
Saatchi & Saatchi's journey began in 1970 when Charles Saatchi and Maurice Saatchi founded the agency in London. The brothers had a vision to create a global network of advertising agencies.
Their first big break came in 1978 with the Conservative Party's "Labour Isn't Working" campaign, which helped Margaret Thatcher win the general election. The campaign's success catapulted Saatchi & Saatchi to international recognition.
Saatchi & Saatchi's innovative approach to advertising was a key factor in its rapid growth and success. The agency's focus on creativity and effectiveness helped it win numerous awards and accolades.
In 1986, the Saatchi brothers sold their stake in the agency to the Publicis Groupe, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Saatchi & Saatchi's history.
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Company History
Saatchi & Saatchi was founded in London by brothers Maurice and Charles Saatchi in 1970. They had previously worked together in the creative consultancy CramerSaatchi, which was formed in London in 1967.
Charles Saatchi started his career as a copywriter at Benton & Bowles in New York City in 1965. He later worked at Collett Dickenson Pearce and John Collins & Partners before teaming up with art director Ross Cramer to form CramerSaatchi.
The consultancy, CramerSaatchi, took on employees John Hegarty and Jeremy Sinclair and began to work directly for clients. Sinclair's "Pregnant Man" ad for the Health Education Council first attracted attention to the small agency.
Saatchi & Saatchi's first famous ad was the "Pregnant Man" for the UK's Health Education Council, featuring a man who appeared to be pregnant. This ad was a significant milestone for the agency.
In 1975, the Saatchi brothers set upon a ferocious course of business acquisitions. They achieved a public company listing through the reverse takeover of the Garland Compton agency.
Garland Compton was a long-established, conservative British agency, founded by Sidney Garland in 1927.
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Challenges and Decline
Saatchi & Saatchi faced significant challenges in the late 1990s due to a decline in its creative reputation.
The agency's inability to adapt to changing market conditions and its heavy reliance on a single creative director, Bob Isherwood, contributed to its struggles.
In 2000, Saatchi & Saatchi was sold to Publicis Groupe for $1.1 billion, marking a significant shift in its ownership and operations.
Difficulties and Decline

The decline of a once-thriving industry is a sad reality that many of us have witnessed firsthand. The industry's inability to adapt to changing market conditions and technological advancements led to a significant decline in sales and revenue.
One major factor contributing to this decline was the rise of a new, more efficient competitor that offered similar products at a lower cost. This competitor's innovative business model and streamlined operations allowed them to undercut the industry's prices, making it difficult for them to compete.
The industry's failure to innovate and improve its products and services also played a significant role in its decline. Despite numerous attempts to revamp their offerings, they were unable to keep up with the changing needs and preferences of their customers.
The loss of market share and revenue had a devastating impact on the industry's workforce, resulting in widespread layoffs and closures. Many employees were left without jobs, and the local economy suffered as a result.
The industry's decline also had a ripple effect on the broader economy, as it led to a loss of tax revenue and economic activity. This, in turn, had a negative impact on the government's ability to fund essential public services and infrastructure projects.
Keep a Safe Distance

The campaign "Keep a safe distance" is a great example of how effective advertising can be. It was created by Saatchi & Saatchi for the Road and Transport Authority Dubai.
Bechara Mouzannar, the Chief Creative Officer - MENA, led the project.
New Alliances and Acquisitions
In 2007, Saatchi & Saatchi formed a new business alliance with Fallon, a sister agency, to create the Saatchi & Saatchi-Fallon (SSF Group) entity.
The alliance aimed to operate under the supervision of Kevin Roberts, who was named CEO of the new entity.
Kevin Roberts reported to Robert Senior, one of the original partners of Fallon London, who oversaw the Europe & UK operations of the alliance.
The SSF Group was contracted by Cadbury to handle its Dairy Milk and related brands across several markets in 2008.
DFS was purchased by Saatchi & Saatchi Advertising Worldwide in 1986 for $75M.
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A New Alliance
In 2007, Saatchi & Saatchi's London office saw a significant decline in its client roster, with Toyota UK and Europe leaving to CHI & Partners. The London office had previously lost the Lexus business to the same agency.
The loss of these major clients was a major blow to Saatchi & Saatchi's London office, which had been struggling to maintain its position in the UK market.
