Established in 2021, Salient Global is a dynamic integrated marketing and communications agency dedicated to driving growth. The agency prioritizes delivering employee and customer-centric experiences that are adaptable across various channels and grounded in data. Their approach is designed to achieve meaningful results and create lasting impacts for their clients.

Inside the Enterprise: Who Is Salient Global?

Leveraging extensive expertise in digital strategy, communications, creative solutions, and both employee and customer experience, Salient Global is committed to uncovering insights that reveal the greatest opportunities for success. This commitment is why their clients trust them to guide strategic initiatives and unlock their full potential.

Salient Global’s innovative approach combines top-tier talent with data-driven solutions. Supported by a network of Salient-powered agencies—including the creative agency Honeymoon, the experience and innovation firm Timecraft, and the marketing and communications firm Candor—they deliver unparalleled value to their clients.

Buyer’s Motive: The Why Behind the Search

Salient Global has a growth plan centered on acquiring agencies that fit within their service scope and align with their strategic interests. When Merge first met with Salient Global, they were seeking an impressive PR agency that had the full package: a stellar reputation, strong financials, an incredible team, and outstanding work product. The team was particularly excited to explore opportunities in the Midwest to expand their geographic footprint.

Buyer’s Vision: Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit

In their search for a strategic partner, Salient Global aimed for an agency that would not only facilitate growth and expansion through acquisition but also bring synergy to their existing operations. They sought a partner who would support these goals and align seamlessly with Salient Global’s long-term vision of becoming a market leader. The ideal candidate would possess a robust portfolio, a strong reputation in the industry, and a proven track record of success. Additionally, Salient Global was looking for a partner who shared their commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainable business practices. This comprehensive approach ensured that the acquisition would enhance their competitive edge and drive continued success in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Setting the Stage: Preparing Salient Global for Acquisition

Having successfully completed prior acquisitions, Salient Global approached their collaboration with Merge with an integrated and meticulous strategy designed to facilitate and execute a successful transaction. They brought to the table valuable experience and insights from previous endeavors, ensuring that every aspect of the process was thoroughly planned and executed. This included extensive due diligence, strategic alignment meetings, and the establishment of clear communication channels to ensure transparency and efficiency. Salient Global also invested in robust training and integration programs to prepare both teams for a seamless transition. Their proactive approach underscored their commitment to achieving not just a successful acquisition, but a partnership that would yield long-term benefits and drive mutual growth.

Attracting Agencies: Highlighting the Benefits of an Acquisition with Salient Global

The strategic marketing of Salient Global highlighted its status as an industry leader in marketing and communications. This reputation, combined with innovative service offerings, attracted attention from multiple prospective sellers, showcasing the agency’s value and potential for growth.

Sealing the Deal: Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Seller

It was crucial for Salient Global to find synergies in their acquisition pursuits, considering both strategic and cultural dimensions. Merge ensured alignment between the buyer and seller, guaranteeing sustainability post-transaction.

Unlocking Synergies: Positive Impacts Post-Transaction

After acquiring Candor from Merge, both Candor and Salient have flourished post-acquisition. The integration has gone smoothly, and the companies continue to work in true partnership as they grow and expand in the marketing and communications arena.

Finding a New Home: The Merge Difference

The expertise and strategic insight of Merge were instrumental in bringing Candor and Salient Global together. “Candor’s world-class capabilities, unmatched values, and growth mindset made it clear they were the perfect partner to join our Salient network of best-in-class marketing companies,” said Bryan Specht, CEO of Salient. “This is an important moment in Salient’s growth journey and for our clients, which Candor will no doubt contribute to with their fresh perspective and forward-thinking capabilities across public relations, production, and public affairs.”