Elysian Hotels and Resorts Taps zig as Agency of Record

CHICAGO | Elysian Hotels and Resorts today announced that zig, an ideas company within the MDC Partners Network, will serve as its agency of record following a closed review. zig will launch the Elysian brand on a global scale, beginning with its flagship property, Elysian Chicago.

The lavish hotel and residences will be established internationally through efforts that include the creation of a universal style guide, advertising, internal and external communications materials, and strategic events. zig's new digital group will handle the creation of a web site, and oversee all digital and online marketing efforts.

"Through our partnership with zig, we will communicate the Elysian's mission of restoring an unprecedented level of taste and graciousness to hotel-keeping," said David Pisor, CEO of Elysian Hotels and Resorts. "In a crowded hospitality and real estate landscape, we bring to market an experience that goes beyond the luxury promised by competitors. zig's non-traditional approach to establishing the brand will emphasize these differences."

"The Elysian is all about experiences and comfortable luxury," said Steve Carli, managing partner and planner at zig. "It will be evident in everything from the design of the stationary to the demeanor of the staff, and as we prepare for the launch of Elysian Chicago, we'll bring their mission to life with smart, powerful ideas that create and capture these moments."

Elysian Chicago is located in the prestigious Gold Coast neighborhood, and sets a new standard in ultra-luxury experiences by delivering highly refined service in a sophisticated and timeless setting. Designed by renowned architect Lucien Lagrange, the hotel features 188 guestrooms and 52 private residences. Iconic five-star chef Charlie Trotter oversees the hotel's restaurants, private events and in-room dining. The property is slated for completion in Spring 2009.

Elysian Chicago is the first property established by Elysian Development, a Chicago-based real estate development firm founded in 2003 which develops high-end landmark hotels and residential properties in gateway cities and destination resorts throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. All properties will be consistent with the brand and identified by prime locations, innovative design, and remarkable amenities.

zig previously worked with Elysian Development on a project basis, focusing on marketing efforts for the residence portion of the property.

About zig |Zig is a communications company within the MDC Partners network that creates ideas in their most powerful form. Since its inception in 1999 in Toronto, zig has earned a reputation as one of the leading ideas companies in Canada, which led to the opening of its first United States office in 2006. The agency works with respected brands including Molson, Virgin Mobile, IKEA, Best Buy, Unilever, Pfizer and Microsoft. Zig has earned numerous awards and recognition for their work from the Cannes Lions, The One Show, Clio Awards, Art Directors Club, Communication Arts and others. For more information, visit www.zigideas.com.