The U.S. Army, which has gone back and forth with the awarding a new advertising contract, again extended its current agreement with agency Leo Burnett for six months, AdAge reports. Burnett thus ends up with one more year on an ad contract that was supposed to have ended last summer. A review will still be launched, but now has a December 31 target date for conclusion.
DefenseIndustryDaily reports that various U.S. military organizations have recently issued recruiting-related contracts, including a contract for up to $200 million for various National Guard-related services, and up to $35.1 million in materials for Navy Recruiting Command.
The Army also said it would increase ad spending to counter recruiting shortfalls, and Burnett's contract could be for up to $250 million for the next six months.
"As we face a global war on terrorism, the U.S. Army is increasing its communication and outreach to American citizens," Paul Boyce, an Army spokesman, said. He defended the decision to extend Burnett's contract without competitive bidding, noting the government may do so in an "emergency."
