Partner Ardmore has jumped 55 places from the 2018 list, appearing at number 26 in The Drum’s prestigious UK Top 100, beating an international hotlist of big brand agency names. 

The Drum is one of the world’s largest media platforms and its independent Agencies Census analyses the best-run independent agencies in the UK by ranking them based on analysis of two years’ worth of data across a variety of metrics.

Based in Holywood, Ardmore was also last year recognised as Northern Ireland’s Media Agency of the Year at the Irish Media Awards thanks to its fully-integrated approach and expert teams.

Led by Chief Executive John Keane, who is also Chair of Worldwide Partners Inc., a global advertising and marketing network of more than 70 independent agencies in over 40 countries, Ardmore delivers innovative campaigns for a growing roster of local, national and international clients.

Ardmore managing director Mark Irwin said recognition for its work by The Drum was an important endorsement of a wider team effort.

“Our massively improved position in The Drum’s Top 100 UK agency roster is only possible due to our amazing clients who allow us to create brilliant work together. For that work to be recognised internationally and on such an important platform is really satisfying. I’m particularly delighted for everyone in our team that their hard work and talent continues to be recognised on such a prestigious stage. Their relentless focus and dedication to achieving spectacular results for our clients is truly inspiring.”

With more than 60 specialist staff, the company counts Stena Line, Lidl, Translink, Subway, Power NI, Phoenix Natural Gas, Dale Farm, Progressive Building Society, Woking Borough Council and National Trust among its clients. In the public sector, it also represents the Northern Ireland departments of economy, health, education and justice.