Former Barkers director Andy Hughes has officially launched his new advertising agency, Idea, formed following the recent closure of Barkers.

Two former colleagues, Zoe Law and Lynsey Massie, have joined Hughes in partnership.

Hughes was a stalwart of Barkers Scotland having been at the agency for more than two decades. However, following its surprise closure he quickly launched Idea – taking with him a trio of long term, ex-Barkers clients, Behar Carpets, Verve Automotive and Robertson Homes.

However, Idea has been forced to resign the Robertson Homes business last month following a pending conflict of interest.

Speaking of the launch, Hughes said: "We are doing pretty well, particularly given the short start up timescales and we are particularly grateful for the considerate support given by two of our longest-standing clients formerly at Barkers, Behar Carpets and Verve Automotive.
 
"We have also pitched for several new pieces of business in recent weeks with some success and I hope to provide more details soon.
 
"The only regret is that after handling the business for around five years through Barkers, Idea recently resigned the Robertson Homes account. The reason for this decision is a pending conflict of interest.

"The parting is completely amicable from both parties and I wish Robertson Homes every success in finding a replacement creative agency. I have offered to provide any suppport required to facilitate a responsible hand-over to our successor when required."

"I should imagine the news of an account review will be welcomed by a fairly static agency marketplace and I wish all interested parties good luck - we have had many successful and enjoyable experiences working with Robertson Homes over the last five years."

"I hope to reveal more info on our new business wins in due course."