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We're proud to support independent brilliance

10th July 2025
We're proud to support independent brilliance

AUTHOR: DNA Recruit

We’ve always backed the energy and impact of independent agencies, and the Independent Agency Awards 2025 felt like a perfect extension of that commitment. A celebration of originality, purpose, and results, hosted by the Alliance of Independent Agencies live at MAD//Fest London.

This year, we were honoured to be the Official Talent Partner of the awards. For us, that means more than displaying our logo. It means supporting the agencies doing things differently, helping them attract and grow the talent they need, and spotlighting the individuals behind the work.

Our CEO, Ali, had the privilege of presenting the Agency Purpose Award, a standout moment and huge congratulations go to Altavia UK who came out on top.

Recognition like this matters. It’s the independent agencies that are creatively setting new standards in culture and collaboration. Their boldness and agility bring them closer to the client. And now, with platforms like these awards, they’re getting the credit they’ve long deserved.

From powerful purpose-led work to wildly inventive brand experiences, this year’s winners showed just how much great work is happening outside the big networks. A few standouts:

·       PrettyGreen’s “Picture of Health” for Bupa picked up both Best Idea/Concept and Best International Campaign

·       ZEAL’s “Dry Manuary” for TENA Men impressed the judges enough to bag wins for both FMCG and Bravery

·       Savvy Marketing showed serious versatility with wins across Social, Shopper and Retail

·       Circle Agency turned a Costa campaign into a hot milkshake fantasy and that, in turn, earned them the Best Brand Experience award

There’s a lot more where that came from. See the full list of winners here.

The Awards were a real-world reminder that independent agencies are where energy lives. From the ideas and leadership styles to the flexibility and freedom of approach, there’s something about indies that big networks just can’t replicate.

Our team left MAD//Fest energised. We caught up with clients, connected with future candidates, and saw old friends step on stage to collect well-earned trophies.

We love being part of events like this, and we’ll keep showing up, backing brilliance, and helping agencies grow.

Huge thanks to the Alliance of Independent Agencies and MAD//Fest for pulling it all together, and hats off to every agency shortlisted and recognised. You’re all doing incredible work.

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