(01)EngagementOverview

Entrepreneurial buyer acquires Scream Agency for growth.

Founded in 1997 by Lora Ledermann, Scream Agency is a Denver-based creative powerhouse known for its full-service marketing and PR solutions. As a woman-owned agency and a Certified B Corporation, it’s dedicated to socially responsible solutions and brand strategy, serving clients in the financial, food & beverage, hospitality, and nonprofit sectors with a strong commitment to purpose-driven work.

(Details)

  • Engagement Sell-Side Representation
  • Type Growth Investment
  • Category Creative Content Development, Female Founded, Under $10M
  • Buyer Type Entrepreneurial Buyer
  • Deal Size Under $5M
  • Services Valuation & Market Positioning, Buyer Targeting & Outreach, Offer & Negotiation Support, Due Diligence Management, Closing & Transition Support

(02)Inside TheEnterprise

Who Is Scream Agency?

Scream Agency stands out in the creative landscape for its unwavering commitment to socially responsible and purpose-driven marketing strategies. This distinct ethos, combined with their innovative solutions in branding, media, and public relations, positions Scream Agency as a leader in creating meaningful, impactful brand narratives.

(03)Founder'sMotive

The Why Behind The Sale

After nurturing Scream Agency for 25 years, Lora was ready to hand over the reins, seeking a partner who could carry the brand’s legacy forward. With a focus on expanding the agency and enhancing its service offerings, Lora’s aim was to ensure the continuity of the agency’s mission and culture while she embarked on a new journey in her personal life.

(04)Founder’s Vision

Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit

Lora envisioned a buyer who not only shared her commitment to socially responsible business practices but also had the expertise and resources to drive Scream’s growth. It was crucial for her to find a successor who could maintain the agency’s woman-owned status, B-Corp certification, and women-driven culture.

(05)Setting the Stage

Preparing Scream Agency for Acquisition

With the agency positioned for growth, Lora sought to expand its service offerings in web and content marketing, PR, social media, and brand development. Her goal was to prepare Scream Agency for a transition that would enable it to scale these services and create a larger impact on client success and revenue.

(06)Attracting Suitors

Strategic Marketing of Scream Agency for Acquisition

The search for the ideal buyer involved showcasing Scream Agency’s unique value proposition and mission-driven approach to potential buyers in the market, facilitated by crafted marketing materials and strategic targeting.

(07)Sealing the Deal

Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer

Melanie Pease Davidson, a Denver-based impact investor and marketing leader, emerged as the perfect fit for Scream Agency. Her background in consumer marketing, coupled with a strong focus on social advocacy, aligned with Lora’s vision and the agency’s values.

(08)Unlocking Synergies

Positive Impacts Post-Transaction

Melanie’s expertise in building strong teams and her deep understanding of customer experience and digital strategy promised a bright future for Scream Agency, aligning the agency’s mission with practical growth strategies.

(09)Finding a New Home

The Merge Difference

Merge played an instrumental role in this transition, showcasing a diverse pool of buyers to ensure that Lora’s personal and professional aspirations for Scream Agency were mirrored in her successor, leading to a fulfilling partnership with Melanie.