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SMA
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires SMA for growth.
Founded in 2013, SMA is a New York based full-service creative agency serving B2B organizations across professional services, higher education, legal, and technology sectors. Blending brand strategy, content development, media, and business consulting, SMA built a reputation for delivering fully integrated campaigns that drive both brand and demand. Over time, the agency produced award-winning work for national brands including BDO, Brother International, Monroe College, Bay State University, Kyocera, and Legal Resources, while continuing to evolve its digital capabilities to compete with top-tier agencies.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Social Media, Creative Content Development, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Under $10M, Branding & Creative, Content Marketing, Marketing & Advertising, Media & Content Production, Performance Marketing, Professional Services
- Buyer Type Strategic Acquirer
- Deal Size Under $10M
- Services Valuation & Market Positioning, Buyer Targeting & Outreach, Offer & Negotiation Support, Due Diligence Management, Closing & Transition Support
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
Who Is SMA?
SMA operates as a fully integrated marketing partner, supporting clients through brand development, creative campaign strategy, video and film production, digital and social content, business consulting, and media planning and buying. The agency’s model is rooted in close collaboration, with strategy, creative, production, and media working together to solve complex business challenges. Its hybrid workforce and scalable freelance network allowed SMA to remain agile while maintaining a high standard of delivery across every engagement.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
President and primary shareholder Bob Rose spent more than a decade growing SMA into a respected agency with deep client relationships and a strong reputation in the B2B space. As the market evolved and the agency navigated periods of change, Bob began exploring what the next chapter could look like for the business. While SMA remained anchored by a long-standing agency-of-record relationship with BDO, Bob recognized the opportunity to partner with a buyer who could bring new momentum, expanded resources, and a broader platform for growth.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
For Bob, the right buyer needed to understand the value of integrated marketing, long-term client partnerships, and a hands-on, collaborative culture. It was important that SMA’s people, processes, and client relationships were respected and preserved. The ideal partner would bring operational scale and business development support while allowing SMA’s leadership and creative teams to continue delivering work with the same care and strategic depth.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing SMA for Acquisition
To prepare SMA for market, Merge highlighted the agency’s long-standing anchor client relationship, its award-winning portfolio, and its ability to embed deeply within client organizations. The business was positioned as a well-established agency with a resilient revenue model built on retainers, media commissions, and production margins. Its lean structure, experienced leadership, and scalable delivery model made SMA an attractive platform for a strategic buyer seeking both stability and growth potential.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of SMA for Acquisition
Merge marketed SMA as a trusted creative and media partner with proven expertise in high-touch B2B engagements. Buyers were drawn to the agency’s collaborative approach, senior leadership involvement, and reputation for delivering thoughtful, results-driven work. Although the business had experienced client concentration and revenue shifts in recent years, its strong foundation and long-term client relationships signaled meaningful opportunity for expansion under the right ownership.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
SMA was acquired by Bray & Co, a strategic buyer aligned with SMA’s integrated service model and client-first philosophy. The partnership created continuity for SMA’s clients and team while opening the door to new operational support, business development capabilities, and long-term growth within a larger platform.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, SMA became part of a broader organization positioned to support expansion, diversification, and collaboration. With additional infrastructure and resources behind it, the agency is now better equipped to grow its client base, expand service offerings, and deepen existing relationships while maintaining the culture and creative standards that defined its success.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided SMA through a founder-first acquisition process focused on alignment, continuity, and long-term opportunity. Through thoughtful positioning, targeted buyer outreach, and hands-on transaction support, Merge helped place SMA with a partner that honors its legacy and supports its next chapter of growth with Bray & Co.
Bloom Network
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Bloom Network for growth.
Founded in 2020, Bloom Network was a boutique influencer talent management agency specializing in lifestyle, motherhood, and wellness creators across the U.S. Known for its ethical, high-touch approach to influencer management, the agency represented a curated roster of female influencers, guiding every aspect of their brand partnerships—from negotiation to performance analytics. With a commission-only revenue model, strong inbound referrals, and a reputation for transparency, Bloom Network quickly built trust in a competitive space. After years of steady organic growth, the agency sought out a strategic partner to fuel the next stage of expansion.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Female Founded, Under $10M, Marketing & Advertising, Media & Content Production, PR & Communications, Social Media & Influencer
- Buyer Type Strategic Acquirer
- Deal Size Under $10M
- Services Valuation & Market Positioning, Buyer Targeting & Outreach, Offer & Negotiation Support, Due Diligence Management, Closing & Transition Support
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
Who Is Bloom Network?
