3-day AdAsia 2019 opens in Lahore

The three-day 31st AdAsia 2019 opened at Alhamra Arts Council on Tuesday. The speakers of the inaugural session deliberated upon the opportunities and challenges of technology and communication in the new world. They said the AdAsia 2019 has turned into a platform for global leaders to share their business practices and strengths.

A special feature of the event was a detailed and live interview of a British businessman and founder of the world's largest advertising and PR group, WPP plc, Sir Martin Sorrell by the renowned anchor person of CNN International Richard Quest. Also, Pakistani showbiz star Fawad Khan interacted with Atiqa Odho in the afternoon. Renowned businessmen from all across the country were also prominent amongst the notables.

The theme for the congress is "Celebrasian: Celebration of Advertising and Creativity in Asia", and the communication has been designed keeping the theme and design elements from Pakistan in mind. The conference would continue up to December 5, when President Dr Arif Alvi would conclude this mega event.

Delegates from all over the world and Pakistan are participating in the event. Among those who spoke on the occasion included Chairman Pakistan Advertising Agency Wear Hairdo, Honorary Chairman of the Organizing Committee of AdAsia 2019 Javed Jabber, Chairman Organizing Committee AdAsia Lahore 2019 Sarmad Ali, Chairman Asian Federation of Advertising Associations (AFAA) Raymond Sou, Senior Vice Chairman PAA Jawed Homerun, Creative Director BBDO ME & Pakistan Ali Rez, CNN anchor Richard Quest, and Executive Creative Director Dentsu Inc. Yasuharu Sasaki.

AdAsia is the largest and most prestigious advertising congress in Asia, organized bi-annually, since 1958, by AFAA. The AdAsia 2019 was graced by the most distinguished personalities from the global business community and speakers like Randi Zuckerberg, Sir Martin Sorrell, Lord William Hague, Richard Quest, Fernando Machado, Vange Kourentis, Tom Goodwin and many more.

The Asian Federation of Advertising Associations (AFAA) bestowed its prestigious "Leadership Award" to the founder and Chairman of English Biscuit Manufacturers (EBM), Khawar Masood Butt, during its conference in Lahore.

This accolade was presented in recognition of his tremendous contributions to the marketing and advertising industry of Pakistan as well as his vision and good governance resulting in EBM's successful growth over the years. CEO & MD of EBM Dr Zeelaf Munir received this award on behalf of Khawar Butt.

Khawar Masood Butt has continued making remarkable contributions to the nation's cultural and commercial progress. EBM has always generously supported entrepreneurship, education, health, sports, arts and advertising endeavors, thus reflecting his passion for excellence as well as his ability to identify opportunity and talent. He is also famous for creating the legendary character of Peek Freans the Pied Piper, which to-date, continues to make a positive impact, consequently making him one of the most inspirational entrepreneurs of today.

The Founder of EBM expressed his gratitude to the stalwarts of the advertising and marketing world for acknowledging his efforts and vision that inspired EBM's growth over the years.

He stated, "The development of marketing and advertising professions has gained great momentum across the world, while the rapid evolution and deployment of technologies have also revolutionized communications in Pakistan. Amid all these changes, EBM remains committed towards staying at the forefront of innovation and progress in Pakistan and keeping the country at par with global standards of performance and quality."

While Butt continues to nurture strong bonds within the business community, especially the advertising and marketing sectors, he had also played a pivotal role in orchestrating AdAsia conference which was held in Pakistan in 1989.

He is also credited with being one of the first few advertisers for television and assisting in the growth of some of Pakistan's earliest TV channels. For Butt, advertising has always held enormous power to spread socio-political awareness among the masses, while also making the economy more sustainable.

During this auspicious event, EBM's vibrant new logo was also introduced to the audience while Dr Zeelaf Munir highlighted the idea behind this change by stating, "This fresh corporate-identity celebrates our brand-purpose: 'nourishing lives, hearts and communities'. The symbol combines three unique elements that form the "Heart" of our brand, with an optimistic sunrise that shows a dynamic, engaging and distinct character of the enterprise and finally, a human touch that promises a brighter future. It is EBM's privilege to present its new identity during this grand marketing endeavor."

She appreciated the organizers for once again bringing back a global forum like AdAsia to Pakistan and said, "EBM is committed to continue supporting any forum that helps to elevate Pakistan's image internationally".