Rediffusion wins over WPP in control of its Indian JV

In a joint statement, Nanda and Balakrishnan said, “45 years back, we started Rediffusion with the vision of creating a passionate and bold agency that would take ownership of its clients and their work; with the promise of creating dynamic, fearless and category-busting work. As communication is undergoing a revolution in this hyper-connected and technology-oriented world, it’s time Rediffusion rode this new wave with a new freedom, zeal and passion. We believe we will be able to deploy a variety of digital tools and creative styles more swiftly, if Rediffusion is on its own.“

 

When Martin Sorrell quit as WPP's head in April this year, this was one of the first things that industry watchers had predicted. Campaign India's blog by Sandeep Goyal had this to say. "With the exit of Sir Martin, one thorny issue that may resolve itself is the sale of Rediffusion. Diwan Arun Nanda, the owner of Rediffusion, was once a close friend of Sir Martin. Then, reportedly, they fell apart. And that spelt the doom of one of India’s most revered agencies. In typical Sorrell style, WPP tried to strong arm Nanda into submission but Sir Martin did not realise that Nanda (first batch gold medalist of IIM-A) was made of sterner stuff. Martin took away the Colgate Palmolive business from Rediffusion. Then Citibank. Then Airtel. Sorrell tried to kill Rediffusion. But as I said, Nanda was made of sterner stuff. Rediffusion has survived but is a pale shadow of its original self. The exit of Sorrell may take the personal animosity out of the Rediffusion sale to Young & Rubicam. Under new management, this could happen sooner rather than later."