Pharma giant Johnson & Johnson has awarded WPP media agency of record duties for North America after a review that began earlier this year. 

The incumbent was J3, a dedicated unit formed by Interpublic a decade ago after it won J&J’s global media account. 

J&J’s estimated ad spend in the North America region is $300 million according to agency research firm COMvergence. 

WPP health care specialist CMI Media Group and GroupM along with other WPP units will jointly service the account.  

A J & J spokesperson issued a statement confirming the award:  

“Johnson & Johnson has selected WPP as the company’s agency of record for all paid media capabilities in North America following a robust selection process. WPP was chosen based on its strengths in strategy, process, thought leadership, data, and technology... WPP will support Company efforts to communicate how Johnson & Johnson is tackling the toughest health challenges and delivering innovations that transform patient care.”