Halesway’s founder and managing director Liz Rawlingson
Draftfcb has made its first international acquisition, buying UK-based Halesway for an undisclosed amount as part of its plans to expand its presence in Europe.
The New York-based advertising agency has also announced a rebranding initiative that will see it become FCB Health
Its deal with Halesway sees it gain a business that specialises in integrated digital and traditional media campaigns for clients in the pharma, medical devices and OTC sectors.
Dana Maiman, president and CEO of FCB Health, said: “The acquisition of Halesway is part of our long-term plan to build our resources around the world.
“It is UK based, with in-house teams of designers, writers and digital experts who serve clients locally, across Europe and beyond. Our joining together further enhances our ability to deliver targeted, high-impact, results-oriented campaigns for our growing list of global clients.”
From Halesway’s side it brings a client roster that includes Abbott, Baxter, Boehringer Ingelheim, Hospira, MSD, Novartis, Reckitt Benckiser and Smith & Nephew.
“We were absolutely thrilled when we first met Halesway,” said Maiman. “It’s an agency with an enviable client roster and a coveted reputation as a top-notch creative, strategic agency. Two of our biggest clients are shared and our core capabilities are complementary, so we totally augment each other’s offerings.”
Liz Rawlingson, founder and managing director of Halesway, added: “The growing demand for pan-European and global campaigns for our clients is only one of the reasons behind this partnership. Being part of FCB Health will allow us to take Halesway to new heights and, in turn, we will be able to provide them with a strong and innovative hub for their new expansion into Europe.”
Halesway, which was founded in 1993 and located in Andover, Hampshire, will continue to be led by its current management team of Rawlingson, Niki Crossley – now promoted to managing director – commercial and Neil Padgett – promoted to managing director – creative.
The agency will also continue to use the Halesway name and its management will report to FCB Health CEO Maiman with the exception of Padgett, who will report to Rich Levy, FCB Health chief creative officer.