Publicis Groupe CEO Arthur Sadoun weighed in on the Omnicom-IPG combination today, proclaiming that the transaction, if it goes through, would be “positive for the industry at large,” and present “a big opportunity” for the Paris-based ad-marketing group. 

His comments were delivered in an internal video to company staffers a week after the firm released its annual holiday wishes video which celebrated the firm becoming the top holding company by revenue this year.  

“But don’t get used to it,” he told the troops in today’s clip, referencing this week’s merger announcement.  

On the plus side Sadoun noted that if the Omnicom-IPG transaction goes through the combined company will be focused on integration for two years. “Our transformation is behind us,” he said, enabling the firm to be “laser focused on our clients.” 

While the Groupe may not be number one much longer, he added, “We will create a category of one...We are at our best when we are being bold challengers.” 

On a personal note, Sadoun said he has always respected Omnicom and IPG chiefs John Wren and Philippe Krakowsky. The former was his boss 20 years ago and the latter “speaks very good French.” He wished them both “a happy and healthy marriage.”