SINGAPORE — Logistics giant UPS has moved Asia-Pacific PR duties to Zeno after 19 years with Ogilvy, PRovoke Media can reveal. 

The decision follows a competitive review that took place in late 2020. The remit covers UPS' regional communications strategy, media relations and external content development, with an estimated value in the high six-figure range, including mainland China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia.

"We are excited to work with Zeno to cement UPS’ status as a global logistics provider moving our world forward by delivering what matters," said Kara Ross, UPS president of international communications, digital and executive affairs.

"By tapping into Zeno’s data analytics-driven approach and team of experienced content strategists, together we will tell the unique stories of UPS’ people, customers and partners. We would also like to thank Ogilvy for their strong partnership for almost two decades."

“Logistics has never been more important," added Zeno Asia-Pacific growth and innovation MD David Lian. "While the media spotlight is currently on logistics companies’ ability to deliver vaccines quickly and reliably, UPS is also playing a vital role in keeping goods moving internationally for large and small businesses alike. As UPS’ communications partner, we will tell compelling stories about how UPS is innovating to make logistics work harder for people and companies in Asia, and for the region’s economy as a whole.”

The decision comes after UPS shifted its global advertising business out of Ogilvy to Interpublic at the start of 2019. 

"We had a wonderful partnership with UPS and celebrate our last 19 years together," said Scott Kronick, the former Ogilvy Asia-Pacific PR CEO who is now senior advisor at the firm. "At Ogilvy, we are very proud of our association with UPS and will continue to root for their continued success."

UPS named a new CEO last year, with Carol Tomé joining amid soaring demand for the company's services, thanks to booming e-commerce sales fuelled by the pandemic. Q4 revenues increased by 21%, with international revenues up 27% during the same period. 

For Zeno, the UPS mandate is the second major regional win in recent months. PRovoke Media recently revealed that the firm had also landed Lenovo's Asia-Pacific PR assignment, displacing incumbent firm WE.