Lincolnshire firm bought by US advertising giant
A Lincolnshire marketing agency has been bought by the fourth largest advertising agency in the world.
Zazzle Media of Market Deeping has been acquired, alongside its Leeds-based sister agency brand Stickeyes, by the NYSE-listed giant’s IPG Mediabrands arm to become its ‘European Hub for search engine optimisation and digital content’.
Speaking about the acquisition, Zazzle Media founder and MD Simon Penson said: “Together with Stickyeyes we have created one of Europe’s very best independent agencies and we are pleased to say that didn’t go unnoticed.
“Joining such an exciting network as IPG is the final part of the jigsaw as it gives us all the opportunity to work with some of the biggest brands in the world while still maintaining the ability to help successful local businesses expand fast.”
The deal is expected to accelerate growth for the business and planning is already underway to begin a search for new digital talent in the area.
Simon Penson
“Recruitment is high on the agenda now,” continued Penson. “We want to ensure we have the very best talent across our Peterborough, Leeds and London offices to help us deliver amazing work for our clients as we grow. That hunt starts now.”
Craig Lister, managing director Search and Social, IPG Mediabrands, EMEA, said: “Digital leadership is strategically imperative for us. This acquisition is evidence of that and adds further momentum. Today, over two thirds of our UK staff are now full-time digital experts.”
He continued: “Without doubt, this move enhances opportunities for both existing and new clients. The combined knowledge of Stickyeyes, Zazzle Media, Reprise (our existing search practice), Ansible (full service mobile) and Cadreon (our programmatic practice) offering a complementary skill set and will deliver the scale and expertise to fulfil the toughest client briefs in the most creative and relevant ways imaginable.”
Craig Chalmers, CEO, Stickyeyes Group, said: “It was obvious when we first met, that IPG Mediabrands’ and our ambitions were aligned. Their expertise in media buying, programmatic and data will combine seamlessly with our audience-focused digital engagement approach to create something that we believe is truly unique in the market.
“This is an incredibly exciting time for everybody involved. There are huge opportunities for not only everyone within the Stickyeyes Group, but clients throughout the IPG Mediabrands group. We are joining forces with an incredibly forward-thinking agency group and are looking forward to bringing our talents and expertise to an already world-class and global team.”
Stickyeyes Group were advised by GP Bullhound.
