Ad Agency Wieden+Kennedy Announces Divorce from Fast Food Giant KFC
In a surprising turn of events, Wieden+Kennedy Portland, the creative powerhouse behind KFC's iconic ad campaigns, has ended its seven-year partnership with the fast-food giant.
The news was confirmed by a spokesperson for Wieden+Kennedy, who expressed gratitude for the successful partnership and thanked everyone involved. KFC announced in September that its creative and media business would be up for review, hinting at the impending change.
During the seven-year tenure, Wieden+Kennedy Portland was responsible for resurrecting and reimagining Colonel Sanders in KFC's ads, a move that significantly boosted the brand's popularity. However, the reasons for the end of the partnership remain undisclosed.
The spokesperson for Wieden+Kennedy also stated that the work done with KFC had a profound impact on both the brand and the agency. The specific ads or campaigns created during the partnership were not mentioned in the statement.
It's worth noting that KFC is currently seeking a new U.S. creative and media agency. However, the details about the agencies involved in the pitch, including Wieden+Kennedy Portland, have not been disclosed.
This development comes as a surprise to the advertising industry, given Wieden+Kennedy Portland's reputation for creating innovative and effective campaigns. The agency was the creative and media partner for KFC in the U.S.
Adweek broke the news, marking the end of an era in the fast-food industry's advertising landscape. As KFC embarks on a new journey, it remains to be seen who will take up the mantle and continue the legacy started by Wieden+Kennedy Portland.
The breakup of the partnership between Wieden+Kennedy Portland and KFC may have significant implications for the finance and business sectors, given the agency's impact on KFC's profitability. This change in creative and media partnership could also trigger shifts in the entertainment industry, as Wieden+Kennedy Portland is known for its innovative and effective advertising campaigns.
