AIS London has used its experience of mobile marketing for O2 to scoop a loyalty brief from arch-rival Vodafone – without a pitch – as the firm looks to step up activity for ‘VIP’ programme members.
The agency – which has gradually shifted away from its Archibald Ingall Stretton moniker following the departure of co-founders Stuart Archibald and John Ingall – is reportedly working on a major campaign in the run-up to Christmas.
Vodafone VIP was launched in 2010 and offers loyal customers rewards such as tickets to Formula One, music festivals like Reading and T in the Park and fashion events.
Activity was previously handled by The Marketing Store, although it is not known how the appointment will affect this relationship. G2 Joshua handles the Vodafone main direct marketing business.
AIS handled the O2 account for eight years until November last year when the company switched the business into Lida. The account was a catalyst for major growth at AIS – ultimately allowing the agency to embark on an international expansion drive which has seen it open offices in New York and Spain.
AIS had survived at least three previous internal reviews of the account but, along with EHS 4D, lost out to Lida in a final three-way shoot-out, managed by the AAR.
Related stories
O2 awards DM business to Lida
Are founders crucial to agency’s future?
