"Exclusive: Global Ad Giant WPP Shutters Sustainability-Focused Agency"

"AKQA Bloom’s closure comes amid calls for the ad and PR industry to stop working with fossil fuel clients."

"Global ad giant WPP has closed AKQA Bloom, a Miami-based communications agency specialising in sustainability campaigns, according to an email to staff obtained by DeSmog, and merged its operations with parent agency AKQA.

Founded in 2022, AKQA Bloom positioned itself as a forward-thinking advertising agency dedicated to environmental sustainability and social impact.

The AKQA staff email said that AKQA Bloom was being integrated into the wider agency’s “new regional structure” in the Americas along with AKQA Bloom’s clients and staff. According to its LinkedIn profile, AKQA Bloom had 10 employees.

A source close to AKQA said WPP — a London-based holding company with around 90 agencies worldwide, one of the world’s biggest advertising agencies — made the decision in response to declining revenues at the holding company.

The source, who asked not to be identified for fear of professional repercussions, also said that WPP intends to bring in more clients from the fossil fuel industry."

Ellen Ormesher reports for DeSmog March 25, 2025.

Source: DeSmog, 04/01/2025