MasterCard is shifting its U.S. media account to Interpublic Group’s Universal McCann without a review, the client has confirmed.
The client spent $165 million on ads last year, down 25 percent from 2008, according to Nielsen. From January to June of this year, MasterCard spent $40 million on ads, per Nielsen.
The shift ends a 15-year relationship between the client and Omnicom Group’s GSD&M Idea City, Austin, Texas, which helped it launch the iconic “Priceless” campaign.
GSD&M declined to comment, but sources said the client informed the agency of its decision on Tuesday. A source indicated that the client was interested in having both creative (handled by McCann Erickson) and media under one roof. UM also handles media chores for the client outside the U.S.
UM referred calls to the client.
In a statement, the client said: “MasterCard has consolidated its media duties with Universal McCann. MasterCard has enjoyed a great partnership and success with GSD&M Idea City for more than 10 years and we are extremely proud of the work we have done together. At this time, we have decided to consolidate our media planning and buying responsibilities with…Universal McCann to create greater efficiencies and consistency around the globe.”
