Havas merges CDG and DIA

Conran Design Group has broadened its international scope by merging with London and Singapore design consultancy DIA.

The deal takes immediate effect. Initial plans are for the DIA brand to be retained.

Both groups are part of Havas Advertising’s Diversified Agencies division, since DIA’s previous parent company Lopex joined Havas in August. CDG has been a Havas member since 1990.

CDG managing director David Worthington heads the now 110-strong group, while DIA managing director Barry Salter will stay with the company until spring 2000, to help bring staff and clients with the transition period.

According to Worthington, all the staff are “incredibly positive” about the move.

“There is no intention to reduce staff numbers. This is all about global growth in our core areas of retail, branding, packaging and communications,” he says.

Further expansion plans are on the agenda for CDG, though nothing is due for completion in the near future. “I am very keen to have an operation in America, but no targets have been lined up as we speak. One day we will be a very big business and a major player,” adds Worthington. He describes the past 12 months as “an excellent year, far exceeding expectations”.

Salter has no definite plans about his own future after next spring, but says: “This is an exciting development for everyone involved. DIA’s strengths in the consumer sector fit perfectly alongside CDG’s retail expertise.”