Faaez Samadi
Sep 8, 2017

Bell Pottinger Asia rebrands as Klareco Communications

Memo from CEO states that Asia business of beleaguered UK namesake is "ringfenced" and solvent.

Ang Shih Huei
Ang Shih Huei

Bell Pottinger Asia today relaunched as Klareco Communications, formalising its total separation from Bell Pottinger UK, which is close to collapse following the scandal over its involvement in a campaign in South Africa.

A memo from Asia CEO Ang Shih Huei (see below) said that it had been an “extraordinary and difficult time” but that the Asia team was now relaunching as Klareco Communications under a new ownership structure.

“This underlines what we have been reiterating over recent days—that our team in Asia, is and always has been, a separate legal entity from Bell Pottinger in the UK,” the memo read. “While the UK business is expected to go into administration as early as next week, the Asia business is entirely ringfenced and solvent. Our teams are intact, we continue to serve our clients and it is entirely business as usual.”

Klareco means "clarity" in Esperanto, and Huei said the name “underlines the diversity and inclusive values of this team, and our aspirations for the future”.

Bell Pottinger’s rapid demise last week stems from work for South African client Oakbay Investment, which was deemed “likely to inflame racial discord” by the UK Public Relations and Communications Association. The PRCA then expelled the PR agency, and CEO James Henderson resigned. Numerous clients severed ties with the agency following the revelations.

Source:
Campaign Asia

Related Articles

Just Published

1 hour ago

The rational consumer: Why China’s shoppers are ...

A new mindset is reshaping the Chinese consumer—64% now prioritise emotional fulfilment over material goods. Live entertainment, wellness and self-improvement are taking precedence over luxury shopping. For brands, selling happiness now matters more than selling products.

2 hours ago

HSBC’s CMO on using Hong Kong as a backdrop to ...

To commemorate HSBC’s 160th birthday, Shum talks with Campaign about marketing efforts to mark the occasion, how the brand maintains relevancy, and utilising the fabric of Hong Kong in its marketing.

2 hours ago

Move and win roundup: Week of March 10, 2025

Dentsu, Orange Line, Sparro, and more, in our weekly collection of people moves and account news.

3 hours ago

The value of experience: Why adland must address ageism

The advertising industry's obsession with youth risks sidelining seasoned professionals, leading to a loss of intellectual capital crucial for long-term success, argues IPG Mediabrand's Geoff Clarke.