship to include the wider L’Oreal portfolio.
“In terms of previous agencies for both clients, as we understand it there was no incumbent agency for either.”
L’Oreal NZ comms manager Rachel Reid said: “We’ve enjoyed a fantastic partnership with Dark Horse over the last three years and are excited about the future projects that we will deliver together, within a changing landscape.”
Dark Horse is the first agency appointment for Starbucks NZ following their purchase by Tahua Capital in late 2018.
After the competitive pitch process, Dark Horse was selected to assist with digital and media communications for the famous beverage company.
Starbucks NZ ceo Charles Belcher said: “Starbucks is one of the most recognisable brands in the world but sadly much of the incredible story behind the brand – from its ethical sourcing practices, its valuing of people and the human connection, its beverage craft and more – has yet to be told in new Zealand.
“We were looking for someone who would understand the fullness of our brand and could connect that to the New Zealand market. We believe Dark Horse are the perfect people to partner with us to do this and we are excited about beginning this journey with them.”
Hewett: “We are thrilled to be adding such iconic brands to our client list and we’re excited to get stuck in with some exciting projects in the works. With every pitch our strategic direction and ability to offer clients a diverse range of services under one roof set us apart” says Hewitt.
About Dark Horse
Dark Horse is a relationship focussed integrated creative agency that creates premium brand experiences. Co-founded by Mike Hewitt and Liam Taylor in 2012, Dark Horse is a proud member of Project Worldwide, a global independent agency network. Dark Horse is part of Project’s suite of world-class contemporary agencies dedicated to delivering exceptional campaigns on a global scale.
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