However, the same year saw the announcement of a new business alliance between Saatchi & Saatchi and Fallon, a sister agency. The new alliance, known as Saatchi & Saatchi-Fallon (SSF Group), was formed to operate under the supervision of Kevin Roberts.
Kevin Roberts was named CEO of the new entity, and Robert Senior, one of the original partners of Fallon London, was appointed to preside over the Europe & UK operations of the alliance.
The SSF Group was formed with the goal of creating a more competitive and innovative agency network.
EE's 'Curfew' Campaign
EE's 'Curfew' campaign is a notable example of a brand leveraging cutting-edge technology to connect with families in the digital age.
The campaign was created in partnership with Saatchi & Saatchi, a creative powerhouse.

EE's campaign aims to meet the evolving needs of families, showcasing the brand's commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Saatchi & Saatchi's involvement in the campaign highlights the importance of partnerships in driving innovative brand messaging.
The 'Curfew' campaign demonstrates EE's ability to adapt to the changing needs of its customers, ensuring the brand remains a leader in the industry.
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Fallon Group (2007-2017)
The Fallon Group was an alliance with Saatchi & Saatchi from 2007 to 2017.
In 2016, the UK agency was ranked 12th in the Campaign Magazine table of agency billings, a notable decline from its pre-eminent position.
Kevin Roberts, the global CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi Fallon Group, left the agency in 2017 after controversy surrounding comments he made about women's equality in the advertising industry.
He was replaced by Robert Senior, who took over as CEO after Roberts' departure.
By the end of 2017, the alliance between Saatchi & Saatchi and Fallon was dissolved, with Fallon being "realigned" into another Publicis Groupe communications agency, Leo Burnett.
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Rebuild and Rebranding
Saatchi & Saatchi London moved out of its headquarters at 80 Charlotte Street in 2017, a space it had occupied for over 50 years.
The company relocated to a new purpose-built Publicis Communications campus at 40 Chancery Lane, London, which also serves as the Saatchi & Saatchi global headquarters.
This significant move marked a new chapter for the company under the supervision of new CEO Magnus Djaba.
Rebuilds (2017-Present)
Saatchi & Saatchi London moved out of its headquarters at 80 Charlotte Street, a location it had occupied for over fifty years.
The company set up a new purpose-built campus at 40 Chancery Lane, London, which now serves as its global headquarters.
A new staff-only pub, reminiscent of the old tradition, was established on the premises.
The pub, named "The Pregnant Man", is open to the public, marking a departure from its former exclusive status.
Digital
In 2006, Saatchi & Saatchi focused its digital credentials, recognizing the shift of consumers to mobile phones and broadband Internet services.
Saatchi responded with initiatives such as its global joint venture with Hyperfactory, a mobile marketing agency based in New Zealand.
This led to awards in 2006 from PricewaterhouseCoopers and Procter & Gamble.
Saatchi's digital efforts also spawned a competition among its 2009 interns in London, which resulted in the formation of the Secret London Facebook Group.
The associated website was a notable outcome of this competition.
Creative Builds Brands
Creative Builds Brands by pushing the boundaries and challenging the status quo. Saatchi London was the most creative agency back in the late '80s and early '90s, attracting the best creatives and delivering award-winning work.
Saatchi's creatives were known for their willingness to take risks and kill the brutal sameness of most advertising. This approach led to campaigns like British Airways' "The World's Favourite Airline" that became global sensations.
Brilliant creative thinking can make or break a brand. It's what sets the unignorable agencies apart from the rest, like Droga5, GSM, Wieden+Kennedy, and M&C Saatchi.
Saatchi & Saatchi's campaign with The Hygiene Bank is a perfect example of creative builds brands. Their campaign, centered around The Edible Soap, forces us to confront an uncomfortable truth and grabs our attention.
Ballsy and creative agencies win pitches and capture hearts. Saatchi's learnings from their time at the top can be applied to any brand looking to stand out from the crowd.
Los Angeles Office Tour
As we explore the Rebuild and Rebranding process, let's take a closer look at the Los Angeles Office Tour. The office is located in the heart of the city, in a building that's been fully renovated to meet the company's modern needs.
The office features an open-concept layout, with plenty of natural light pouring in through the floor-to-ceiling windows. This design choice helps to create a sense of community and collaboration among employees.
One of the standout features of the office is the rooftop garden, where employees can take a break and enjoy the views of the city. This green space is not only a great spot for relaxation, but also serves as a reminder of the company's commitment to sustainability.
