Havas

One of the six largest global advertising holding companies, with particular strength in Europe and growing capabilities in data-driven media and integrated communications

Havas is a multinational advertising and communications conglomerate headquartered in Paris, France, and is one of the six largest global advertising holding companies. Founded in 1835, Havas operates through three core divisions: Havas Creative (advertising and creative agencies), Havas Media (media planning, buying, and data-driven solutions), and Havas Health & You (healthcare communications). The company serves major global brands across virtually every industry sector, leveraging a network of over 400 agencies worldwide. In the AdTech ecosystem, Havas has invested significantly in data and technology capabilities through its Converged platform, which integrates audience data, media planning, and measurement tools. The group's 'Village' model — co-locating creative, media, and health agencies under one roof — is a distinctive structural approach designed to foster collaboration and integrated client solutions. Havas also operates Havas Market (e-commerce), Havas Play (entertainment and sports), and various specialist units. Havas is a subsidiary of Vivendi, the French media conglomerate controlled by billionaire Vincent Bolloré, which acquired full ownership of the group. This corporate backing provides Havas with significant financial resources and synergies with Vivendi's broader media and entertainment assets including Canal+, CNews, and other properties. The company competes directly with WPP, Publicis Groupe, Omnicom, IPG, and Dentsu for global advertising mandates.