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Interpublic Group

Interpublic Group logo

Background

New York-based Interpublic Group, also known as IPG, is one of the world’s largest advertising and public relations holding companies, with offices in over 100 countries.

Its subsidiaries have worked for fossil fuel clients, including ExxonMobil, Saudi Aramco, Shell, Valero, and Phillips 66 in recent years. Weber Shandwick, McCann, UM, FCB, and Carmichael Lynch are several IPG companies with fossil fuel clients.1See “Fossil Fuel Clients” table below.  

Clean Creatives poster calling out IPG subsidiary McCann's work for fossil fuel clients.
Clean Creatives distributed this poster around New York City in September 2023.2“Dear New Yorkers who work at @mccann_mw 🌇 Do those emojis look eerily familiar? We’ll tell you this – orange is not your color. It’s great for that chunky cardigan you love – but not on your skyline. Why was the sky orange? Because fossil fuel companies like @Saudi Aramco, @Copec, and more keep polluting – and McCann still works for them. It’s not your fault. But you can fix it, and we can support you.✉️➡️DM us to learn how,” Instagram post by Clean Creatives, September 20, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/YI79L
Campbell Ewald ad for Valero, 2016
Ad from Campbell Ewald for Valero, 2016.3Campbell Ewald. “Valero – ‘Drive Clean’’,” AdForum, 2016. Archived December 11, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PaqPV

Contract with Valero

In December 2015, Valero named Campbell Ewald as its advertising and public relations agency of record.4Erik Oster. “Valero Energy Corporation Names Campbell Ewald AOR,” AgencySpy, December 9, 2015. Archived October 12, 2017. Archive URL: https://archive.is/f5e6s When Valero announced the partnership, Campbell Ewald President Kevin Wertz told advertising trade publication Agency Spy that “working with the world’s largest independent refiner and one of the biggest renewable fuels producers is very exciting. Valero’s leading ethical practices will help us create some truly purposeful work.”

Many of Valero’s advertising campaigns created while Campbell Ewald was its agency of record positioned the fossil fuel company as a leader in the energy transition.5“Valero – ‘Drive Clean’,” AdForum, 2016. Archived December 11, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PaqPV In 2022, Valero launched the “Right Now” campaign, which focused on the fossil fuel company’s investment in ethanol and diesel from waste feedstocks.6“Right Now: Fried Fuel,” Valero YouTube Account, August 8, 2022. Archived March 13, 2024. Archive URL: https://archive.is/yMeye Valero refers to these fuels as “low carbon fuels.”7 “ESG Report,” Valero, August 2023. Archived October 18, 2023. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog. The campaign continued advertising through the end of 2023 and advertised Valero’s involvement in a carbon capture pipeline.8“Valero TV Spot, ‘Trees’,” iSpotTV, March 31, 2023. Archived January 9, 2024. Archive URL: https://archive.is/cWWgl According to advertising intelligence service MediaRadar, Valero spent more than $2 million on television advertisements for the “Right Now” campaign.

Stance on Climate Change

IPG acknowledges the risk of climate change to its business.9“Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. – Climate Change 2023,” Carbon Disclosure Project, 2023. Archived March 8, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog. In its 2023 report to the Carbon Disclosure Project, IPG said it sees publicizing its “visible commitment to sustainability” as a way to improve its reputation among clients.10“Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. – Climate Change 2023,page 6,” Carbon Disclosure Project, 2023. Archived March 8, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog. 

In September 2022, IPG announced it would review the climate goals of prospective fossil fuel clients before agreeing to new work.11(Press Release). “IPG Takes New Steps in Considering Energy and Fuel Clients,” IPG, September 23, 2022. Archived October 5, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/yrcia IPG also stated that it would not work on messaging campaigns seeking to influence policy to “extend the life of fossil fuels.” 

As of December 2023, IPG held 24 contracts with fossil fuel clients.12See the “Select Fossil Fuel Clients” table.

Funding

In 2022, IPG reported a total revenue of $10.9 billion.13(Press Release). “Interpublic Announces Third Quarter and First Nine Months 2023 Results,” IPG, October 20, 2023. Archived March 13, 2024. Archive URL: https://archive.is/TZexG

