WPP's Always to acquire 3ree in Singapore

This acquisition marks a further step towards WPP's declared goal of developing its networks in fast-growth markets and sectors. 

3ree offers event management, sourcing and production of marketing premiums, project management for exhibitions and activations, and design and creative services, as well as digital marketing. 

The company, which was founded in 2010 by Tan Li Li and Isabel Cheong, has implemented projects in key Asian markets, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, India, Japan, Korea and Australia, for a wide range of clients, including Microsoft, Mitsubishi Electronic, Seagate and StarHub.

Always, which is majority-owned by J. Walter Thompson, offers trade marketing, including merchandiser management and retail audit; retail marketing, including promoter management, in-store activation and retail environment designs; as well as shopper marketing, including point of sale design, events and road shows, as well as premium design and production.

“Our partnership with 3ree represents our confidence in the Always field marketing proposition, not only in China but across Asia, particularly Southeast Asia.  We are very proud of Always’ unique ability to deliver pioneering solutions to clients of “scale management” through its unrivaled execution network.   3ree will be a critical new addition to this capability,” said Tom Doctoroff, CEO of J. Walter Thompson Asia Pacific.

Always set up offices in Taiwan and Singapore in 2013.  3ree will be a part of Always Singapore, and together, will serve as a hub for regional expansion.

“I am so happy to have 3ree in the Always Group. I strongly believe that 3ree will be the turbo engine to speed up our Asia expansion plan,” said Cai Hua, founder and chairman of Always.

In Greater China, WPP companies (including associates) have revenue of US$1.5 billion and employ 15,000 people. In the Asia Pacific region, WPP companies (including associates) generate revenues of US$5 billion and employ around 50,000 people.