Langland acquired by Publicis Healthcare Communications Group

Langland is to be acquired by the Publicis Healthcare Communications Group (PHCG), a move that will accelerate the agency's global growth.

PHCG is the largest health-oriented agency network, with more than 5,500 employees, 12 agency brands and 60 offices located in ten countries. Its global reach will help expand the Langland brand internationally to create a worldwide health and wellness advertising network.

Langland will open its first overseas office in New York at the beginning of 2016, with the acquisition allowing the firm to extend its geographic coverage and offer services in more diverse areas.

The deal was confirmed following conversations with Nick Colucci, PHCG's chief executive officer. Philip Chin, chief executive of Langland, will continue to lead the Langland business alongside the existing senior management team.

Mr Chin said: "We are joining PHCG because Nick understands the importance we place on retaining the operational independence and creatively-led culture that has produced almost uninterrupted growth for more than twenty years."

Joanna Chin, meanwhile, will step down from her role as chief operating officer and leave the agency to pursue new professional opportunities.