Fossil Fuel Clients

YearRegionSubsidiaryClientIncome, If Available/ CampaignCitation
2023IndiaWeber ShandwickCairn Oil & Gas14“Anshita Mishra,” Anshita Mishra LinkedIn Account, 2023. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2023Momentum WorldwideChevron15“Who Does It: Sampson Yimer,” Momentum Worldwide, 2023. Archived June 4, 2023. Archived .png available at DeSmog.
2023McCannCopec16“Copec: Muevo,” McCann Worldgroup, 2023. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PNfN5 17“COPEC – Juegos Panamericanos,” La Asociación Chilena de Publicidad Youtube Account, October 26, 2023.
2023AustraliaInitiativeEnergyAustralia18Ashley Regan. “Initiative wins EnergyAustralia pitch,” Ad News, December 5, 2022. Archived December 5, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/j41kh
2023McCannEquinor19“About Us,” McCann Enterprise, Archived June 2, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/Yk75T
2023UMExxonMobil20“2023 Finalists: Excellence in Integrated Marketing,” Marketing Excellence Awards Singapore, 2023. Archived October 6, 2023. Michael Bürgi. “UM and Magna undergo multiple rounds of layoffs amid client losses,” Digiday, December 4, 2023. Archived December 12, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/ymUjZ
2023USA, UKWeber ShandwickExxonMobil21“ExxonMobil: The Best for Your Boat,” Ads of the World, March 2023. Archived September 22, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/Yod4m
2023EuropeWeber ShandwickIndependent Fuel Suppliers Association (UPEI)22“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, 2023. Archived January 2, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2023IndiaFCBKinnectIndian Oil23“This Holi, Indian Oil invokes sense of purpose & joy,” Exchange 4 Media, March 7, 2023. Archived March 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/IGbDT 24“FCBKinnect,” FCBKinnect, Archived June 4, 2023. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2023AustraliaMedia Brands Content StudioJemena25Darcy Song. “Jemena hands creative account to IPG’s MBCS; stays with Initiative for media,” Mumbrella, January 25, 2023. Archived March 23, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PWykH
2023AustraliaInitiativeJemena26Darcy Song. “Jemena hands creative account to IPG’s MBCS; stays with Initiative for media,” Mumbrella, January 25, 2023. Archived March 23, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PWykH
2023AustraliaIniativeKleenheat27Kim Shaw. “KLEENHEAT LAUNCHES ‘NO SONG AND DANCE’ CAMPAIGN VIA THE BRAND AGENCY,” Campaign Brief, July 10, 2023. Archived December 13, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/hNGYP
2023CanadaInitiativePetroCanada28Justin Crann. “Why McCann is expanding its digital and media teams out west,” Strategy, February 22, 2023. Archived March 7, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/bHgFV
2023CanadaMcCannPetroCanada29Justin Crann. “Why McCann is expanding its digital and media teams out west,” Strategy, February 22, 2023. Archived March 7, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/bHgFV
2023APACIPG MediaBrandsPetronas30Kim Shaw. “MBCS & PETRONAS DELVE INTO CULTURAL DREAMS AND DANCES IN CELEBRATION OF KAAMATAN & GAWAI DAYAK,” Campaign Brief Asia, May 26, 2023. Archived June 4, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/yXgO4
2023USACarmichael LynchPhillips 66Go Go Go31“Conoco TV Spot, ‘Fueling All the Ways You Go,” iSpotTV, November 14, 2023. Archived December 12, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/vttdK
2023South AfricaFCBAfricaSasol32“Our Clients,” FCB Africa. Archived April 5, 2023. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2023Jack MortonSaudi Aramco33“Agency: Jack Morton MENAT,” Campaign Middle East, Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/NdvMy
2023McCann/ FP7Saudi Aramco34“Campaign – Saudi Arabia Report 2023,” Motivate Media Group Issuu Account, May 30, 2023. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2023Ensemble WorldwideShell35“Our Partners,” Ensemble Worldwide, 2023. Archived February 3, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/eZVn7
2023EuropeWeber ShandwickShell36“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, 2023. Archived January 2, 2024. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2023EuropeFCBArtgroupTotalEnergies37“EFFIE TÜRKİYE 2023 – KAZANANLAR,” Effie Awards Turkey, 2023. Archived July 3, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/Fg6Eq
2023USACarmichael LynchXcel Energy38“CL Media,” Carmichael Lynch, 2023. Archived May 29, 2023. Archived .mov available at DeSmog.
2023ArgentinaMcCannYPF39“YPF | Científico,” Mercado McCann YouTube Account, January 6, 2023. Archived April 13, 2023. Archived .mov available at DeSmog.
2022IndiaWeber ShandwickCairn Oil & Gas40“2022 Award Winners,” Public Relations & Communication Association Asia Pacific, 2022. Archived January 29, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/Xt6Ro
2022Momentum WorldwideChevron41“Come by the @Chevron Fan Energy HQ and show us what your energy can do!” @Chevron_Golf X Account, April 2, 2022. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/gbdfu “Fan Energy HQ,” Wildlife, Archived December 14, 2023. Archived .mov available at DeSmog.
2022McCannCopec42“COPEC Lo último de @eldiegoruiz para @mccann.santiago,” Cueca Films Instagram Account, August 23, 2022. Archived December 14, 2023. Archived .png available at DeSmog.
2022AustraliaInitiativeEnergyAustralia43Ashley Regan. “Initiative wins EnergyAustralia pitch,” Ad News, December 5, 2022. Archived December 5, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/j41kh
2022BrazilMcCannEquinor44“Neste ano, nossa árvore foi decorada com bolas estampadas com as marcas dos nossos clientes,” WMcCann Brasil Instagram Account, December 23, 2022. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/MijFK
2022UMExxonMobil45“Shortlist for the Digital Media Awards 2023 released,” Campaign Asia, April 4, 2023. Archived April 5, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/GQHKA
2022Weber ShandwickExxonMobil46Weber Shandwick. “Email Nurture Program Generates Qualified Leads Across 3 Sectors,” Weber Shandwick Medium Account, January 14, 2022. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/n7Vgo
