Billings, the advertising spend of an agency's clients, are one measure of the health of an agency's client base.
In total, Scotland's top seven agencies billed £71.52 million in 2007, compared to £62.46 in 2006, a rise of 14.5%. This demonstrates a positive picture for the industry in Scotland – however the data does not reveal whether growth tailed off in the second half of last year, as is widely anticipated due to the slowing UK economy.
Edinburgh-based The Union retained its No.1 in Scotland crown for the second year running, billing over £16 million, up 9% on 2006. Ian McAteer, Group Chairman of The Union said: "It's perhaps unexpected to see growth in the Scottish market, but it is great news for the industry. The fact we were able to grow in 2007 was also great news – it was down to the hard work of everyone here. It took us ten years to reach the top spot – the difficulty will now be staying there – as the competition in this market is as tough as anywhere."
The figures are compiled by Neilsen research for Campaign Magazine.