StartJG acquisition aims to strengthen Fitch's pivot to Greater China

HONG KONG - Fitch Design, known as StartJG until its acquisition announced yesterday, gives Fitch stronger digital capabilities "on the doorstep" of China, according to Andrew Crombie, Fitch's CEO for Southeast and North Asia.

“In the past, Fitch’s regional efforts have been based out of our Singapore studio," Crombie said. "Greater China, and China in particular, present exciting and fast-moving markets where brands really need to stand out to be successful. To operate at ‘China-speed’, you need to be closer to the market. StartJG presented a formidable digital and experience capability, right on the doorstep of these markets, that enables us to further enhance our Greater China offer.”

Fitch also has studios in Beijing and Shanghai. 

“Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta is a core strategic region for us, and we plan to continue on our growth trajectory here,” Cummings said. With studios in India, Singapore, Hong Kong and China, Fitch is "well placed" to deliver great work for clients across Asia, he added. 

Cummings and managing director Cally Williams will join Fitch’s senior leadership team for Southeast and North Asia.

Founded in 2009 by Cummings, StartJG is a brand and customer design experience consultancy has a staff of about 40 people. According to a release from WPP, StartJG Hong Kong’s gross revenues for the year ending 31 March 2016 were HK$31.1 million with gross assets of HK$10.3 million. Clients include Swire Properties, Nord Anglia Education and Genting HK.