McDonald's Australia has taken part of its creative account to pitch, confirming the search for "an additional creative agency partner".

It is understood the pitch involves two specific projects and will not impact the fast food behemoth's long-standing relationship with DDB, which dates back to its arrival in the Australian market 53 years ago. DDB Australia declined to comment on the pitch, however Mi3 understands that the agency will continue to handle brand, retail, sponsorship and social in Australia.

McDonald's has said it will look at its global roster to find its next Australian creative partner. In recent years, McDonald's has partnered with independent creative shop Akcelo for its local retail and and activation work, with the agency behind the new Grimace campaign that launched earlier this month.

Others in the international line-up include Leo Burnett in the UK, Wieden & Kennedy and Dorga5 in the US, and TBWA across Europe and Asia. DDB, which remains as McDonald's primary creative partner in Australia and New Zealand account, will not be pitching for the additional projects.

In a statement shared with Mi3, a McDonald's Australia spokesperson said: "The successful agency will become part of our award-winning agency village, as we look to deliver highly effective and culturally relevant campaigns that drive our brand and business forward. It is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure we have the best partners and capabilities in place and follows on from our recently completed CRM pitch process earlier in the year."

The pitch process is expected to be completed by the end of the year.