EHS on alert as E.On calls pitch

Havas EHS is facing a review of its E.On direct marketing account, as the energy firm looks to pool all activity – including its advertising – into a single agency.
EHS has handled the estimated £5m DM business since December 2011, beating off Proximity London in a final shoot-out. E.On had previously worked with a number of agencies, including 20:20, on a project by project basis.
The latest review, being run through ISBA, also includes ad agency DLKW Lowe and, although understood to be statutory, is being used as an opportunity to appoint a single agency to spearhead an integrated strategy. A result is expected in May.
The move follows the appointment of Engine Group in July last year to handle E.On’s digital strategy – including social media, user-experience, CRM, creative and mobile activity – to build and maintain consumer trust.
No single Engine Group agency is working on the business, rather it is being run by an Engine “team”. The group beat off competition from SapientNitro and Dare to land the account.
It is not known whether Engine is part of the integrated pitch but given the breadth of its offering – there are 13 agencies in the group, including Partners Andrews Aldridge, data arm Fuel and ad agency WCRS – it would appear well placed to grab the business.
A spokesman for E.On is quoted as saying: “We continue to have strong and effective working relationships with DLKW Lowe and Havas EHS, and are delighted that both will be part of our pitch process.”