Digital agency AKQA will expand its operations in Asia and open a Shanghai office by the end of the year.

"Our global clients are looking for greater coverage in Asia and China in particular," said Tom Bedecarre, Chief Executive Officer of AKQA. "With the rapid approach of the high-profile 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, AKQA will be on the ground for our clients, many of whom are Olympic sponsors, such as Coca-Cola and Visa," Bedecarre added.

AKQA has started recruiting across Asia Pacific for the best creative and technical staff for AKQA Shanghai. AKQA has established a wholly foreign owned enterprise to operate in Shanghai.