Lebanese Advertising mourns the loss of Joe Hitti

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Born in April 1960, Joe graduated from the American University of Beirut in 1982. He dedicated his entire career to the advertising industry, leading the family business, Publicité Universelle, founded by his father, Philippe Hitti, in 1952.

Publicité Universelle began its journey by representing two cinemas, Gaumont Palace and Cinema Scala. Within a few years, it represented nearly 90% of the country's cinema advertising market. Building on this success, the company evolved into a full-service advertising agency. By the mid-1960s, it had become one of Lebanon's top five advertising agencies.

In February 1995, the agency was rebranded as CDA (Concept Dialog Advice). Under Joe’s leadership, CDA preserved the values and reputation established by its founder while adapting to a changing communications landscape. Many of the agency's clients remained loyal for nearly five decades, a testament to the trust and long-lasting relationships built by the Hitti family.

Joe was also an active contributor to the industry's professional community. He served on the board of the Advertising Association (AA) for seven consecutive terms, from 2002 to 2015, holding the position of Treasurer and board member. His dedication helped strengthen the association and support the development of Lebanon's advertising sector.

Throughout his career, Joe was widely respected for his professionalism, integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to the industry. Remembered by colleagues and friends as a true gentleman, he leaves behind a legacy of dignity, and kindness. His passing marks the end of an era for one of Lebanon's pioneering independent agencies.

He will be remembered not only for carrying forward an exceptional family legacy but also for the lasting impact he made on generations of colleagues, clients, and friends across the Lebanese advertising community.

ArabAd extends its deepest condolences to Joe's father Philippe, his wife Marielle, his children Philippe, Karl, and Yasmina, and his entire family