Walker Media UK rebrands to Blue 449

Publicis Groupe has announced the launch of a new global media agency to be led by recently-acquired and newly-rebranded Walker Media UK.

From today, Walker Media is to be known as Blue 449 and will become part of the ZenithOptimedia Group.

Headquartered in the UK in the former Walker Media office, Blue 449 will be led by a team staffed from both Walker and ZenithOptimedia, with the agency’s hubs formed by start-ups and acquisitions.

Named to underline the union of the two agencies, Blue 449 references the colour wavelength between the ‘purple’ brand of Walker Media and ‘blue’ of ZenithOptimedia.

“The world doesn’t need yet another global media agency network,” said Steve King, CEO, worldwide, ZenithOptimedia Group.

“What it needs is a new force of energy for clients looking to break with traditions. Blue 449 is a realisation of visionary attitudes and thinking set to disrupt the market.”

Phil Georgiadis, UK chairman of Blue 449, added: “The Walker Media brand is hugely fortunate to have had a strong and mighty 17 year history in the UK.

“And to be in the driving seat for a new generation agency, built around a philosophy for modern times, is a great privilege for me, our management team and our clients who have been informed of this new offering.”

All existing Walker Media clients will now be Blue 449 clients.