We first heard some murmurs about this on the Spy line a couple of weeks ago, and now it’s official that Chicago-based agency Commonground has opened up a New York office. As a result, CG now moves closer to one of its newest clients, telecom giant Verizon, which maintains its corporate HQ in Basking Ridge, NJ and awarded African-American-focused ad duties to the agency this past summer. Regarding the expansion into NYC, Commonground co-founder Sherman Wright (pictured above) says, “Our New York office will help strengthen our foothold in the industry as we continue to provide clients with the best possible service and value. With our unique lens to the market place, our existing talent and top-notch client list, we feel like the move to the New York further amplifies our offering and will better help clients navigate the marketing environment.”
We’ve been told that the New York office, which is based in Chelsea and will initially house 15 staffers (though it’s hiring), will not only serve Verizon, but clients like PrimaLoft, a brand that manufactures insulation products for the outdoor, military and fashion markets. Along with the aforementioned accounts, Commonground, which first opened its doors in 2004 and also has an office in Houston, has worked with brands including Nike, Coca-Cola, Bacardi USA and MillerCoors (for example, this mini-Friday reunion spot).