The Top Advertising Agencies in History: Icons of Creativity and Influence
Exploring the Greatest Advertising Agencies and Their Iconic Campaigns in History
Advertising has shaped culture, commerce, and communication for over a century, with legendary agencies driving groundbreaking campaigns that left indelible marks on the world. From Madison Avenue’s golden age to today’s global powerhouses, these agencies have not only redefined how brands connect with audiences but also revolutionized creativity and storytelling.
Here, we explore the top advertising agencies in history, their most iconic work, and where they stand today. This definitive list celebrates the brilliance of agencies that have shaped advertising as we know it.
1. J. Walter Thompson (JWT)
The Legacy:
Founded in 1864 as Carlton & Smith, JWT is one of the world’s oldest ad agencies. James Walter Thompson purchased the company in 1878, transforming it into a global creative powerhouse. JWT introduced innovative practices such as copywriting and full-service advertising.
Iconic Work:
Woodbury Soap: JWT created the first-ever celebrity endorsement ad campaign in the early 20th century.
Kodak: JWT’s work with Kodak popularized the concept of the "Kodak moment."
Where Are They Today?
Now part of Wunderman Thompson, a subsidiary of WPP, JWT continues to deliver innovative campaigns.
2. Leo Burnett
The Legacy:
Founded in Chicago in 1935, Leo Burnett believed in human-centric advertising, focusing on relatable storytelling. The agency introduced “inherent drama” into its work, showcasing the emotional core of brands.
Iconic Work:
Tony the Tiger for Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes
The Marlboro Man, one of the most enduring advertising icons.
Pillsbury Doughboy, a playful mascot that became synonymous with the brand.
Where Are They Today?
Leo Burnett is now a part of Publicis Groupe and remains a major player in global advertising, known for blending tradition with innovation.
3. Ogilvy & Mather
The Legacy:
Founded by David Ogilvy in 1948, Ogilvy & Mather became known for its sophisticated, research-driven approach to advertising. Ogilvy himself is often referred to as the "Father of Advertising."
Iconic Work:
Hathaway Shirts: Introducing storytelling with “The Man in the Hathaway Shirt.”
Rolls-Royce: “At 60 miles an hour, the loudest noise in this new Rolls-Royce comes from the electric clock.”
Dove: The revolutionary "Real Beauty" campaign.
Where Are They Today?
Ogilvy remains one of the world’s largest advertising networks, continuing its tradition of innovative campaigns under WPP.
4. Saatchi & Saatchi
The Legacy:
Founded in 1970 by Maurice and Charles Saatchi, this London-based agency became synonymous with bold creativity and risk-taking.
Iconic Work:
British Airways: “The World’s Favourite Airline.”
Guinness: The mesmerizing “Surfer” ad.
Toyota: “Go Places” campaign.
Where Are They Today?
Now part of Publicis Groupe, Saatchi & Saatchi continues to produce bold, impactful campaigns across the globe.
5. McCann Erickson
The Legacy:
Founded in 1902, McCann became a leader in advertising with its memorable slogans and campaigns that captured cultural zeitgeists.
Iconic Work:
Coca-Cola: “It’s the Real Thing” and “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke.”
United States Army: The enduring “Be All You Can Be” campaign.
Where Are They Today?
McCann remains a leading global agency under the Interpublic Group, producing impactful campaigns across various industries.
6. BBDO
The Legacy:
Established in 1928, BBDO’s mantra, “The Work. The Work. The Work,” has driven its creativity for decades.
Iconic Work:
Snickers: “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry.”
GE: “Imagination at Work.”
Guinness: The powerful “Made of More” campaign.
Where Are They Today?
BBDO continues to thrive as a creative leader under the Omnicom Group, consistently delivering award-winning work.
7. DDB (Doyle Dane Bernbach)
The Legacy:
Founded in 1949, DDB is credited with revolutionizing modern advertising with its emphasis on creative innovation.
Iconic Work:
Volkswagen: The groundbreaking “Think Small” campaign.
Avis: “We’re Number Two, So We Try Harder.”
Where Are They Today?
DDB remains a major force in advertising as part of Omnicom Group, continuing to champion creativity and innovation.
8. TBWA
The Legacy:
TBWA, founded in 1970, became known for disruptive advertising, challenging norms and redefining creativity.
Iconic Work:
Apple: The legendary “1984” commercial and “Think Different” campaign.
Absolut Vodka: The longest-running print ad campaign in history.
Where Are They Today?
TBWA is part of the Omnicom Group and continues to lead in innovation, working with brands like Adidas and Nissan.
9. Wieden+Kennedy
The Legacy:
Founded in 1982 in Portland, Oregon, Wieden+Kennedy is an independent agency known for its bold, culturally resonant campaigns.
Iconic Work:
Nike: The unforgettable “Just Do It” campaign.
Old Spice: The viral “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like.”
Where Are They Today?
Wieden+Kennedy remains independent, working with global brands like Coca-Cola and Airbnb, while maintaining its reputation for groundbreaking creativity.
10. Grey Group
The Legacy:
Founded in 1917, Grey’s philosophy of “Famously Effective” advertising has led to decades of impactful campaigns.
Iconic Work:
Procter & Gamble: The touching “Thank You, Mom” campaign.
E-Trade: The humorous baby commercials.
Where Are They Today?
Grey is part of the WPP Group and continues to create emotionally resonant campaigns for global brands.
The Enduring Legacy of Advertising Agencies
The advertising agencies featured here have not only driven iconic campaigns but also shaped the evolution of creativity and communication. From the early pioneers to today’s digital innovators, their work continues to inspire and influence businesses and audiences alike. As advertising evolves, these agencies remain benchmarks of excellence, proving that great ideas truly stand the test of time.