2022EuropeWeber ShandwickIndependent Fuel Suppliers Association (UPEI)50,000€ – 99,999€47“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, 2023. Archived January 2, 2024. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2022AustraliaInitiativeJemena48Darcy Song. “Jemena hands creative account to IPG’s MBCS; stays with Initiative for media,” Mumbrella, January 25, 2023. Archived March 23, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PWykH
2022AustraliaInitiativeKleenheat49Ricki Green. “KLEENHEAT APPOINTS INITIATIVE PERTH AS MEDIA AGENCY FOLLOWING A SELECTION PROCESS,” Campaign Brief, March 10, 2022. Archived March 29, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/f3Vsw
2022CanadaMcCannPetroCanada50David Brown. “Why McCann made a 24-hour documentary,” The Message, November 23, 2022. Archived December 15, 2023. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2022APACIPG MediaBrandsPetronas51Kim Shaw. “ENSEMBLE WORLDWIDE MALAYSIA CREATES TRIBUTE TO MALAYSIANS IN ORIGINAL DRAMA SERIES FOR PETRONAS,” Campaign Brief, February 14, 2022. Archived March 10, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/IjNZ4
2022USACarmichael Lynch RelatePhillips 6652[Press Release]. “Phillips 66® Honors Teachers as Part of the Big 12 Basketball Championships,” Phillips 66, March 11, 2022. Archived March 12, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/E2lEv
2022EuropeWeber ShandwickRepsol50,000€ – 99,999€53“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, 2023. Archived January 2, 2024. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2022Jack MortonSaudi Aramco54“Jack Morton Expands MENAT Operations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with Key Leadership Hires,” Little Black Book, October 11, 2022. Archived November 11, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/aiTni
2022McCann Relationship MarketingSaudi Aramco55“Charles Eddy joins MRM Middle East, North Africa & Turkey as general manager,” Campaign Middle East, March 4, 2022. Archived March 7, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/TOU8h
2022Ensemble WorldwideShell56“Our Partners,” Ensemble Worldwide, Archived September 17, 2022. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2022EuropeWeber ShandwickShell50,000€ – 99,999€57“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, 2023. Archived January 2, 2024. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2022USACampbell EwaldValero58Brian Kahn. “Big Oil’s New Ad Campaign Is ‘One of the Creepiest’ It’s Ever Made,” Gizmodo, January 27, 2022. Archived Febraury 1, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/UnmBI
2022USACamichael LynchXcel Energy59“Xcel Energy Selects Carmichael Lynch As Agency of Record,” Carmichael Lynch, Cision PR Newswire, April 8, 2019. Archived January 7, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/CEGSm
2022ArgentinaMcCannYPF60“MERCADO MCCANN CELEBRA CON IMPULSO LOS 100 AÑOS DE YPF,” Latin Spots, January 27, 2022. Archived December 18, 2023. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2021BrazilMRM BrasilBR Distribuidora61“Unidade da McCann Worldgroup, torna-se MRM Brasil,” AdNews, April 5, 2021. Archived April 11, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.is/cXcYA
2021Momentum WorldwideChevron62“Who we do it with,” Momentum Worldwide, Archived March 2, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/dNvHB
2021EuropeWeber ShandwickEni63“WEBER SHANDWICK ID CARD,” Association of Accredited Public Policy Advocates to the European Union, May 5, 2021. Archived May 13, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.is/ebvkK
2021BrazilMcCannEquinor64“Equinor: Two Decades of Operation in Brazil,” WMcCann, September 27, 2021. Archived January 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/LZV9f
2021UMExxonMobil65[Press Release]. “UM Named Media Agency of Record for NYC & Company ‘It’s Time for New York City’,” PR Newswire, June 24, 2021. Archived July 3, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/bYZUn
2021Weber ShandwickExxonMobil66Weber Shandwick. “Email Nurture Program Generates Qualified Leads Across 3 Sectors,” Weber Shandwick Medium Account, January 14, 2022. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/n7Vgo
2021EuropeWeber ShandwickIndependent Fuel Suppliers Association (UPEI)25,000€ – 49,999€67“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts.eu, August 30, 2022. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2021AustraliaInitiativeJemena68Darcy Song. “Jemena hands creative account to IPG’s MBCS; stays with Initiative for media,” Mumbrella, January 25, 2023. Archived March 23, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PWykH
2021EuropeWeber ShandwickNeste10,000€ – 24,999€69“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts.eu, August 30, 2022. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2021CanadaMcCannPetroCanada70David Brown. “Why Petro-Canada is celebrating coaches for the Olympics,” The Message, August 4, 2021. Archived September 25, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/qxlVn
2021APACIPG MediaBrandsPetronas71“Petronas Campaign in Malaysia Emphasizes a Message of Hope and Joy for Merdeka and Malaysia Day,” Branding in Asia, September 3, 2021. Archived October 24, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/2RXBJ
2021USACarmichael Lynch RelatePhillips 6672“Carmichael Lynch Relate: Client List,” PRovoke Media, 2021. Archived December 12, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/8Wmnn
2021EuropeWeber ShandwickRepsol50,000€ – 99,999€73“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts.eu, August 30, 2022. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2021McCannSaudi Aramco74Ishwari Khatu. “Marketing Game Changer 2022: Aramco’s Kirk Collingwood,” Campaign Middle East, December 20, 2022. Archived December 21, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/An1QT
2021EuropeWeber ShandwickShell50,000€ – 99,999€75“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts.eu, August 30, 2022. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2021EuropeWeber ShandwickTotalEnergies76“WEBER SHANDWICK ID CARD,” Association of Accredited Public Policy Advocates to the European Union, May 5, 2021. Archived May 13, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.is/ebvkK
