Ad Agency Wieden+Kennedy Announces Separation from KFC Partnership
In a recent development, fast-food giant KFC announced that it is reviewing its U.S. creative and media agency, with a pitch currently ongoing. The spokesperson for the company confirmed this news but did not mention any specific agencies involved.
This news comes after Wieden+Kennedy Portland, the agency responsible for KFC's ads featuring the iconic Colonel Sanders, ended its seven-year partnership with the brand. The agency's departure was confirmed by Wieden+Kennedy to Adweek, but the reasons for the split remain unclear.
During the seven-year collaboration, Wieden+Kennedy Portland played a significant role in reimagining Colonel Sanders for KFC's advertising campaigns. The agency's work with KFC was credited with changing both the brand and the agency.
The spokesperson for Wieden+Kennedy expressed gratitude for the seven-year collaboration, stating, "We would like to thank everyone involved in the collaboration over the past seven years." However, the statement did not confirm or deny Wieden+Kennedy's participation in the current pitch.
As for the ongoing pitch, major agencies like McCann and FCB have been involved, but the specifics might have changed recently. The search results lack updated details, so it's recommended to check the latest industry news sources such as Ad Age or Campaign for the most current and detailed information.
KFC's spokesperson also confirmed the review of its creative and media agency, saying, "We are currently in the process of reviewing our creative and media agency, and we look forward to finding the right partner to help us continue to tell our brand story."
With Wieden+Kennedy Portland no longer part of the pitch process, it remains to be seen who will take over as KFC's U.S. creative and media agency. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
The ongoing agency review by KFC presents an opportunity for new business in the finance sector, as major advertising agencies like McCann and FCB compete for the contract. The departure of Wieden+Kennedy Portland from KFC's creative team marks a shift in the brand's business relationships within the entertainment industry.
