Starcom (media agency)
 | This article contains promotional content. (June 2016) |
| Industry | Advertising, marketing |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2000 |
| Headquarters | 35 West Wacker Drive, |
Number of locations | 110 |
Areas served | Global |
Key people | Michael Epstein, US & Global CEO |
Number of employees | 8,000 |
| Parent | Publicis |
| Website | www |
Starcom is an international media agency network and part of Publicis Groupe, a French multinational communications company.[1] Its headquarters are located in Chicago, United States.
History
[edit]The holding company Starcom MediaVest Group (SMG) was established in 2000 through the combination of Starcom and MediaVest.[2] Jack Klues, then Chief Executive Officer of Starcom Worldwide, was appointed as the first CEO of SMG. In 2008, Laura Desmond succeeded him as CEO.[3]
The group has entered into agreements with digital platforms and data companies, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Acxiom, and Tencent, primarily in the areas of advertising, data, and analytics.[4][5]
SMG later reorganized its operations into several divisions, including media, content, and technology services, reflecting an increased focus on digital media and data-driven activities.
Structure
[edit]Starcom MediaVest Group has included a number of specialized units and affiliated agencies, such as:
- SMG Performance Marketing, a media agency focused on performance-based campaigns
- LiquidThread, a unit engaged in branded content and entertainment
- MRY, a digital creative agency[6]
- Relevant24, a real-time content and marketing unit[7]
- RUN, a programmatic advertising platform[8]
- VivaKi, a division focused on programmatic media buying
- IP Pixel, a digital agency integrated into SMG in 2007[9]
Other functions within the group have included data analytics, technology services, and sports and event marketing.
Employees and locations
[edit]As of 2023, Starcom MediaVest Group employed approximately 7,000 people across 49 locations worldwide.[10][11]
References
[edit]- ^ "Publicis Media Unfolds Its Organisation, Powered by Four Global Brands: Starcom, Zenith, Mediavest, Spark, and Optimedia Blue 449" (Press release). Publicis Groupe. October 3, 2016. Retrieved April 21, 2026.
- ^ "Mediavest, Starcom Joined In Powerhouse". Chicago Tribune. May 3, 2000. Retrieved November 19, 2015.
- ^ Kirk, Jim (June 10, 2008). "Renetta McCann stepping down as Starcom MediaVest CEO". Target Market News. Archived from the original on September 7, 2008. Retrieved November 19, 2015.
- ^ "Twitter, Starcom Mediavest Group Sign Huge Ad Deal". Adweek. April 23, 2013. Retrieved November 19, 2015.
- ^ "Facebook inks $500M ad deal with Publicis: Ad Age". CNBC. May 19, 2014. Archived from the original on August 19, 2019. Retrieved April 21, 2026.
- ^ Tadena, Nathalie (September 24, 2014). "Digital Agency MRY to Join Starcom MediaVest Umbrella". The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved November 20, 2015.
- ^ "Publicis acquires real-time content business Relevant24". M&M Global. December 12, 2014. Archived from the original on November 20, 2015. Retrieved November 20, 2015.
- ^ Schiff, Allison (October 28, 2014). "Publicis Groupe Acquires Programmatic Platform RUN". AdExchanger. Retrieved November 20, 2015.
- ^ Shields, Michael (January 3, 2005). "SMG Eyes 'Agency Of The Future,' Expands Creative Services Role". Archived from the original on February 27, 2007. Retrieved December 20, 2007.
- ^ "Global Presence". Starcom. Retrieved January 3, 2023.
- ^ "Locations". Starcom. Retrieved January 3, 2023.
