Speculation grows that RBS may look to Scots agencies
Ironically, the banking crash could help save the Scottish advertising industry according to some sources.
It now only aims to sell assets it bought as part of the ABN Amro deal, but is in the process of selling 318 branches south of the border, a portfolio which on its own would be the UK’s sixth largest bank.
Virgin Money, Clydesdale Bank and Santander are amongst the bidders for the network, which is mainly in the north west of England. Initial bids for the branches, which RBS has lumped together under the Williams and Glyn name, are due in tomorrow.
However, the focus on the Scottish market has led many to think RBS may soon look to move some of its advertising and promotional business to Scotland. The bulk of its marketing spend is currently through M&C Saatchi in London.
One source said: “As the Royal continues to focus more on its Scottish roots I think it is inevitable it will look to moving more of its spend back to Scotland. It would make far more sense from a cost control perspective as well.
“Ironically, the collapse of the banking sector may turn out to save the Scottish advertising industry.”
The Scottish advertising sector has been reported to have declined by 80% over the last 20 years.
The Royal Bank of Scotland use to be one of the biggest brands handled in Scotland when it was with Faulds. But it moved south as it developed into one of the world's largest banks.
One agency which has the Royal in its sights is The Leith Agency. Its managing partner was quoted yesterday as saying: “We have various contacts in various institutions, Royal Bank being one of them. You always want to keep them the radar. You want the chance that if they do decide to change you’re in their thoughts.”