Hall & Partners Buy Opens Door to AsiaPac

Omnicom-owned brand and communications research specialist Hall & Partners has acquired a majority stake in Jigsaw International, a custom qualitative research agency based in Shanghai, China. Terms were not disclosed.

Hall & Partners says that the acquisition is part of its ongoing strategy to expand its global reach beyond the US and Europe, into the Asia-Pacific region.

Worldwide CEO Vanella Jackson comments: 'Jigsaw has built a fabulous reputation in Asia for outstanding work and excellent strategic advice. Together we look forward to building stronger partnerships with our international and local clients.'

Founded in 1999, boutique agency Jigsaw is known in the region for its understanding of Chinese lifestyle and youth insights developed through survey and trends data and qualitative exploration. The firm works with multinational and Chinese companies on their communications and brand and product development strategies.

'The China market continues to grow in both scale and brand leadership, creating exciting new opportunities to pioneer innovative research thinking,' adds Kim Beck, Chief Executive Officer of Jigsaw China. 'Our partnership with Hall & Partners enables us to offer best in class services to our clients.'

Web sites: www.hall-and-partners.com and www.jigsaw-i.com .