The marketing industry is a rapidly growing sector, with more and more companies entering the fray every day. But how many marketing firms are there? According to Agency Spotter, there are 50 of the largest marketing agencies in the world, with estimated annual revenues. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Data collected by the U.
S. Merkle, recently acquired by Dentsu Aegis Network, shows that there are 77 cities in 31 countries offering technology-enabled, data-driven marketing solutions to large corporations. One of the oldest and most renowned firms is Paris-based Merkle, which has been around since 1945 and has grown to become one of the biggest marketing companies in the world. Acxiom is another major player in the industry, though it may not be as well-known as some of its peers.
This people-based marketing agency is based in Little Rock, Arkansas and provides services such as reputation management, public affairs, brand marketing, digital strategy, social engagement and content strategy. Omnicom was formed in 1986 through a three-way merger between Needham Harper Worldwide, Doyle Dane Bernbach and BBDO Worldwide. This Dallas-based agency offers full marketing and design services to some of the world's leading brands through memorable events. They have clients such as Unilever, Nestlé, American Express, Disney, Xbox and more.
Another major player in the industry is Wunderman, a member of WPP. Forrester Research named Wunderman a leader in marketing database operations and customer engagement strategy for its excellent work for clients such as Microsoft, Fifa, Pantene, Nestle and more. FCB is a global network that offers advertising and public relations services in the fields of health, digital marketing and sports marketing. Hakuhodo-Percept is an advertising joint venture between Hakuhodo and the Indian marketing agency Percept.
BBDO is a digitally focused marketing agency that wins numerous renowned creative marketing awards year after year. The emergence of new players such as consulting firms and technology giants has further blurred the line between what is considered an agency and who is best suited to support global marketing, advertising and digital initiatives.
