Havas Middle East has made its foray into the Oman market through a majority partnership with Khimji Group. Starting with a 20 percent stake in agencies Asha and Paradigm, the group officially signed in June/July 2016 to formalize the 60 percent stake that has resulted in the integration of the two agencies under the Havas umbrella.
Havad Middle East’s managing director for Abu Dhabi moved to the Muscat office last year to overlook the integration process.
“If you find a strong local partner who has a good portfolio of local clients and you have a cultural match, it’s the best [deal],” says Pierre Soued, managing director of Havas Middle East. “This arrogance of the network in small countries… why?” he adds.
With 40 to 50 employees and an annual turnover of $8 million, the Oman operation is heavily focused on digital – something that has kept it thriving in the tough environment.
