Global brand agency, The Brand Union, has extended its business by formerly launching The Brand Union Africa with a new office in Cape Town. The agency has also acquired a new office in Bangkok.

The Brand Union has an established presence in South Africa through its longstanding Johannesburg office. But with this new development, The Brand Union Africa has been formally launched, bringing together 60 people from a number of businesses including Coley Porter Bell, Fearless Executive and The Brand Union Johannesburg. The collective strength of these businesses will create a stronger set of experience, skill and integrated brand delivery across the continent.

The Brand Union is also launching a Bangkok office, off the back of the acquisition of Ogilvy Brands by Design. The Brand Union’s mission in Asia is to support international brands in their development in the region and, increasingly, to help brands from Asia take on the world. The Bangkok office further enhances The Brand Union’s significant presence across the AsiaPac region, which already includes established offices in Bangalore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.

Photo: Ismael Ibnoulouafi

As part of an ongoing initiative to develop global client relationships, Ismael Ibnoulouafi has been appointed to the newly created role of International Client Services Director. Ismael will be based at The Brand Union’s global headquarters in London, but will connect client relationships across the network in general, and with the Paris, Moscow, and Singapore offices in particular.

Simon Bolton, Worldwide CEO, The Brand Union, comments, “Global business is changing so it’s vital our business evolves to offer the best international service, ensuring we remain the boardroom choice for branding advice. The new offices will be a major boost to the network’s capability, as we partner with businesses around the world to uncover insights, opportunities and define future strategies that bring global brands to life. Ismael Ibnoulouafi’s significant contribution to the network, including establishing the Paris and Moscow offices, made him a clear choice for the exciting new role of International Client Services Director.”