Havas swoops for French firm to boost data strategy

Just hours after Omnicom revealed that data and tech will sit at the heart of its new strategy, rival Havas has bolstered its own operations with the acquisition of a French data consulting and engineering firm with end-to-end expertise in designing, building, and deploying data platforms.

Founded in 2021 by Nicolas Chollet and Mehdi Moreau, Unnest specialises in technology infrastructures to deliver high-value-added projects and “best-in-class” tech solutions.

With teams of experts specialised in data and cloud engineering (Google Cloud Platform, Azure, Snowflake, Amazon Cloud, etc) and AI, the deal is designed to strengthen Havas’ ability to deploy data strategies at scale.

Unnest already serves a portfolio of top-tier clients spanning retail, travel, beauty, automotive, and luxury industries.

The consultancy will sit within Havas Media Network’s global data, technology, and analytics arm, CSA, reinforcing Havas’ commitment to harnessing technology and data as part of its Converged.AI strategy to help brands successfully navigate transformation challenges.

It is claimed the move will help foster strong synergies with CSA Data Consulting, DBi, and TED Consulting by integrating Unnest’s expertise at the heart of the group’s business science solutions, creating a combined team of 120 data experts in France.

Supported by CSA’s global network, these solutions will be rolled out in France and internationally across companies from all sectors.

Havas chairman and CEO Yannick Bollore said: “We are thrilled to welcome Nicolas Chollet, Mehdi Moreau, and the entire Unnest team to the Havas family. Their technological expertise will be a valuable addition to the acceleration of our Converged.AI strategy. They will help drive the adoption of AI solutions across our client base, addressing strategic and operational challenges while maintaining the highest standards of excellence.”

Nicolas Chollet added: “In a rapidly growing data and AI landscape, joining Havas represents a unique opportunity to accelerate our growth and leverage our technological expertise in support of a global vision. We are eager to contribute to the creation of innovative solutions for brands.”