In the new May 2023 HOT List, Mediaweek contributing editor and MFA Hall of Famer Greg “Sparrow” Graham continues tracking the best-performing media and creative agencies.
Sizzling HOT
Media agency
Atomic 212º
What a sizzling hot run this indie is having and showing no signs of cooling down. The recent COMvergence report had them at the top of the new business barometer beating out the big agency holding companies. With excellent national leadership, client retention, new growth, and an expanding footprint with a new Brisbane office, Atomic 212º goes from strength to strength.
Atomic 212º team montage
Creative Agency
Thinkerbell
Their outstanding work really keeps them sizzling and lately they have recreated some iconic work. I love it when Thinkerbell brings back legendary Aussie work such as “I Feel Like a Toohey’s” for Lion. The original jingle by Mojo and Alan Morris recreates in such a compelling way, wonderful nostalgic memories. Plus, great new work for Mars Wrigley with Rolling Stone magazine for paper-based wrappers for Mars bars, Snickers and Milky Way.
Thinkerbell
HOTTEST
Media Agency
PHD
A little bit of a quiet achiever PHD is turning up the heat. Recent wins such as HESTA are positive and they continue great initiatives around people and culture (extending the Phamily Leap program.) The agency is investing in great new talent in planning/effectiveness – Alex Williams and Ben Lynch and importantly the brilliant appointment of Pia Coyle as MD of Sydney.
PHD team at conference in Canberra last year
Creative Agency
The Royals
With two recent wins for Levande (previous Stockland senior villages) and Tangerine Telecom plus expanded responsibilities for The Natural Chip Company, The Royals continues its hot streak. It definitely has momentum and was recently recognised in the Best Places to Work categories.
The Royals at work and play
HOT
Media Agency
Avenue C
A hot highly respected indie only hires talent with over 10 years of experience which really sets it apart. A brilliant leadership team that is experiencing excellent growth with Brown Forman, Cranky Health, Deloitte, Turo, Manscaped, and Amaysim successes. One to watch that is definitely turning up the heat.
Team Avenue C
Creative Agency
Paper Moose
Always sparking positive charge through creativity its hot work speaks for itself. The new work for Young Henry’s alcoholic ginger beer got my attention and made me laugh – so on brand. The recent win of Pukka herbal tea plus attention-grabbing work for Felix, Australian Ethical, Cancer Council, and NSW Environmental Protection Agency delivers impact and results.
Paper Moose disrupting a photo shoot
See also: Sparrow’s recent Hot Lists
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Criteria for making the Mediaweek Hot Lists
• New business success
• Current client retention
• Momentum
• Industry acclaim and buzz