In addition, WPP has agreed to acquire 30.1% of BIG, which has established a worldwide network of around 10,000 independent inventors and innovators.
Sir Martin Sorrell's, WPP Group chief executive, said: "In our view, innovation and branding remains the prime source of growth for our clients -- less risky than acquisition. We believe BIG provides a major opportunity for us to deliver product innovation and new ideas for our clients and then be in a position to brand them."
Using the format of roadshows staged around the world, BIG brings together innovators, inventions and companies looking for new ideas, creating new products for firms such as Staples, General Mills and QVC, among others.
BIG's clients operate mainly in consumer packaged goods, food and beverages, personal media and technology, though the company expects to extend into other industry sectors with WPP's support.
Michael Collins, CEO of BIG, said: "WPP gives us access and support, plus research and traditional marketing services. And BIG supplies a powerful innovation-discovery engine. We're already working together on various client initiatives and expanding our innovation services offering."
BIG's audited revenues for the year ended December 31 2005 were $2.1m (拢1.1m).
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