The organisers of the 56th Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival have announced Volkswagen as its Advertiser of the Year.

Founded in 1937 in Wolfsburg, Germany, Volkswagen is the largest carmaker in Europe. After winning its first Cannes Lion in 1961, the automotive giant’s ads have won nearly 150 Lions across all disciplines.

Jochen Sengpiehl, senior vice president of marketing for Volkswagen, explains that creative and innovative marketing solutions are part of the company’s DNA.

“Continuous and trustful agency relationships like DDB worldwide, BBDO Almap and others are important to realise outstanding work in difficult times,” said Sengpiehl.

The Advertiser of the Year trophy will be presented to Sengpiehl in Cannes during the Film, Titanium and Integrated Lions Awards Ceremony in June.

“We are delighted to honour a brand that has loyally supported, and that continues to embrace the creative marketing of its cars throughout the decades allowing its agencies to produce numerous powerful and award winning ads over the years,” said Terry Savage, Cannes Lions Festival chairman.