Founded in 2011 by Kelsey Raymond, Influence & Co emerged as a trailblazing content marketing agency with a woman-led team. The agency was born out of a need for more effective PR and marketing strategies that drive measurable business results. Specializing in strategic content marketing, Influence & Co has spent over a decade simplifying content marketing for companies, strategizing, creating, publishing, and maximizing content to drive tangible outcomes.

Inside the Enterprise: Who Is Influence & Co?

Influence & Co sets itself apart in the content marketing arena with its unique focus on developing and executing content strategies that directly contribute to clients’ business goals, particularly in lead generation and SEO. Their distinct methodology, combining custom technology with access to a vast network of publications, enables them to craft industry-leading content that elevates their clients’ thought leadership and digital presence.

Founder’s Motive: The Why Behind the Sale

Kelsey Raymond was not seeking a typical exit but rather a growth partner for Influence & Co. She envisioned a future where her team could continue to flourish and where cross-selling opportunities with a strategic partner would capitalize on the agency’s significant growth potential. Kelsey reached out to Merge for their expertise in matching agencies with ideal partners that align with their cultural, strategic, and financial objectives.

Founder’s Vision: Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit

Kelsey’s ideal buyer for Influence & Co was one that resonated with the agency’s culture and ethos. She sought a partner who understood the business, shared a commitment to the agency’s growth, and could provide opportunities for her team to reach their full potential.

Setting the Stage: Preparing Influence & Co for Acquisition

Influence & Co thrived under its results-driven content marketing approach, earning a reputation as an industry leader, especially in the mobile video game space. With proprietary technologies like MultiVid and LaunchPad enhancing their service offerings, the agency was in a prime position to grow further under new leadership.

Attracting Suitors: Strategic Marketing of Influence & Co for Acquisition

Partnering with Merge, Kelsey aimed to find the perfect buyer for Influence & Co. Utilizing their extensive network and deep understanding of the agency market, Merge showcased Influence & Co’s unique value proposition, attracting potential buyers who could appreciate and enhance the agency’s established success.

Sealing the Deal: Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer

The ideal acquisition partner for Influence & Co was found in Everlane Equity, a private capital provider with a portfolio of complementary companies. Everlane Equity’s commitment to accelerating value creation and its network of aligned businesses promised a synergistic future for Influence & Co.

Unlocking Synergies: Positive Impacts Post-Transaction

The acquisition by Everlane Equity opened new doors for Influence & Co, enabling the agency to tap into cross-selling opportunities and benefit from Everlane’s industry expertise and resources. This strategic partnership was set to enhance Influence & Co’s service offerings and market reach, fostering significant growth.

Finding a New Home: The Merge Difference

Merge played an integral role in facilitating this acquisition, ensuring that Influence & Co found a new home where its potential for growth and innovation would be maximized. Their strategic approach and tailored acquisition process reflected their commitment to facilitating successful, synergistic business matches in the digital marketing industry.