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The office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including high-speed internet and top-of-the-line computers. This investment in technology has been a game-changer for the company, allowing employees to stay connected and productive on the go.
The company's commitment to employee well-being is evident in the office's design, which includes a fully-stocked kitchen and a meditation room. These amenities help to create a healthy and happy work environment.
The office's location is also a major perk, with plenty of public transportation options and bike parking available. This makes it easy for employees to get to work without a car, reducing the company's carbon footprint.
Key Executives
Andrew Rutherford, a renowned copywriter, led Saatchi & Saatchi's creative efforts during his six-year tenure. He created the influential Labour Isn't Working campaign in 1978, which was voted the Poster of the Twentieth Century.
Rutherford's work at Saatchi & Saatchi was highly acclaimed, with several award-winning campaigns under his belt. He left the agency in 1979 to found Wight Collins Rutherford and Scott (WCRS).
Martin Sorrell, Group Finance Director from 1977 to 1984, played a crucial role in the agency's significant acquisition drive during that time. He designed and executed the company's earn out mechanism, which was instrumental in their growth.
In 1975, Martin Sorrell joined Saatchi & Saatchi, which was undergoing a reverse takeover of Compton at the time.
Garland Compton (1975–1988)
Saatchi & Saatchi's acquisition drive was a key factor in their growth during this period. They acquired over 35 marketing services businesses between 1972 and 1987.
Sir John Hegarty, Lord Tim Bell, and Sir Martin Sorrell were among the talented individuals who got their start at the agency during this time. They produced admired creative work, including the "Labour Isn't Working" campaign for the Conservative Party.
The agency's global expansion drive was particularly successful, with significant acquisitions in the United States. They acquired Compton Advertising Inc in 1982 for £56.8M, and Yankelovich Skelly & White in 1984, which provided market research services.
Saatchi & Saatchi's international expansion drive included acquisitions in the Netherlands, Australia, and Hong Kong. They also acquired management consultancy The Hay Group in 1984 for $100M.
The agency's acquisitions were not limited to advertising agencies - they also acquired market research firms, management consultancies, and IT consulting companies.
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Ousting
Ousting a key executive can be a complex and delicate process. A company's board of directors typically has the authority to remove a CEO or other high-ranking executive.
Executive contracts often include provisions that outline the circumstances under which an executive can be terminated. In some cases, this may involve a buyout or severance package.
Andrew Rutherford
Andrew Rutherford was a highly influential copywriter and Full Board Director at Saatchi & Saatchi.
He created the Labour Isn't Working campaign in 1978, which was voted the Poster of the Twentieth Century and is widely credited with helping Margaret Thatcher's election victory in 1979.
During his six years at Saatchi & Saatchi, Rutherford was responsible for a significant proportion of the agency's award-winning campaigns.
He worked on campaigns for The Health Council, Dunlop, Kronenbourg lager, Jaffa, and The Evening News.
In 1979, Rutherford left Saatchi & Saatchi to found Wight Collins Rutherford and Scott (WCRS), which became a highly successful agency.
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Martin Sorrell
Martin Sorrell is a seasoned executive with a long history in the advertising industry. Born in 1945, he joined Saatchi & Saatchi in 1975 and served as Group Finance Director from 1977 until 1984.
He played a key role in the company's significant acquisition drive during that time, refining and using the mechanism of the earn out.
Sorrell's experience in the industry spans multiple continents, with a presence in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
SVP, Strategy
In the world of key executives, one title stands out for its strategic importance: SVP, Strategy. Michelle Chan is the SVP, Strategy of Saatchi & Saatchi.
This role is crucial for making informed decisions that drive a company's growth and success.
National Geographic: Planet or Plastic?
Saatchi & Saatchi worked with National Geographic on the campaign "Planet or plastic?".
The campaign was led by Chief Creative Officer Komal Bedi Sohal, who played a crucial role in shaping the creative direction.
Creative Directors Luis Paulo Gatti, Raja Rizkallah, and William Mathovani were also part of the team, contributing their expertise to the project.
This collaboration resulted in a powerful campaign that aimed to raise awareness about the impact of plastic on our planet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Saatchi and Saatchi a good company?
Saatchi & Saatchi has a 3.8-star rating on Glassdoor based on 905 employee reviews, indicating a generally positive work experience. Employees praise the company, but read reviews to learn more about their experiences.
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