WPP Invest in Just Marketing International

Just Marketing International (JMI), a leader in motorsports marketing, has announced that WPP, the world’s largest communications services group, has made a strategic investment in the company.

JMI represents a broad portfolio of global brands with an established presence in Formula 1, NASCAR, IndyCar, The World Rally Championship and the major sportscar categories. The company was founded by CEO Zak Brown in 1995, and operates from its Indianapolis headquarters with global offices in cities including London, Singapore and Hong Kong.

The investment represents a strategic affiliation by both parties to leverage expertise and elevate client insights and solutions. 

The agreement means that JMI will have access to WPP’s global network while providing a direct route for WPP clients to be introduced to motorsports. 

Spire Capital, which took a majority stake in JMI in 2008, remains the principal shareholder and Brown the second largest shareholder. 

WPP takes a minority equity stake and has representation on the board of JMI, with the Credit Suisse Customized Fund Investment Group completing the shareholder group.

Zak Brown, founder and CEO of JMI, said: “I am thrilled with WPP’s investment in JMI. It represents a significant development for the company and an endorsement of our expertise from the biggest global player in the industry. 

“The benefits to JMI, its people and most importantly our clients, will be substantial and I am excited by the potential of this alliance. Our ability to tap into the WPP network will bolster our client offerings, enhance operational excellence and drive accelerated growth. Quite simply, WPP is the turbo for JMI’s engine.”

Andrew Scott, director of corporate development of WPP, added: “We are strong believers in the marketing power of international motorsports for global brands. 

“JMI is a leading company in the sector so this investment is a natural fit for WPP and will help to offer our clients exciting new opportunities in the field of motorsports.”