2021USACampbell EwaldValero77Brian Kahn. “Big Oil’s New Ad Campaign Is ‘One of the Creepiest’ It’s Ever Made,” Gizmodo, January 27, 2022. Archived Febraury 1, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/UnmBI
2021USACarmichael LynchXcel Energy78“Xcel Energy – Carbon Free – Energy is Everything,” AdForum, 2021. Archived December 12, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/rpbXE
2021ArgentinaMcCannYPF79“YPF Luz | Generación,” Mercado McCann Youtube Account, June 25, 2021. Archived April 13, 2023.
2020EuropeWeber ShandwickAmerican Chemistry Council10,000€ – 24,999€80“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, September 10, 2021. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2020BrazilMRM BrasilBR Distribuidora81“E/OU-MRM conquista conta digital da BR Distribuidora,” ABC da Comunicacao, July 14, 2020. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/Bj6ak
2020IndiaWeber ShandwickCairn Oil & Gas82“Kaleido Awards ’20 Winners,” Brand Equity, 2020. Archived December 4, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/pL6pT
2020Momentum WorldwideChevron83“Who we do it with,” Momentum Worldwide, Archived October 28, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/MXg0P
2020McCannCopec84“Pese a la crisis chilena, McCann Santiago cerró positivamente el año,” Insider, January 15, 2020. Archived August 5, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/SVAn1
2020BrazilMcCannEquinor85“Programacao: Márcio Borges – WMcCann /Brasil,” Univates, March 2, 2020. Archived September 20, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/ObCXj
2020IPG MediaBrandsExxonMobil86“UM’S ARIELLE GARCIA: PRIVACY MUST BECOME A BUSINESS IMPERATIVE,” IPG MediaBrands, July 30, 2020. Archived June 6, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/gUZOJ
2020UMExxonMobil87“Exxon Mobil Rewards+ App TV Spot, ‘Your Next Fill Up’,” iSpotTV, August 8, 2020. Archived September 20, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/XCAkY
2020Weber ShandwickExxonMobil88Weber Shandwick. “Email Nurture Program Generates Qualified Leads Across 3 Sectors,” Weber Shandwick Medium Account, January 14, 2022. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/n7Vgo
2020EuropeWeber ShandwickIndependent Fuel Suppliers Association (UPEI)25,000€ – 49,999€89“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, September 10, 2021. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2020AustraliaInitiativeJemena90Darcy Song. “Jemena hands creative account to IPG’s MBCS; stays with Initiative for media,” Mumbrella, January 25, 2023. Archived March 23, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PWykH
2020EuropeWeber ShandwickNeste10,000€ – 24,999€91“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, September 10, 2021. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2020APACIPG MediaBrandsPetronas92“Petronas: Bao Bei by IPG Mediabrands,” The Drum, January 2020. Archived January 21, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/55e26
2020USACarmichael Lynch RelatePhillips 6693“Despite Changing Plans and Safety Concerns, Conoco® Survey Finds That Americans Continue Taking To The Road Amid Coronavirus Pandemic,” Conoco, September 2, 2020. Archived September 16, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/GfZNn
2020EuropeWeber ShandwickRepsol50,000€ – 99,999€94“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, September 10, 2021. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2020McCannSaudi Aramco95Ishwari Khatu. “Marketing Game Changer 2022: Aramco’s Kirk Collingwood,” Campaign Middle East, December 20, 2022. Archived December 21, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/An1QT
2020Ensemble WorldwideShell96“Our Partners,” Ensemble Worldwide, Archived April 11, 2020. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2020EuropeWeber ShandwickShell50,000€ – 99,999€97“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, September 10, 2021. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2020USACampbell EwaldValero98“Planning & Buying Awards,” MediaPost, February 5, 2021. Archived December 11, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.is/IOM4N
2020USACarmichael LynchXcel Energy99“Xcel Energy Selects Carmichael Lynch As Agency of Record,” Carmichael Lynch, Cision PR Newswire, April 8, 2019. Archived January 7, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/CEGSm
2020ArgentinaMcCannYPF100“FINALISTAS Y GANADORES – EL OJO FILM 2020,” El Ojo de Iberoamerica, 2020. Archived June 6, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/SShmp
2020EuropeWeber ShandwickZero Emissions Platform25,000€ – 49,999€101“Weber Shandwick,” LobbyFacts.eu, September 10, 2021. Archived January 3, 2024. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2019USAWeber ShandwickAmerican Chemistry Council$2,069,759.00102“Form 990, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax: American Chemistry Council,” Internal Revenue Service, November 11, 2020. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2019BrazilMcCannEquinor103“Equinor,” Joanna Peixinho, 2019. Archived November 1, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/MxRlL
2019UMExxonMobil104“Exxon Mobil TV Spot, ‘Algae Potential’,” iSpotTV, October 19, 2019. Archived December 2, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/pm0eO
2019Weber ShandwickExxonMobil105Weber Shandwick. “Email Nurture Program Generates Qualified Leads Across 3 Sectors,” Weber Shandwick Medium Account, January 14, 2022. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/n7Vgo
2019AustraliaInitiativeJemena106Darcy Song. “Jemena hands creative account to IPG’s MBCS; stays with Initiative for media,” Mumbrella, January 25, 2023. Archived March 23, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PWykH
2019CanadaMcCannPetroCanada107“Our Clients,” McCann WorldGroup Canada, Archived April 10, 2019. Archive URL: https://archive.is/F2Tkc
2019APACIPG MediaBrandsPetronas108“IPG Mediabrands to create specialised unit to service PETRONAS,” Marketing Interactive, January 24, 2019. Archived September 25, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.is/6IsEU
