Brandswell, a member of the Matrix Communications Group (Matrix Group), celebrates two decades of creating powerful brand momentum for clients across Africa. The agency’s journey—from an on-the-ground consumer activation specialist agency to its current role as a strategic partner—is a testament to its single, unwavering focus: building brands that forge authentic connections with people.
With its origins in disruptive campaigns using unexplored channels, the agency’s experience working with global brands like Coca-Cola, SAB and Unilever over the years gave it a unique methodology rooted in direct, tangible engagement. This expertise became the foundation for its evolution into an integrated brand partner within the Matrix Group, whose philosophy is built on human-centric communication.
“For an agency to thrive, it needs to be both active and agile. After 20 years, we can definitively say that true brand growth comes from a genuine connection with the consumer,” said Jonathan Chappé de Leonval, co-founder and executive creative director. “This is the insight we bring to every client, and it’s the reason we’ve been able to deliver highly effective campaigns, consistently.”
This forward-thinking approach is part of Brandswell’s DNA. As early as 2015, well before the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency adopted a virtual project management platform, becoming one of the first truly virtual agencies in South Africa. Originally founded in Durban, this platform has allowed the team to work virtually on big brand, turnkey campaigns and deliver seamless execution and project management anywhere in the country and continent.
“Two decades of success are built on a commitment to future-proofing our clients,” added Kgaugelo Maphai, Director of Brandswell. “We are proud to have partnered with diverse organisations, from FMCG, state-owned entities like Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (now KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film) and the Industrial Development Corporation, to industry leaders like Sun International’s Sunbets and PPC’s 130 birthday celebrations. Our ability to protect a brand’s integrity through strong creative strategy and trusted execution remains our most vital offering, and we look forward to many more years of shared achievements.”
The name Brandswell represents the powerful, sustained growth the agency builds for its clients. It is the momentum that strategically places a brand ahead of its competitors, creating a lasting impact in the market.
