(01)EngagementOverview
Strategic buyer acquires CGPR for growth.
Founded in 1993, CGPR is a well-established public relations, communications, and integrated marketing agency specializing in representing leading active lifestyle consumer brands. With 30 years of expertise in the athletic and outdoor recreation industries, the agency has also honed a deep understanding of the technological components that power these industries. CGPR’s service offerings encompass media relations, strategic counsel, experiential event planning and execution, trade show support, crisis and reputation management, social media, influencer engagement, and media training. With 90% of its revenue coming from long-term retainers, CGPR’s clients benefit from tailored communications strategies designed to maintain brand reputation and engage audiences across the globe. The agency boasts a low client concentration, long-term partnerships, and a proven track record in the industry. CGPR is seeking a strategic acquirer to further scale its operations and leverage its unique position within the active lifestyle sector.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Partial Sale
- Category SEO, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Digital Product & Web Development
- Buyer Type Strategic Acquirer
- 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 CGPR?
CGPR is a leading public relations agency with a focus on providing high-quality, tailored services for active lifestyle brands. The agency’s expertise spans across digital and traditional media relations, influencer engagement, crisis management, and experiential event planning. CGPR is known for its ability to transform clients into thought leaders in their respective markets through content generation, strategic speaking engagements, and robust media outreach. In addition to media relations, CGPR also offers social media management, website management, and marketing services. The agency works with a diverse set of clients, primarily in the consumer active lifestyle and lifestyle brand technology sectors. With a long history of success and expertise in crisis communications and media strategy, CGPR has developed deep client relationships and established itself as a trusted partner for brands looking to engage with both local and global audiences.
(03)Founder'sMotive
The Why Behind The Sale
The founder of CGPR is seeking a strategic partner to help scale the agency’s growth. Having established a strong reputation in the active lifestyle and outdoor recreation industries, the founder believes the right acquirer can help expand the agency’s reach and accelerate its service offerings, particularly in the growing demand for government affairs and outdoor brand expansion. The founder and the team are committed to remaining with the agency post-acquisition, ensuring a smooth transition and continued growth of the business. The founder is excited about finding a partner who can bring additional resources and strategic guidance to the table.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The ideal buyer for CGPR is an agency or firm with strong operational capabilities and the ability to expand CGPR’s client base within the active lifestyle and outdoor sectors. The buyer should have a proven track record in public relations, marketing, and brand management, ideally with experience working with B2C and lifestyle brands. With 90% of revenue coming from retainer-based contracts, CGPR’s business model provides a stable and recurring revenue stream, making it an attractive investment for a buyer looking for a solid and sustainable business. The ideal buyer should also be able to leverage CGPR’s unique strengths in crisis management, media relations, and government affairs to further grow and enhance its position in the marketplace.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing CGPR for Acquisition
Merge highlighted CGPR’s impressive track record of success in the active lifestyle space, with a client base that spans across industries such as sports, apparel, health, and wellness. With long-term retainers making up 90% of the agency’s revenue, Merge emphasized CGPR’s ability to maintain solid and steady cash flow while fostering enduring client relationships. The agency’s deep expertise in media relations, crisis management, and influencer engagement further positioned CGPR as a valuable asset for potential buyers. Merge also showcased CGPR’s ability to deliver measurable results, including successful media coverage and high-impact brand awareness campaigns.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of CGPR for Acquisition
Merge positioned CGPR as a high-growth agency with an exceptional reputation in the outdoor recreation and active lifestyle sectors. By emphasizing the agency’s unique expertise in crisis communications, media strategy, and public relations, Merge attracted several interested buyers. CGPR’s proven ability to manage complex, high-stakes situations and work with top-tier brands made it an appealing target for firms looking to expand their presence in the active lifestyle and sports industries.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
The acquisition of CGPR by Off Madison Ave was a strategic alignment benefiting both organizations. Off Madison Ave, an integrated marketing and communications agency known for its strategic creativity, recognized CGPR’s deep expertise in public relations, crisis management, and media relations within the active lifestyle and outdoor recreation industries. By acquiring CGPR, Off Madison Ave expanded its capabilities, strengthened its industry-specific communications offerings, and enhanced its portfolio of premium consumer brands. The cultural synergy between the two agencies facilitated a seamless integration, positioning CGPR for accelerated growth and expanded market opportunities under Off Madison Ave’s leadership.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Since the acquisition, CGPR has successfully leveraged the buyer’s resources to scale operations, enhance its service offerings, and expand its client base. The buyer’s additional support and infrastructure have enabled CGPR to increase its marketing capabilities and take on larger projects, while still maintaining the personalized service for which it is known. With a more robust team and additional resources, CGPR is now better positioned to grow its client base and expand into new markets, ensuring sustained success.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a crucial role in identifying the right buyer for CGPR. Through expert matchmaking, strategic guidance, and tailored negotiations, Merge ensured a smooth acquisition process that aligned with both parties’ long-term growth objectives. By positioning CGPR’s strengths in media relations, crisis management, and government affairs, Merge helped secure a buyer who could take the agency to the next level while maintaining its unique position within the active lifestyle sector. The successful acquisition highlights Merge’s ability to connect high-potential agencies with the right buyers, ensuring long-term growth and value creation.