2019USACarmichael Lynch RelatePhillips 66109Doug Zanger. “Conoco’s 47-Minute Lo-Fi Mix Will Make You Fall in Love With Audio All Over Again,” Adweek, October 21, 2019. Archived October 22, 2019. Archive URL: https://archive.is/cJSSX
2019South AfricaFCB JoburgSasol110“FCB Joburg’s #ThisIsGlugGlug ad for Sasol takes poll position on best liked ads list,” Advertising Company News South Africa, August 14, 2020. Archived April 27, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.is/31htj
2019McCannSaudi Aramco111Michael Ives. “‘Real Impact’ – Across the Kingdom and Around the Globe — Aramco’s First Branding Campaign,” The Arabian Sun reposted on Aramco Expats, October 30, 2019. Archived December 15, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/DLyyZ
2019Ensemble WorldwideShell112“Our Partners,” Ensemble Worldwide, Archived September 26, 2019. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2019EuropeWeber ShandwickShell50,000€ – 99,999€113“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts EU, September 4, 2020. Archived March 20, 2023. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2019USACarmichael LynchXcel Energy114“Together,” AdForum, 2019. Archived December 12, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/rpbXE
2019EuropeWeber ShandwickZero Emissions Platform100,000€ – 199,999€115“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts EU, September 4, 2020. Archived March 20, 2023. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2018USAWeber ShandwickAmerican Chemistry Council$940,747.00116“Form 990, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax: American Chemistry Council,” Internal Revenue Service, November 11, 2020. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2018Momentum WorldwideChevron117[Press Release]. “Momentum Worldwide Named A “Standout Agency” By Ad Age For The Second Consecutive Year,” Momentum Worldwide, February 19, 2018. Archived November 9, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/0jRp1
2018InitiativeCopec118“2018 FINALIST SUSTAINED SUCCESS,” The Effie Awards, 2018. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/rf7lC
2018BrazilMcCannEquinor119Alexandre Zaghi Lemos. “See the agencies that grew the most in media buying,” Meio e Mensagem February 18, 2019. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/m1AON
2018UMExxonMobil120“Exxon Mobil TV Spot, ‘Unexpected Energy’,” iSpotTV, July 14, 2018. Archived April 23, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/5eh12
2018Weber ShandwickExxonMobil121Weber Shandwick. “Email Nurture Program Generates Qualified Leads Across 3 Sectors,” Weber Shandwick Medium Account, January 14, 2022. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/n7Vgo
2018AustraliaInitiativeJemena122Darcy Song. “Jemena hands creative account to IPG’s MBCS; stays with Initiative for media,” Mumbrella, January 25, 2023. Archived March 23, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PWykH
2018CanadaMcCannPetroCanada123Justin Dallaire. “Petro-Canada invites you to ‘Live by the Leaf’,” Strategy, August 10, 2018. Archived July 7, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/0vZ2n
2018USACarmichael Lynch RelatePhillips 66Choose Go124“Phillips 66: Live to the Full by Carmichael Lynch,” The Drum, January 2018. Archived May 7, 2018. Archive URL: https://archive.is/lIoAj
2018South AfricaFCB JoburgSasol125“FCB Africa to power the Sasol brand,” Amplifier, December 8, 2017. Archived March 23, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/La9eV
2018Ensemble WorldwideShell126Lynchy. “UM MALAYSIA, SOCIETY AND ENSEMBLE WORLDWIDE WIN 8 AWARDS AT THE MDA’S ALL-NEW D AWARDS,” Campaign Brief Asia, April 10, 2018. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/mBoQy
2018USACampbell EwaldValero127“Valero: ‘Every Mile,‘” Durango Effect Youtube Account, March 14, 2018. Archived December 11, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/fnNsK
2018EuropeWeber ShandwickZero Emissions Platform10,000€ – 24,999€128“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts EU, September 5, 2019. Archived January 4, 2023. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2017Momentum WorldwideChevron129Patrick Coffee. “Chevron to Review Its Global Media Business After 16 Years With WPP,” Adweek, January 18, 2019. Archived February 9, 2019. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2017InitiativeCopec130“2017 BRONZE COMMERCE & SHOPPER: CATEGORY/AISLE EVOLUTION,” The Effie Awards, 2017. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/ElJ9y
2017Momentum McCannExxonMobil131“Campeones del FIP 2017,” FIP Festival, 2017. Archived September 14, 2019. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/YrlPw
2017UMExxonMobil132“Exxon Mobil TV Spot, ‘America’s Energy’,” iSpotTV, November 8, 2017. Archived December 7, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.is/I9sq2
2017Weber ShandwickExxonMobil133“ExxonMobil Puts Official Sports Partnerships in Fast Lane to Support New Product Launch,” Business Wire, March 10, 2017. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/feJH9
2017AustraliaInitiativeJemenaNatural Gas Campaign134Vivienne Kelly. “Initiative retains Jemena media account after review,” Mumbrella, December 21, 2017. Archived January 25, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PS1ov
2017USACarmichael Lynch RelatePhillips 66135Patrick Coffee. “Carmichael Lynch to Help Oil Giant Phillips 66 Navigate ‘Changing Consumer Behaviors’,” Adweek, March 13, 2017. Archived September 19, 2017. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2017McCann/ FP7Saudi Aramco136“Saudi Aramco releases Energo, a multi-game platform designed & developed by Eurisko Mobility in collaboration with FP7,” Eurisko Mobility, January 30, 2017. Archived June 27, 2017. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/QmryK
2017Ensemble WorldwideShell137Lynchy. “TBWA\SINGAPORE + ENSEMBLE WORLDWIDE MALAYSIA SHORTLISTED IN WARC AWARDS FOR SOCIAL STRATEGY,” Campaign Brief Asia, June 2, 2017. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/APkCk
2017USACampbell EwaldValero138“Valero – Life Between Fill-Ups,” Former Co. Vimeo Account, 2017. Archived December 11, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/8iA2X