Bloom Network carved out a distinct position in the influencer marketing world by focusing on mission-driven content creators who valued authentic audience relationships. The agency supported talent with 50K+ Instagram followers or 100K+ on TikTok or YouTube, helping them secure and manage partnerships that aligned with their personal brand and growth goals. From negotiation and campaign coordination to analytics and renewals, Bloom provided white-glove service to ensure both creators and brands achieved results. With over 40 influencers and 170 brand partnerships in the final year alone, Bloom earned a reputation as a go-to partner for both talent and marketers.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
Kate Shaw launched Bloom after working on the brand side of influencer campaigns—and spotting the need for a more honest, relationship-first approach to talent management. She built Bloom on word-of-mouth referrals, winning trust by advocating for creators and delivering strong outcomes. Kate was ready to find a strategic partner who shared her values and could help take the agency to the next level with more support and operational resources. She remained open to staying on post-sale to ensure a smooth transition and continue fueling the agency’s growth.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
Kate wasn’t just looking for a buyer—she was looking for a partner who aligned with Bloom’s culture of transparency, trust, and quality. The ideal acquirer would understand the influencer space and bring complementary strengths, such as operations, sales infrastructure, or connections to new brand categories. Someone who could help scale the team, expand Bloom’s niche offerings, and preserve what made the agency special: its ethical foundation and close-knit client relationships.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Bloom Network for Acquisition
To position Bloom for sale, Merge highlighted the agency’s reliable commission-based revenue, strong influencer retention, and organic lead flow. With a 3.2x EBITDA multiple and a clear growth runway, Bloom stood out as a well-run business with major upside. The agency’s lean team and systems-driven operations made it easy to scale without sacrificing service quality. With minimal client concentration, high gross margins, and 100% recurring influencer contracts, the business offered buyers a strong foundation and clean financial profile.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Bloom Network for Acquisition
Merge marketed Bloom as a premium influencer management agency with deep roots in lifestyle and wellness—two of the most in-demand influencer categories. The positioning emphasized Kate’s dual experience (brand and talent side), the agency’s ethical practices, and strong inbound brand interest. Buyers in the digital marketing, talent management, and creator economy spaces expressed strong interest, particularly those looking to expand into the influencer vertical with a team and platform already in place.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
The buyer who emerged as the best fit was Nick Blake, the current CEO of Cascade Growth. He saw Bloom’s potential as a springboard into the fast-growing influencer economy. With complementary strengths in operations and media, Nick recognized the opportunity to support Bloom with more resources while keeping the core team and culture intact. With Kate staying on, the deal included a transition plan to ensure continuity and unlock long-term growth.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Post-sale, Bloom is already benefiting from new tech tools, expanded service offerings, and stronger brand partnerships. The team has grown to support more influencers, and Bloom is exploring new verticals like travel, fashion, and affiliate marketing. With improved backend support and business development resources, the agency is scaling while staying true to its values. Kate remains at the helm, continuing to drive strategy and nurture relationships with talent..
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a central role in helping Bloom define its market story, identify aligned buyers, and guide the process from start to finish. From surfacing the right suitors to navigating diligence and deal structuring, Merge ensured the transaction reflected Kate’s vision and protected what she had built. With the right partner now in place, Bloom Network is poised for its next chapter—ready to grow, expand, and keep making a difference for creators who trust them.
Origin Agency
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Origin Agency for growth.
Founded in 2007 in St. Louis, Origin Agency is a marketing agency specializing in retail and promotional marketing for beverage brands—particularly spirits, wine, and non-alcoholic alternatives. Origin was launched by founders Julie Wood, Michelle Thomas, and Lance Thomas after leaving large agencies to build a flatter, more efficient model. The agency offers campaign development, merchandising, branding and packaging, advertising, and in-house photography. With deep integration at major clients like Pernod Ricard USA, Gallo, Proximo Spirits, and Ritual Zero Proof, Origin is consistently ranked among their top agencies for creativity, account service, and adaptability.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Marketing & Advertising, Social Media & Influencer, Media & Content Production, Market Research, Content Marketing, Branding & Creative, Under $10M, Female Founded, Creative Content Development, Social Media
- 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 The
Enterprise
Who Is Origin Agency?
