Report by Jon Cook, chief executive officer and president
Jon Cook, chief executive officer and president
Global expansion and increased capabilities have advanced VML’s business for several years, and that growth has been amplified by dramatic expansion in North America, which was shaped around major client relationships.
We acquired respected Biggs|Gilmore, with offices in Kalamazoo, Michigan and Chicago, and expanded VML operations in both locations – enabling us to provide enhanced services to three of our largest client partners: Kellogg’s, Kimberly-Clark and PepsiCo. Longtime agency partner Studiocom was rebranded as VML in Atlanta and Bogotá, and we launched full-service operations in Nashville, servicing new AOR duties for the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and global work for Bridgestone.
At the same time, China has become VML’s second largest market through organic growth and acquisition. The combination of VML IM2.0 and China’s largest social media agency, Teein, has created a major hub with more than 400 VMLers in Beijing and Shanghai.
VML secured new client relationships and AOR responsibilities with COBRA PUMA GOLF, Krispy Kreme and NAPA Auto Parts. Additional new business wins included Crayola, Equinox, J.G. Wentworth, Pernod Ricard, QuikTrip, REI, Sear’s Shop Your Way, Toys R Us, Tropicana, U.S. Soccer and more.
2014 was the most awarded year in VML’s history. VML received eight Cannes Lions and we were recognized in all the top tier global award competitions. VML was also honored to win the WPPED Cream PR Crème de la Crème award for the MINDDRIVE Social Fuel pro bono campaign.
In September, we extended our annual day of volunteerism to the entire VML global network. VMLers worked in their communities on VML Worldwide Foundation Day to make a tangible difference. Over a 24-hour period, thousands of photos were posted at #wearevml as VMLers shared experiences around the globe. Our employees continue to drive our business and shape our culture in such amazing ways.