Japan – Global PR agency HAVAS Red (formerly Red HAVAS) has expanded its footprint in Asia Pacific with the launch of a new office in Japan, further enhancing its merged media capabilities and broadening its service offerings in the region.
The launch of HAVAS Red’s new Japan office follows the network’s regional expansion last November, when it acquired a majority stake in PR Pundit, one of India’s leading PR consultancy firms, now operating as PR Pundit HAVAS Red.
Masashi Kitaichi will take on the role of managing director, leading the newly launched Japan office.
Speaking about the expansion, Kitaichi said, “We’ve been fortunate to work already with a wonderful portfolio of clients at the HAVAS Village in Japan. Now, by expanding to become HAVAS Red Japan, we are poised to be even more powerful and integrated partners for these clients on everything from social media to experiential to public relations.”
Darrell Nelson, CEO of HAVAS Japan, also commented, “HAVAS Japan has seen significant growth over the last 3 years, and by launching Havas Red in Japan with Masashi leading the capability, we are not only expanding our service offerings but also positioning ourselves to better meet the specific demands of this market.”
“With the addition of comprehensive PR capabilities, we can deliver more integrated and impactful solutions that resonate with local audiences while aligning with global standards. This strategic move ensures that HAVAS Japan is even more equipped to drive meaningful connections for our clients, making us a stronger partner in their growth and success,” he added.
The addition of the Japan office expands HAVAS Red’s merged media capabilities to a total of 19 markets globally.
Earlier this year, HAVAS Red marked its second market entry in Africa with the launch of an office in Ivory Coast. In addition to Japan, India, and Ivory Coast, the agency has operating offices in Australia, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, the Middle East (U.A.E., Saudi Arabia, and Oman), the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, the U.K., the U.S., and Vietnam.
James Wright, global CEO of HAVAS Red and global chairman of HAVAS PR Network, shared, “Bigger, better, bolder, and more borderless—that’s how HAVAS Red continues to grow each year. Expanding into India and Africa last year was a significant milestone for us, opening doors to very exciting regions. Now we’re thrilled to extend our footprint into Japan, where our HAVAS colleagues are already delivering groundbreaking work with iconic clients, and we look forward to providing enhanced PR and social support to continue driving innovation and excellence.”
Meanwhile, Rana Barua, Group CEO of HAVAS India, Southeast and North Asia, commented, “Japan is a key market for HAVAS, and enhancing our capabilities here is central to our One Asia strategy. By broadening our reach and engaging with one of the world’s most dynamic and progressive audiences, we are reinforcing our commitment to creating meaningful connections and delivering impactful narratives.”
In August 2024, HAVAS Red launched Industry by HAVAS Red, a comprehensive communications service aimed at helping B2B clients build meaningful connections across their value chain. Other key offerings include Peaks (executive branding), SWAY (influencer marketing), Red Impact (ESG and sustainability), Health by HAVAS Red (health and wellness), and Red Connect (B2B content marketing).
