MUMBAI: WPP's operating company Bates Asia agreed to acquire, subject to regulatory approvals, a majority stake in Enterprise Nexus Communications Private Limited.

The new merged entity will be called Bates Enterprise.

 
This latest development continues WPP's strategy of developing its networks in fast growing markets and sectors. In India, the WPP Group includes leading advertising agencies JWT, O&M, Rediffusion DY&R and Grey Worldwide. The merged entity now becomes the fifth WPP agency network in the top 10 in India.
 
 
Under the agreement, Enterprise Nexus founder Mohammed Khan will assume the role of executive chairman while Subhash Kamath will be the CEO of Bates Enterprise.

The Bates Enterprise combine will have offices in all the main metros of India and will offer a complete range of communications services. Apart from the main advertising business, the Bates India group will also include 141 Worldwide for through-the-line marketing services, as well as public relations and exhibitions.

 
 
Commenting on the merger Bates Asia non executive chairman Ranjan Kapur said, 'This is a perfect fit, no conflicts. Perfect management and creative match and a growth in both geographical spread and 360 offerings. I am very bullish on the future of Bates Enterprise, as it will now be called."

Bates Enterprise chairman designate Mohammed Khan says, "The new combined agency will offer a powerful alternative to major advertisers. It's a very important development in what has been a very exciting career."

Kamath says, "It's a great opportunity to create something really fantastic. It's an awesome team, terrific brands, and we're really looking forward to doing some path breaking work for our clients. We're all extremely charged up."