Havas Play Strenghtens With Acquisition

French multinational advertising firm Havas has acquired London-based social media marketing agency Wilderness.

As per the agreement, Wilderness’ team of more than 30 employees will join Havas Play, the company’s UK-based subsidiary which launched in July last year, and will be based out of Havas Village London.

The acquisition is intended to ‘bolster Havas’ social media content offering, and to help clients connect with their target audiences.’ 

Founded in 2015 by former Universal and Sony executive Tom Jarvis, Wilderness’ client roster includes Disney+, BBC Studios, Heineken, Ticketmaster and Dolby.

Wilderness was listed as a ‘top 50 agency’ by online marketing and media publication The Drum in 2021, and previously won ‘Best of Twitter at The Drum Social Media Awards for its work with hit series Game of Thrones.

Yannick Bolloré, Chairman and Global CEO of Havas, said, “Wilderness is a forward-thinking business that perfectly aligns with Havas’ unique positioning at the crossroads of entertainment and advertising, helping clients reach their customers in innovative and meaningful ways. 

“We are excited to see how the addition of Wilderness will enhance complementary specialisms provided by Havas Play and others across Havas globally.”  

Jarvis added, “We have a long-term vision to become the leading social media agency for clients looking to transform how they approach social within their organisation. 

“The scale and opportunity being part of Havas affords us will allow us to realise that mission.”