Letter from the editor: Madwell and Ad Age’s A-List

Earlier this week, Ad Age named Madwell Comeback Agency of the Year as part of our 2025 A-List honors. However, new developments have since emerged that caused us to revisit this recognition. Following multiple reports and confirmation from agency leadership, Ad Age has learned that Madwell is facing significant financial issues, including delayed payments to employees, outstanding debts to vendors, and an eviction notice for its Denver office. The agency is also involved in a lawsuit with Bank of America over an unpaid $4 million loan. Ad Age has made the decision to revoke Madwell’s Comeback Agency of the Year title based on the recently discovered financial matters. In doing so, we wish to emphasize that Madwell did not engage in any improper conduct in its submission that led to us originally selecting Madwell for the Comeback Agency of the Year award. We remain committed to upholding the integrity of our awards and will continue to evaluate honorees with transparency and accountability. Dan Peres, President Jeanine Poggi, Editor-in-chief

Letter from the editor: Madwell and Ad Age’s A-List

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