2017EuropeWeber ShandwickZero Emissions Platform50,000€ – 99,999€139“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts EU, September 5, 2018. Archived January 4, 2023. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2016UMExxonMobil140Patrick Coffee. “We Hear: ExxonMobil Moves a Portion of Its Brand Work from DDB to BBDO,” Agency Spy, December 15, 2016. Archived February 15, 2018. Archive URL: https://archive.is/hLZDs
2016Weber ShandwickExxonMobil141“NBA and ExxonMobil Announce New Multiyear Partnership in U.S. and China,” Business Wire, October 5, 2016. Archived November 29, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/FzNFT
2016AustraliaInitiativeJemenaNatural Gas Campaign142Ricki Green. “JEMENA PICKS INITIATIVE AS ITS MEDIA AGENCY PARTNER FOLLOWING A COMPETITIVE PITCH PROCESS,” Campaign Brief, December 15, 2015. Archived December 13, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/rgAwK
2016Ensemble WorldwideShell143“Our Partners,” Ensemble Worldwide, Archived October 25, 2016. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2016USACampbell EwaldValero144Erik Oster. “Valero Energy Corporation Names Campbell Ewald AOR,” AgencySpy, December 9, 2015. Archived October 12, 2017. Archive URL: https://archive.is/f5e6s
2016EuropeWeber ShandwickZero Emissions Platform100,000€ – 199,999€145“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts EU, September 12, 2017. Archived January 4, 2023. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2015UKMcCannEquinor146James Smith. “Statoil hires McCann for UK marketing task,” Campaign US, August 25, 2015. Archived December 15, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/93WTx
2015UMExxonMobil147Mark Renfree. “How Agencies Helped ExxonMobil Excite Young Audiences About Engineering,” PR News, July 31, 2015. Archived February 8, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/5pcMh
2015AustraliaInitiativeJemena148Ricki Green. “JEMENA PICKS INITIATIVE AS ITS MEDIA AGENCY PARTNER FOLLOWING A COMPETITIVE PITCH PROCESS,” Campaign Brief, December 15, 2015. Archived December 13, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/rgAwK
2015ArgentinaMcCannYPF149“Come to go, by Mercado McCann to YPF,” McCann Worldgroup YouTube Account, October 5, 2015. Archived March 23, 2024. Archived .mov available at DeSmog.
2015EuropeWeber ShandwickZero Emissions Platform200,000€ – 299,999€150“Weber Shandwick,” Lobby Facts EU, August 31, 2016. Archived March 24, 2023. Archived .xlsx available at DeSmog.
2014UKMcCannEquinor151James Smith. “Statoil hires McCann for UK marketing task,” Campaign US, August 25, 2015. Archived December 15, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/93WTx
2014UMExxonMobil152“Exxon Mobil TV Spot, ‘Enabling Everyday Progress: Egg’,” iSpotTV, November 24, 2014. Archived October 16, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/5eh12
2014AustraliaInitiativeJemena153Ricki Green. “JEMENA PICKS INITIATIVE AS ITS MEDIA AGENCY PARTNER FOLLOWING A COMPETITIVE PITCH PROCESS,” Campaign Brief, December 15, 2015. Archived December 13, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/rgAwK
2014Jack MortonSaudi Aramco154“SILVER WINNER: FILM/VIDEO — NON-BROADCAST PRODUCTIONS – USE OF ANIMATION,” The Telly Awards, 2014. Archived December 14, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/CoSbY
2013UKMcCannEquinor155“Letters of intent to McCann Worldgroup and Try/Apt,” Equinor, April 15, 2013. Archived May 30, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/cwWQI
2013UMExxonMobil156“Exxon Mobil TV Spot, ‘Operating Room’,” iSpotTV, November 28, 2013. Archived November 1, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/QRwUM
2013Weber ShandwickExxonMobil157“2014 CSR Awards,” PR News, 2014. Archived February 1, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/34xcJ
2012UKMcCannEquinorEnergy Realities campaign158“Campaign Media Awards 2012 – Best Financial, Corporate and Utilities Campaign: Statoil,” Campaign US, November 22, 2012. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2012UMExxonMobil159[Press Release]. “UM WINS GLOBAL ACCOUNT FOR EXXONMOBIL,” UM, April 20, 2012. Archived September 22, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/0VabD
2012Weber ShandwickExxonMobil160“Weber Shandwick: Contently Case Studies,” Contently, 2013. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/5yKDg
2012Jack MortonSaudi Aramco161“Saudi Aramco,” Plus One Vimeo Account, October 22, 2012. Archived December 1, 2012. Archive URL: https://archive.is/NGt7D
2011GlobalMcCannEquinor£2,000,000.00162Oliver Luft. “UM London wins Statoil UK activity,” Campaign UK, June 8, 2011. Archived December 15, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/zmMLr
2011Weber ShandwickExxonMobil163Benjamin Li. “Weber Shandwick brings in senior leader, Natalie Lowe, as VP,” Campaign Asia, November 1, 2011. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/DIGMh
2010Weber ShandwickExxonMobil164Michael Bush. “WEBER SHANDWICK IS NO. 9 ON AD AGE’S AGENCY A-LIST,” Ad Age, January 25, 2010. Archived April 12, 2019. Archive URL: https://archive.is/S9wPt
2009Weber ShandwickExxonMobil165“ExxonMobil: LEWIS HAMILTON’S SUPERCIRCUIT,” Ads Spot, February 2009. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/FC2Hp
2007Weber ShandwickExxonMobil166“ExxonMobil Unveils New Website For Mobil Industrial Lubricants,” ExxonMobil, September 18, 2007. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/yHosD
2006Weber ShandwickExxonMobil167Michael Bush. “Exxon buoys PR amid oil industry backlash,” PR Week, February 3, 2006. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2005Weber ShandwickExxonMobil168Michael Bush. “Exxon buoys PR amid oil industry backlash,” PR Week, February 3, 2006. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog.
2004Weber ShandwickExxonMobil169“Greening ExxonMobil,” O’Dwyer’s PR Daily, republished by the Center for Media and Democracy’s PR Watch, September 8, 2004. Archived August 28, 2023. Archive URL: http://archive.today/kb6aK
2003Weber ShandwickExxonMobil170Paul Holmes. “Exxon Mobil Lubricants Taps Weber Shandwick,” PRovoke Media, February 10, 2003. Archived December 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/VjqqC