Origin Agency is a full-service creative partner that helps beverage brands stand out across retail, digital, and experiential channels. Their expertise spans the entire consumer journey, including shopper marketing, seasonal retail audits, packaging design, and in-house photography. The team works hand-in-hand with clients to develop cohesive strategies that engage consumers both in-store and online. With a strong reputation for creative execution and operational efficiency, Origin has become an indispensable partner for tier-one beverage companies.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
The founders of Origin were seeking a partner to help scale the agency beyond its boutique structure. Their goals included reducing the operational and administrative burden on leadership, securing a succession plan that protected their employees and clients, and positioning the agency for growth into adjacent categories such as craft beer and non-alcoholic beverages. They also wanted to explore efficiencies through AI and new technologies while ensuring cultural alignment with any future buyer.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The founders were looking for a buyer who could provide the infrastructure, resources, and leadership needed to expand Origin’s already strong foundation. The ideal fit was a partner who shared their passion for the beverage industry and could bring additional scale and operational expertise without disrupting the agency’s culture. Preserving creative autonomy, supporting employees, and strengthening client relationships were critical factors in the search.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Origin Agency for Acquisition
To position Origin as an attractive acquisition target, Merge emphasized its recurring 75% retainer-based revenue model, long-standing partnerships with global beverage leaders, and strong profitability with $3.3M in revenue and $1.15M EBITDA at a 4.1x multiple. Merge also highlighted the agency’s reputation for creativity, its in-house capabilities like photography, and its industry-leading seasonal retail audits, which consistently generate both client retention and new business opportunities.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Origin Agency for Acquisition
Merge positioned Origin as a high-performing creative agency with a niche focus on the beverage sector. By showcasing its strong relationships with leading spirits and wine brands and its proven ability to deliver award-winning campaigns, Merge attracted multiple interested parties. Buyers were particularly drawn to Origin’s scalable business model, recurring revenue streams, and highly integrated client relationships.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
The buyer was a group of entrepreneurs with agency, HR, and consulting backgrounds who shared a strong cultural alignment with Origin’s leadership. They saw the opportunity to take Origin to the next level by investing in infrastructure and leveraging the agency’s expertise and client base. The founders rolled equity and remain active in the business, ensuring continuity for employees and clients. The acquisition gave the buyer immediate access to deep expertise and relationships in the beverage sector while providing Origin with a platform for growth into non-alc, craft beer, and broader CPG.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Since the acquisition, Origin has been positioned to expand into new categories while continuing to serve its core beverage clients at the highest level. With the buyer’s operational support, the agency is exploring new efficiencies, including AI-driven processes, while broadening its footprint across CPG verticals. The founders’ continued involvement ensures consistency in client relationships and creative execution, while the buyer brings the infrastructure to fuel long-term growth.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a critical role in identifying the right partner for Origin. Through thoughtful positioning, targeted outreach, and expert negotiation, Merge connected the founders with a culturally aligned buyer who shared their vision for growth. By balancing the agency’s need for scale with its commitment to creativity and culture, Merge secured a transaction that empowers Origin to thrive in its next chapter.
Punch PR
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Punch PR for growth.
Founded in 2009, Punch PR is a Milwaukee-based public relations agency specializing in media relations, influencer marketing, and brand activations. Built by co-founders Lauren Grimm and David Racine, the agency earned a reputation for crafting tailored, results-driven campaigns for clients like Fromm Family Foods, KEEN Utility, and Generac. Known for its long-standing client relationships and 90% retainer-based revenue model, Punch PR combined creative strategy with operational stability through a lean, experienced team of seven. After more than a decade of consistent performance, Punch PR was acquired by Trozzolo Communications Group, a values-aligned agency looking to expand its footprint in Milwaukee and continue delivering integrated, high-impact communications work across the Midwest.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Public Relations, PR & Communications, Media & Content Production, Marketing & Advertising, Content Marketing, Branding & Creative, Female Founded, Creative Content 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 The
Enterprise
Who Is Punch PR?
