KSDP Pentagraph opens first European office

KSDP Pentagraph has become the first South African design group to open an office in Europe, triggering similar moves by other consultancies, its management predicts.

The opening in Amsterdam will enable KSDP to serve international clients and develop a European client base.

“KSDP Pentagraph has gained multinational clients that are Europe-based and we needed to deliver a client service more locally. We also wanted to compete in Europe,” says a spokeswoman for the multidisciplinary consultancy.

The consultancy’s Dutch office opened this month. “Amsterdam is centrally located and has a link with South Africa in terms of language and culture,” the spokeswoman adds.

KSDP Pentagraph in Amsterdam is headed by senior designer Sharlene Barbour and is planning to expand its multinational team of four designers.

KSDP Pentagraph, whose clients include TNT Express and Alfred Dunhill, is the largest consultancy in South Africa, with more than 50 designers.

Joe Kieser, consultancy managing director in Johannesburg, feels the group is well positioned to compete in Europe.

“KSDP Pentagraph has done most of the major identities in South Africa, and has gained accelerated experience,” he says, “but we are acutely aware of the competition.”