Board of Directors

Actions

November 16, 2023

DeSmog reported that McCann was repitching itself to handle fossil fuel giant Aramco’s advertising work. McCann was already working for Aramco under contracts set to expire in 2024. One IPG employee told DeSmog there was “growing unease” among employees about the company’s work for Aramco.

September 23, 2022

IPG announced that it would review the climate policies of prospective fossil fuel clients before agreeing to new work with these clients.171 (Press Release). “IPG Takes New Steps in Considering Energy and Fuel Clients,” IPG, September 23, 2022. Archived October 5, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/yrcia IPG acknowledged that several of its subsidiaries currently worked for fossil fuel clients and that previous work failed to meet its new standards, including IPG’s commitment not to create public relations and advertising campaigns seeking to influence public policy in favor of fossil fuels.

September 19, 2022

Clean Creatives, a campaign to dissuade advertising and public relations firms from working with fossil fuel clients, featured IPG’s work for Saudi Aramco and other oil and gas companies on its annual “F List.”172“REPORT: The F-List 2022 Comprehensively Exposes Over 230 Ad and PR Agencies Working with Fossil Fuel Industry,” Clean Creatives, September 19, 2022. Archived December 22, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/Iw8KJ 

As part of the 2022 F List, Clean Creatives published a job posting from Well7, an IPG Mediabrands communications firm. Clean Creatives alleged that this subsidiary was created primarily to work for Aramco.173 Evie Barrett. “UN boss slams agencies for ‘raking in billions’ by ‘enabling’ fossil-fuel companies,” Campaign, September 23, 2022. Archived November 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/iUKw8

The firm’s name refers to the first well that struck oil in Saudi Arabia in 1938. IPG did not respond to Clean Creatives’ allegation. 

December 2021

Valero launched the “Essential for Life” campaign, featuring video ads showing how fossil fuels were essential to keeping a child in the NICU alive.174Brian Kahn. “The Nightmare Valero Site Claiming Fossil Fuels Are ‘Essential for Life’,” Gizmodo, January 28, 2022. Archived March 28, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/PtIFM The ads directed viewers to the website valeroforlife.com, which was registered to Campbell Ewald.  

