Publicis Groupe chairman and CEO Maurice levy added, "Publicis Groupe is home to two of the most powerful media networks in the world, both of which work in service to many of the world's most dominant brands. Our opportunity is to constantly fortify these separate networks with the strongest competitive advantages, enabling them to serve their clients with unparalleled talent, tools and resources.

"While the two global networks will remain totally independent and continue to focus on providing outstanding service to their clients, the members of Publicis Groupe Media will carefully evaluate and pursue Groupe-level investments and improvements. This will empower each network with greater resources, talent and tools, while also preserving the exclusive and proprietary nature of our clients."

A top priority for PGM is to carefully manage and protect any conflicting assignments. PGM will work with key clients in each market to insure that the steps taken simultaneously will generate measurable client benefits such as a stronger media offering, greater tools and talent in service to client brands, plus a more measurable Return On Investment (ROI).

Publicis Groupe COO Roger Haupt will be at PGM helm. Haupt has emphasised that PGM is not a new company but rather a board that will focus on constantly improving Publicis Groupe's media offering. "What PGM will not do is merge together our global networks. We remain committed to a multiple brand strategy and we intend to fortify the ability of those networks to provide unparalleled service to clients.

"In our pursuit of market strength and greater client benefits, the board will continue to carefully explore opportunities to streamline investments that support the core media product, including non-proprietary data acquisition and technology that is not client-specific. This will ensure that every Starcom MediaVestGroup and ZenithOptimedia asset offers the best available tools and systems."