Activision Blizzard selects MEC as media buying and planning agency of record

Activision Blizzard, Inc. and MEC today jointly announced that MEC has been selected as Activision Blizzard's media planning and buying agency of record. MEC will lead the global media planning and buying activities for Activision Publishing, Inc. and Blizzard Entertainment, Inc.'s North American and European television media planning and buying.

The decision was made following a comprehensive agency assessment conducted by Activision Blizzard after the close of the Activision and Vivendi Games merger on July 9, 2008, to consolidate media and planning activities for the company's product portfolio, and achieve cost-saving synergies. The review process was managed by the Los Angeles office of Ark Advisors. Starcom MediaVest Group was Activision Publishing's incumbent media buying and planning agency, while Horizon Media had been Blizzard Entertainment's agency.

"Our decision to consolidate with MEC is not a reflection of the performance or quality of service and talent at MediaVest USA, Starcom MediaVest or Horizon Media. They have all been valued partners and have demonstrated extraordinary passion and understanding of our business," said Brad Jakeman, Chief Creative Officer of Activision Publishing. "Until now several media agencies around the world were assigned to Activision Blizzard and the goal of the review was to identify one global agency that would better allow the company to benefit from its combined scale in the marketplace. We believe MEC's approach to media planning and buying coupled with their experience and capabilities make them a strong strategic partner as we look for new and innovative ways to reach our customers and improve effectiveness across our business."

Charles Courtier, CEO MEC said, "We are delighted that Activision Blizzard has selected MEC. This success, first of all, is due to our fantastic team effort across the network. It also reflects our ability to drive business internationally but ultimately deliver at a local level. And to be given an opportunity to do this for Activision Blizzard globally - a client with such exciting brands at the forefront of entertainment and culture - is extremely satisfying."