Ikano Centres picks creative agency

Malaysian regional retail and property company Ikano Centres has appointed creative agency The Clan for a new creative partnership, following a pitch in 2023.

The role entails brand and communications work for the various outlets under the IKEA-anchored Ikano Centres, where The Clan aims to apply its multi-disciplinary offerings to Ikano Centre's business needs across its various online and on-ground channels, while striking the right balance between the brand’s Scandinavian roots and the cultural nuances of the local market.

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Ikano Centres is part of the Ikano Retail Group, which comprise some of Malaysia's most unique shopping and lifestyle destinations. The group's Malaysia outlets include IPC in Petaling Jaya, MyTOWN in Kuala Lumpur, Toppen in Johor Bahru, and Klippa in Batu Kawan, Penang. 

“At Ikano Centres, we believe that our meeting destinations are more than just traditional retail spaces. They are hubs where our communities can come together to connect, discover, and be inspired. Thus, it was important for us to align with partners who shared our vision of redefining conventional retail into unforgettable, experiential journeys for our visitors," said Natasha Aziz, head of brand experience and communications, Ikano Centres. "The Clan exemplified this through their work and vision to bring our brand narratives to life.”

Yow Kuan Wai, executive creative director at The Clan added, “It’s somewhat fitting that a brand such as Ikano Centres that is all about community would choose The Clan, an agency that’s all about people. Of course, we are also about the work, so we are honoured that they recognised our thinking and our craft. We’re looking forward to a collaborative and meaningful partnership.”

The Clan is currently in the midst of conceptualising and executing a series of dedicated campaigns throughout the year, designed to garner top-of-mind recall of each shopping centre, and drive increased footfall, said Ikano Centres in a statement.

“It is a privilege to work with such a forward-thinking brand with such a big heart for the environment and the community. They deserve a lot of brand love. Our aim is to bring that to them by caring as much as they do and by bringing a lot of local cultural context to the work,” concluded Casey Loh, co-founder and creative chief, The Clan. 

Ikano Centres last called an agency pitch to cover media and planning duties in 2021, which was reported to last three years. 

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