Starcom MediaVest Group MENA caps off stellar 2012

These top honors make SMG MENA the most awarded media agency in the Middle East and North African region.

In 2012, the Group garnered a staggering 17 regional and international awards including Media Agency of the Year at the MENA Cristals in Mzaar, Lebanon. It was also the most awarded media agency at the Dubai Lynx and the only regional network to win at the Festival of Media Global Awards in Switzerland and at the Internationalist in New York, thanks to Olay's 'Eyes of Arabia' campaign. More industry accolades followed in November 2012, when SMG was the only media agency to win Gold at the Gemas Effies for Emirates' 'Hello Tomorrow' campaign.

SMG truly cemented its status as the leading media buying and planning network in the region in 2012, boasting annual billings growth of 5% with a total billings forecast set to reach the $2.1bn mark by the end of the year. Not only did they successfully defend Almarai in the biggest pitch of the year, they also managed to secure 18 new pieces of business which include coveted brands such as Emirates NBD, Novartis, Mango, Meydan, Savola, Lazurde, Tetley, Dubai Sports Council, Ministry Of Cabinet Affairs and Enterprise Qatar.

"As we embark on a New Year, there has never been a more interesting time for SMG as a Human Experience Company," said John Antoniades, Chief Executive Officer of SMG MENA. "The past twelve months were marked by strong growth and recognition - both of which are highly indicative of SMG's valuable contribution to the industry, unwavering commitment to service and innovation. We intend to remain on this successful path in 2013 with plans to maximize the agency's network and further expand our business across the region."