by Herman Manson (@marklives) MetropolitanRepublic has issued a statement announcing the closure of its Cape Town office. “In a refocusing of its business interests following client demand and resultant opportunities, integrated creative advertising agency MetropolitanRepublic has decided to close its Cape Town branch and open additional branches in new markets on the African continent,” reads the announcement.
MetropolitanRepublic launched its Cape Town office in June 2013 under the leadership of Josie Fisher. It appointed Mike Beukes as creative director. In its first six months, it grew to 15 people.
In the statement, MetropolitanRepublic says that “some key talent in the Cape Town branch have been invited to take up the challenge of operating further north with the Johannesburg team members.”
Launched to assist in serving Sanlam
MetropolitanRepublic launched the Cape Town office in part to assist in servicing the Sanlam business but the company has since moved its advertising and communications account to King James Group. MetropolitanRepublic will continue to service Sanlam brand and corporate identity work through the Johannesburg agency.
According to MetropolitanRepublic it will now focus on establishing branches in several sub-Saharan countries. “Opportunities within the existing MetropolitanRepublic client base as well as new clients won in Uganda and South Sudan have required a rethink of the agency’s business strategy.
“Plans to establish branches beyond those already open for business in the sub-Saharan countries of Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia and Swaziland are under way,” says the agency. “Further announcements regarding this rollout are imminent.”
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