Audi of America Inc. Selects New Advertising Agency of Record

Source: Audi of America

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., December 20, 2006 — Audi of America, Inc., today announced the selection of an advertising agency of record (AOR) following a four month review process. Venables Bell & Partners, based in San Francisco will be responsible for all aspects of Audi’s national and regional advertising and promotions.

After the initial review began in August 2006, three agencies eventually vied for the business following the voluntary withdrawal of one firm.

“The finalists each presented strong, creative concepts,” said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president in charge of Audi of America. “However, Venables understanding of the powerful potential of Audi in the U.S. market, their conviction that Audi must employ non-traditional solutions and their ideas on how to connect the brand with the American consumer made it clear they are the right advertising and marketing partner.”

The immediate tasks include transitioning work to the new agency, introducing Venables to the dealers and refining a campaign. According to de Nysschen, Audi does not want to rollout of a new campaign too soon, and will launch the first campaign with the introduction of the all-new TT coupe and roadster vehicles during the first half of 2007.

“Audi will launch three significant products during 2007 and our sales are on a record-setting pace,” said de Nysschen. “We felt that Venables presented the best package to push the brand to record heights in the US market.”

“We are absolutely thrilled,” said Paul Venables, Founder, Co-Creative Director, Venables Bell & Partners. “Not only will we be partnering with a world-class luxury automotive company, but we feel it’s one that reflects our own values and spirit.”

Venables Bell & Partners is an independent agency founded in 2001 by industry veterans Robert Molineaux, Paul Venables and Greg Bell. The agency is headquartered in San Francisco, Calif., and billed more than $160 million during calendar year 2006.

ABOUT AUDI OF AMERICA

Audi of America, Inc., is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. Audi’s history in America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Today, a network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the Audi A3 premium compact; the sporty A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high-revving RS 4 sports sedan; the design-leading A6 sedan and Avant; the all-new Audi Q7 performance SUV; and the all-aluminum Audi A8; and the award-winning TT Coupe and Roadster.