ELMNTL was co-founded in 2016 by Marc Liu, Onur Kiyak, and Romey Louangvilay, rising as a beacon in the digital marketing sector with its focus on hospitality and tourism. This Asian-American led, diverse agency combined industry expertise with innovative strategies to build brands and create memorable experiences.

Inside the Enterprise: Who Is ELMNTL?

ELMNTL recognized for its award-winning work, was built on a foundation of clarity and impact, driving growth for both their clients and themselves. Their unique ability to craft stories that authentically connect with diverse audiences, coupled with a commitment to driving meaningful business growth, positions ELMNTL as a leader in creating comprehensive and impactful brand experiences.

Founder’s Motive: The Why Behind the Sale

Despite their success, the founders sought a partner to help ELMNTL expand its global footprint, client base, and talent pool. With Onur Kiyak leaving to pursue his venture and Marc Liu and Romey Louangvilay eager to elevate the agency to new heights without exiting, they partnered with Merge to find the right support to realize ELMNTL’s full potential.

Founder’s Vision: Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit

Marc and Romey were in search of a partner who could align with ELMNTL’s cultural values and key goals, aiming to enhance the agency’s global presence and expertise, especially in their focused industries of hospitality and tourism. Their ideal buyer would understand and support ELMNTL’s unique position and aspirations within the digital marketing landscape.

Setting the Stage: Preparing ELMNTL for Acquisition

ELMNTL stood out with its diverse team and global offices, committed to innovation, teamwork, and excellence. Their work with notable clients like UFC and the Tourism Authority of Thailand showcased their ability to deliver integrated services and create meaningful brand connections.

Attracting Suitors: Strategic Marketing of ELMNTL for Acquisition

Leveraging ELMNTL’s unique value proposition, award-winning portfolio, and commitment to diversity, Merge set out to attract a buyer who would not only respect the agency’s legacy but also contribute to its future growth. The search was focused on finding a partner that matched ELMNTL’s ambitious goals and cultural ethos.

Sealing the Deal: Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer

Iron Horse Venture Group, with its balanced expertise in creative and digital marketing, emerged as the perfect fit for ELMNTL. This partnership promised to extend ELMNTL’s capabilities and reach, guided by Iron Horse’s interest in nurturing ELMNTL’s innovative spirit and expanding its offerings.

Unlocking Synergies: Positive Impacts Post-Transaction

Under the leadership of Ron Vernon from Iron Horse, ELMNTL was poised to explore new avenues of growth, including expanding its service offerings and leveraging Iron Horse’s resources to achieve its strategic goals. This partnership was seen as a stepping stone to further ELMNTL’s impact and success in the digital marketing arena.

Finding a New Home: The Merge Difference

Merge played a crucial role in identifying and securing a partner that aligned with ELMNTL’s vision and values, demonstrating a deep understanding of the agency’s unique position in the market. The collaboration with Iron Horse Venture Group was not just an acquisition but a partnership that respected ELMNTL’s legacy while propelling it towards new opportunities for innovation and growth.