The last Mediaweek HOT List for the year. I’ll be taking a break over Christmas /New year, and am back in February for the first 2023 Hot List. It has been a big year with impressive work from many agencies. Although there have been some agencies with repeat appearances, we have in all celebrated the work of 22 different agencies across the year from May onwards.
Although all 22 are worthy, an extra accolade goes to Initiative and The Monkeys who made it to seven out of eight HOT Lists. Not far behind them was Special Group who racked up six appearances.
Sizzling HOT
Media agency: Initiative
What a year with their sizzling hot performance, a brilliant run of new business wins plus heaps of award accolades including the recent induction into the Hall of Good at the UnLtd Big Dream event. Energy Australia joins blue chip wins this year including IAG, Australian Unity, Bank of Queensland, Fitness & Lifestyle Group etc.
Creative Agency: The Monkeys
A true creative powerhouse that continues to win awards and praise for effectiveness. They consistently create provocative ideas for some of Australia’s most respected brands and I love the new Christmas work for Australia Post, Drinkwise, and Supercheap Auto. Plus, the wonderful work for the island nation of Tuvalu shining the spotlight on climate change is excellent.
HOTTEST
Media Agency: Half Dome
Ending a brilliant year with another new business win for GMHBA health insurance. This indie continues to shine along with a raft of new business successes e.g. Ego Pharmaceuticals, Petspiration, MRC, etc. The outstanding leadership team go from strength to strength and was recognised by The Australian as one of the Top 100 Innovators of the Year. Plus, their people and culture initiatives around annual leave and workplace benefits lead the industry.
Creative Agency: The Special Group
A super special year for Special Group, with unprecedented growth with new business, untold award success with the Effie’s etc, and a new office to open in New York. The wonderful work for Uber continues and they uphold a brilliant reputation in Oz, NZ, and now the US.
HOT
Media Agency: This Is Flow
This hot indie has momentum and finishes the year with three wins out of three pitches for GPT Group, Rock Face, and the Experience Co. A bumper new business year with Carnival, King Gee/Hard Yakka, Riverina Dairy etc. Incredible growth, award success, brilliant people, and culture benefits plus a positive investment in training/development will be sure to set This is Flow up for an even hotter year in 2023.
Creative Agency: Ogilvy
One of my favourite creative agencies with an excellent heritage continues to be hot with excellent work that drives client results. Great success at the Effies plus multiple Network of the Year accolades and an Employer of Choice at the Australian Business Awards. The work continues to shine for AAMI, KFC, Coke, Cadbury, Nestle etc.
See also: Sparrow’s 2022 Hot Lists
Doing some good work and kicking goals? We are happy to hear from you – send details to [email protected].
Criteria for making the Mediaweek Hot Lists
• New business success
• Current client retention
• Momentum
• Industry acclaim and buzz