Campbell Ewald created a website for Valero.
Screenshot of valeroforlife.com, a website registered to IPG subsidiary Campbell Ewald

July 2021

Carmichael Lynch launched the advertising campaign “Energy is Everything” for Xcel Energy,175“Xcel Energy: Energy is Everything,” Carmichael Lynch, 2021. Archived August 12, 2022. Archived screen recording available at DeSmog. a Minnesota-based176“Investor Relations,” Xcel Energy, Archived February 19, 2024. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/ZV3cT gas and electric utility that serves Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin.177“Communities Served,” Xcel Energy, Archived March 28, 2024. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/6yhhB Carmichael Lynch cultivated Xcel Energy’s climate-friendly image with paid posts on social media advertising Xcel’s announcement that it would rely on completely carbon-free energy by 2050.178“Xcel Energy: Energy is Everything,” Carmichael Lynch, 2021. Archived August 12, 2022. Archived screen recording available at DeSmog. Around the same time the “Energy is Everything” ads were playing on Facebook and Instagram,179 Xcel Energy. “Energy. It’s the sun, the wind and you. It’s a unifying force that will get us to a carbon-free future. You. Us. Together.,” Meta Ad Library, December 14, 2021. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog. Xcel Energy began funding Coloradans for Energy Access. This gas industry front group spread misinformation about electrification’s costs and supported expanded natural gas production. 

When Denver’s Channel 9 News asked Xcel why it advertises when many of its customers only have one option for an electric utility, Xcel Energy confirmed that some of its advertisements were paid for by consumer electricity bills.180Marshall Zelinger. “Why is Xcel Energy advertising to a captive audience?” Channel 9 News, February 3, 2023. Archived December 13, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/RnAmT

Carmichael Lynch's ad for Xcel Energy, 2022
Carmichael Lynch created this ad for Xcel Energy as part of the “Energy is Everything” campaign. Source: Xcel Energy YouTube account181“This is How the Future is Made :30,” Xcel Energy YouTube Account, March 21, 2022. Archive URL: https://archive.is/9oufE

2020

Campbell Ewald launched the “Rescue Relay” campaign for Valero, which featured advertisements showing the fossil fuel company’s work to rescue dogs from kill shelters.182“Congrats to our fantastic CE Media team for winning a 2020 MediaPost Creative Media Award for their work on the Valero EnergyRescue Relay campaign,” Campbell Ewald Facebook Account, February 5, 2021. Archived copy available at DeSmog. Campbell Ewald copywriter and creative director David Bierman183“About,” David Bierman, 2020. Archived January 28, 2020. Archive URL: https://archive.is/nY0vZ described the campaign’s objective on his website: “Most people don’t get the warm fuzzies about an oil company. We tried to change that by aligning Valero with a nationwide network of rescue relays who shepherd at-risk dogs from kill shelters to their forever homes.”184David Bierman. “Valero Rescue Relay,” DavidBierman.com, 2020. Archived December 11, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/QCbHE 

One video ad created by Campbell Ewald for the “Rescue Relay” campaign opened with a video of a dog and a voiceover that said, “Ducky is scheduled to be euthanized today.”185David Bierman. “Valero Rescue Relay,” DavidBierman.com, 2020. Archived December 11, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/QCbHE Instead, the dog is rescued, and the video ends with “Valero provides top-tier quality fuel to rescue relay organizations that help dogs like Ducky.” Campbell Ewald ran “Rescue Relay” advertisements on social media, and its video ads received over 32 million views.186David Bierman. “Valero Rescue Relay,” DavidBierman.com, 2020. Archived December 11, 2023. Archive URL: https://archive.is/QCbHE Campbell Ewald won a MediaPost award for the campaign.187“Planning & Buying Awards,” MediaPost, February 5, 2021. Archived December 11, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.is/IOM4N

Valero Rescue relay ad created by Campbell Ewald
Valero Rescue relay ad created by Campbell Ewald
Valero Rescue relay ad created by Campbell Ewald
Source: @ValeroEnergy X Account, July 20, 2020

2018 

Carmichael Lynch Relate launched “Choose Go” for Conoco, a campaign to improve the brand’s image with 18 to 24-year-olds.188“Conoco: Choose Go by Carmichael Lynch,” The Drum, May 2018. Archived January 4, 2024. Archive URL: https://archive.is/vGH4X Carmichael Lynch Relate wrote on its website that the campaign’s digital outreach included memes and video games targeted toward young consumers. Carmichael Lynch Relate also reported that “Conoco sold 40 million more gallons of gas in the campaign’s first five months compared to the year prior.” This line was removed189Kathryn Lundstrom & Emmy Liederman. “Turning Agencies Against Fossil Fuel Brands Harkens Back to the Tobacco Wars,” AdWeek, October 25, 2021. Archived .pdf available at DeSmog. from the Carmichael Lynch Relate website after environmental journalist Molly Taft mentioned it in a 2021 article.190Molly Taft. “I Hate That Conoco Is So Good at Social Media,” Gizmodo, July 5, 2021. Archived July 5, 2021. Archive URL: https://archive.ph/DRdR6

December 2015

Valero named IPG subsidiary Campbell Ewald as its agency of record.191Erik Oster. “Valero Energy Corporation Names Campbell Ewald AOR,” AgencySpy, December 9, 2015. Archived October 12, 2017. Archive URL: https://archive.is/f5e6s According to advertising trade publication Agency Spy, Valero was spending $10 to $15 million annually when it hired Campbell Ewald to handle media buying, advertising, and branding.

Subsidiary: Weber Shandwick

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