Publicis starts strategic arm

The Publicis Group has established a brand consultancy arm, though it is not expected to compete with design groups. Instead, the new consultancy will provide strategic services.

The service, which launches next year, is headed by Stephen Meade, who is relinquishing his client service director role, and David Howard, who has joined from Getty Images.

“This service exists because there is a blurring between the worlds of advertising and design,” says Howard.