(01)EngagementOverview
Strategic buyer acquires Golden Word for growth.
Founded in 2016, Golden Word is a premier PR agency specializing in media relations, influencer outreach, and social media management for lifestyle brands in the food and beverage, design, and consumer packaged goods (CPG) sectors. The agency’s unique approach to storytelling and brand positioning has helped clients secure high-profile placements in top-tier media outlets like CNBC, The New York Times, and Southern Living Magazine. With a 95% retainer-based revenue model and a strong roster of national clients, Golden Word is poised for significant growth. The agency is now seeking a strategic acquisition partner to help expand its offerings and elevate the business to the next level.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Digital Product & Web Development, SEO, Paid Media & Lead Generation
- 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 Golden Word?
Golden Word is a dynamic and creative PR agency that excels at crafting impactful media strategies for lifestyle brands. Specializing in earned media, influencer relations, and social media engagement, the agency has built a strong reputation for delivering results that go beyond traditional PR efforts. Golden Word has secured numerous press placements, including regular appearances on CNBC during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. With a focus on building personal relationships with the media, the agency ensures that each pitch resonates with journalists and outlets. Golden Word also provides comprehensive social media management services, helping brands develop creative content and foster active community engagement across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
(03)Founder'sMotive
The Why Behind The Sale
The founder of Golden Word is seeking a strategic partner to support the agency’s growth and expand its service offerings. Having successfully built a trusted PR agency, the founder recognizes the need for additional resources to scale the business effectively. The founder is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and remains enthusiastic about continuing to contribute to the business in a leadership role. The goal is to find a partner who shares Golden Word’s vision, appreciates its creative autonomy, and has the infrastructure to support expansion into new verticals.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The ideal acquisition partner for Golden Word is an agency or firm with experience scaling PR and media agencies, ideally with a focus on lifestyle brands. The right buyer should be able to provide operational support, resources, and leadership to help Golden Word expand into new markets, particularly hospitality and destination marketing. It is crucial that the buyer appreciates Golden Word’s creative culture and maintains the agency’s high standards of service. The ideal partner should also be committed to further developing Golden Word’s social media offerings and enhancing its already strong inbound marketing capabilities.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Golden Word for Acquisition
To position Golden Word as an attractive acquisition target, Merge emphasized the agency’s impressive portfolio, strong financials, and loyal client base. The agency’s 95% retainer-based revenue model and impressive client relationships were key selling points. Merge also highlighted Golden Word’s unique ability to secure high-profile media placements and its deep expertise in social media strategy. The agency’s proven track record and innovative approach made it an appealing target for buyers looking to expand into the lifestyle brand PR space.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Golden Word for Acquisition
Merge marketed Golden Word as a high-growth PR agency with strong capabilities in earned media, influencer marketing, and social media management. By showcasing the agency’s strong client base, impressive media placements, and consistent results, Merge attracted multiple interested buyers. The agency’s ability to connect clients with top-tier media outlets and influencers made it a prime target for firms looking to expand their PR and media services. Merge successfully attracted a buyer who shared Golden Word’s commitment to creativity, client service, and growth.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
The acquisition of Golden Word by 5th Business was a strategic move benefiting both parties. 5th Business recognized Golden Word’s expertise in earned media, influencer outreach, and social media management as an ideal complement to its existing offerings. The acquisition enabled 5th Business to expand into new sectors such as hospitality and destination marketing, leveraging Golden Word’s creative strategies and strong client relationships. A seamless cultural fit facilitated a smooth integration, empowering Golden Word to scale its services and deepen its impact within lifestyle brands.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Since the acquisition, Golden Word has been able to scale its operations, expand its service offerings, and enter new markets. Leveraging 5th Business’s resources and sales infrastructure, Golden Word has increased client acquisition and streamlined operations. The agency’s PR and media relations division has continued to thrive, with additional services like influencer outreach and social media management expanding under the buyer’s support. The partnership has allowed Golden Word to maintain its creative vision while capitalizing on new opportunities for growth and market expansion.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a crucial role in identifying the right buyer for Golden Word. By strategically positioning the agency’s strengths, negotiating favorable deal terms, and facilitating the acquisition process, Merge helped secure a partner who could scale Golden Word’s operations and expand its service offerings. The successful transaction highlights Merge’s expertise in connecting high-growth PR agencies with the right buyers, ensuring long-term growth and value creation. Through this acquisition, Golden Word found a new home where it could continue to thrive and build on its strong foundation.