The SEO Department ✳︎

Allison Lantz, owner and CEO of The SEO Department, faced personal challenges that necessitated a shift in her focus towards health and family. This led her to partner with Merge to find a suitable buyer who could continue the agency’s upward trajectory while maintaining its ethos and caring for its dedicated team.

Having founded Lazarus Design Team during their college years, the founders enjoyed a remarkable journey of growth and success over the past eight years. Their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to excellence propelled the agency to new heights, allowing them to build a strong reputation and a loyal client base. As they reflected on their achievements, they recognized it was time to take their chips off the table. Eager to explore new ventures and pursue fresh opportunities, they sought a transition that would enable Lazarus to thrive under new leadership while they embarked on exciting new chapters in their professional lives.

Allison’s priority was finding a buyer who would not only appreciate the value and potential of The SEO Department but also safeguard the future and well-being of her highly skilled management and senior SEO team.

Allison and Merge worked together to effectively position The SEO Department for sale, emphasizing its robust revenue base, strong referral network, consistent growth, and status as a preferred agency for SEO services.

Merge conducted a comprehensive valuation of The SEO Department and developed marketing materials showcasing the agency’s achievements and future potential, attracting prospective buyers who aligned with Allison’s vision.

The perfect match for The SEO Department was found in Barrington Media Group, a portfolio company of Fort Point Capital, known for strengthening digital practices and diversifying platforms. This synergy promised a bright future for both The SEO Department and Barrington Media Group.

The acquisition by Barrington Media Group offered The SEO Department the opportunity to expand its services and client base, while BMG benefitted from enhanced digital expertise and a diversified offering, creating a stronger, more comprehensive digital marketing platform.

Merge’s expertise in the M&A process was pivotal in this acquisition, expertly aligning The SEO Department with a buyer that not only met its strategic goals but also shared its cultural values, ensuring a successful and synergistic partnership under the new ownership.