CommBank-owned Bankwest is reviewing its agency roster, inviting holding groups to pitch for creative capabilities.
WPP, Publicis, Omnicom, Havas and M&C Saatchi are thought to be participating in the review, putting forward a solution which could include several different agencies.
AdNews understands the decision to review its relationship with Host came prior to the news it was merging with Havas.
Bankwest GM of customer communications and brand Nichole Banks confirmed the review to AdNews.
"While Host (Host/Havas) have been our primary creative agency of record for over a decade, and remain a valued partner to Bankwest, we work with a number of partners alongside them.
"We are currently reviewing the broader ‘holding group’ capabilities offered by a handful of them (including Havas) as we review our ever-expanding suite of marketing needs and plan the optimal operating model for our business."
Despite confirming its looking at its agency set-up, Banks says there is not a creative pitch process underway.
The review will not impact Bankwest's relationship with its media agency Ikon.
With Host/Havas becoming one agency, the new entity could be a front winner in picking up more capabilities on the account, considering Bankwest's long-standing relationship with Host.
M&C Saatchi could also have the upper hand as they work with Bankwest's parent company CommBank.
Bankwest first appointed Host in 2007, last re-inking that deal in 2010. The agency was behind some of Bankwest's best known advertising, including its 2015 ad starring John McEnroe and its 2010 'Happy Banking' campaign.
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