Lexmark Business In Play After Client, Grey Separate

Grey Advertising and Lexmark International have parted ways over “creative differences,” according to a joint statement. The client’s global ad account is worth about $25 million, sources said.
Lexmark manufactures computer printers and related supplies. Grey here, which has used several creative approaches on the business, handled corporate and product advertising for the client since 1995.
A representative for the Lexington, Ky.-based client said Lexmark is conducting a review of several shops and will narrow its list to two or three agencies by the end of January.
The client would not confirm billings for the business. Lexmark spent $9 million in 1997 and $5 million in 1998 in the U.S., per Competitive Media Reporting.
–Sloane Luca