UPDATE: A Sears Holdings spokesperson says that Havas Worldwide has not beat out IPG (as represented by FCB) and Publicis (as represented by Digitas) to win lead creative duties on the Sears Holding Group business, which includes both Sears and Kmart.
Whatever the status of the review, the Havas organization did post a job listing calling for a new art director/designer to work on the Sears account:
“Havas Worldwide Chicago is seeking an stellar Art Director/Designer for its new Sears business.
AdvertisementFor Sears, Kenmore, Craftsman and Diehard, Havas Chicago is employing a digital-first approach and game-changing social ideas, which is helping to breathe new life into this iconic portfolio of brands. Targeting younger audiences through nimble content that activates the brands’ passionate fan base, we’re driving cultural relevance for a whole new generation of fans.”
The word “new” implied that Havas has won a greater share of the existing Sears Holding Company business after winning creative duties for Sears’ Diehard, Kenmore and Craftsman properties (which had been with Y&R) in 2014.
In addition to that business, Havas Media has handled planning/buying for both Sears and Kmart for some time; the relationship began in 2007 and the client retained the shop’s services in November 2012.
The Sears Holdings creative review began in late 2014, with Dentsu’s incumbent mcgarrybowen withdrawing from the competition in February “after its current contract expired without renewal and marketing chief Imran Jooma left the company to join Finish Line.” Omnicom’s DDB also participated, but a source told Adweek they’d withdrawn back in March.
The review was supposed to end at least two months ago, but according to the client it has yet to be resolved.