Publicis Groupe hails changes in Cannes Lions, WPP stays mum

Publicis Groupe has hailed the steps taken by Cannes Lions organisers to reset the festival around its core values by reducing its length and complexity to focus on celebrating impactful ideas from around the industry. Along with Publicis, WPP had mounted pressure on the Cannes Lions organisers to push the changes in the festival to reflect the changes in the industry, including falling profit margins.

In an interview with BestMediaInfo.com last month, Cannes Lions Chairman Terry Savage had said that they were in discussion with WPP and any changes to the festival would take place after consulting all the stakeholders.

In a massive overhaul of festival announced yesterday, the major changes include removal of Cyber, Integrated and Promo Lions and 120 Lions sub-categories. Besides, the craft categories within Print, Outdoor and Design will be removed from their respective Lions to be judged by a specialist Industry Craft Jury. The festival will now run for five days, from June 18 to June 22.

Having worked closely with the Festival’s organisers over the past six months, Publicis has reaffirmed its commitment to the Cannes Lions and its transformation. The advertising giant will actively participate in these efforts and renew its presence for the 2019 edition of the Festival and beyond.

“Ascential’s decision to re-center the Cannes Lions’ focus around creativity is commendable, and Publicis Groupe is looking forward to attending the Festival in 2019. We are pleased that our decision to refocus our investments for 12 months in order to create the platform of the future has inspired a larger discussion in the industry, leading to what are clearly some positive changes. Publicis Groupe has always been a driving force for innovation, and we remain strongly focused on and committed to creative excellence. Viva Tech 2018 will be a real celebration of transformative ideas and initiatives and a fitting precursor to our return to industry events from September 2018,” said Arthur Sadoun, Chairman and CEO of Publicis Groupe.

WPP refrained from commenting on the changes.

Info@BestMediaInfo.com