Agens: the captive agency of SIAM that marked business design
Agens S.A. began as an industrial design and advertising agency within SIAM Automotores, evolving into an independent studio with a diverse client base from the 1960s onwards.
Agens S.A. was founded in the mid-1950s but only began operations as an industrial design and advertising agency in the early 1960s within the SIAM Automotores division. For years, Agens managed advertising for SIAM and its subsidiaries, including companies like Siambretta and Electrodoméstica, while also engaging in industrial design projects, point of sales, interior design, and exhibition stands. The agency gained significant traction during this period, becoming a notable name in the industrial design sector of Argentina.
In 1965, following the sale of SIAM Automotores to IKA (Industrias Kaiser Argentina), Agens transitioned into an independent studio, broadening its scope and client reach. The agency had a varied portfolio of clients that included Aluar, Alvear Palace Hotel, and Westinghouse International, showcasing its ability to cater to a wide range of industries. This independence allowed Agens to innovate further and establish itself as a key player in the Argentine design landscape.
One prominent figure in Agens' history was Daniel García, who held several executive roles within the SIAM Group and worked closely with Guido Di Tella. His leadership and vision helped to steer the agency through its formative years and contributed to its reputation as a leader in design during a transformative period in Argentina’s industrial sector. The legacy of Agens continues to influence modern design practices in the country.