With complementary backgrounds in media relations, communications, and event production, co-founders Lauren Grimm and David Racine created Punch PR as a trusted, high-performing agency grounded in strategy and measurable results. Headquartered in Milwaukee, the firm quickly built a name for itself in the Midwest and beyond by delivering standout work in media relations, influencer marketing, and brand activations. The agency’s success was driven by a lean team of seven, a commitment to long-term client relationships, and an impressive portfolio featuring brands like Fromm Family Foods, KEEN Utility, and Generac. With 90% of revenue generated from recurring retainers, Punch PR’s business model offered stability, predictability, and room to scale.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
The founders of Punch PR were looking to take some chips off the table while securing a partner that could help expand opportunities for both their team and their clients. They also wanted to join forces with a broader leadership team that shared their values and vision. Both Lauren and David were committed to staying on and continuing to guide client strategy and agency direction post-sale.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
Lauren and David were seeking a buyer that could offer broader leadership support while maintaining Punch PR’s culture and client-first approach. The ideal partner would have a strong Midwest presence, a commitment to team development, and a collaborative mindset that aligned with Punch PR’s values and long-term vision.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Punch PR for Acquisition
To prepare the agency for market, Merge highlighted Punch PR’s financial performance—$1.03M in revenue and $182K in EBITDA—alongside its high client retention rate and retainer-based model. The agency was valued at $650K based on a 3.6x multiple of EBITDA. Punch PR was positioned as a mission-driven agency with a stellar track record and a team eager to scale. Opportunities for growth through outbound lead generation, expanded service offerings, and enhanced business development capabilities helped drive buyer interest.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Punch PR for Acquisition
Merge marketed Punch PR as a rare opportunity to acquire a well-respected PR agency with long-standing client relationships and a highly engaged leadership team. The firm’s presence in the Midwest, coupled with its reputation in sectors like CPG and energy, attracted attention from buyers seeking to deepen their geographic and industry reach.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
Punch PR was acquired by Trozzolo Communications Group, a values-aligned agency with complementary services and a desire to grow its presence in Milwaukee. Lauren and David remained on board to help integrate operations and expand client services, making the transition seamless.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Since the acquisition, both agencies have benefited from shared resources, new business development opportunities, and an expanded talent bench. Punch PR has continued to operate under its own brand while tapping into Trozzolo’s broader network, unlocking new opportunities for growth across the region.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge worked closely with Punch PR to craft a narrative that resonated with the right buyers, facilitated a smooth diligence process, and negotiated a deal that met the founders’ goals. By staying focused on cultural fit and long-term potential, Merge helped Punch PR find a new home that values both its past and future.
Kitcaster
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Kitcaster for growth.
Founded in 2019, Kitcaster is a leading podcast booking agency based in Denver, Colorado, specializing in strategic guest placements for B2B clients including SaaS founders, C-suite leaders, and VC-backed executives. Known for its highly tailored process and white-glove service model, Kitcaster built its reputation by securing top-tier podcast appearances that drive brand visibility and thought leadership. With a strong internal operations team and 100% retainer-based revenue model, Kitcaster developed scalable systems and a loyal client base across the startup and enterprise landscape. After years of steady growth, Kitcaster was acquired by Moburst, a global mobile marketing agency, to enhance their PR offerings and continue building on Kitcaster’s momentum.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Female Founded, Under $10M, Content Marketing, Marketing & Advertising, Media & Content Production, Podcast Production, PR & Communications
- 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 The
Enterprise
Who Is Kitcaster?
Kitcaster carved out a unique niche in the podcasting world by serving executive-level B2B clients looking to grow their presence through long-form, high-impact interviews. Clients typically include tech founders, entrepreneurs with notable exits, and corporate innovators. The agency offers a turnkey experience—from building custom media pages to securing a minimum of 18 podcast appearances over a six-month period. Every engagement is supported by short-form content production and media prep services that enhance impact and positioning.
By 2024, Kitcaster was working with over 150 active clients and averaging $1.1M in annual revenue, all on monthly retainers. With strong inbound lead generation and a proprietary database of 8,000+ podcasts, the team had built an efficient engine for high-quality placement and campaign delivery. This process, coupled with a client-centric culture and deep expertise in storytelling, made Kitcaster a leader in the growing podcast PR space.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
Kitcaster’s co-founders, Brandy and Ryan, had built something truly special—and knew the next chapter required more resources, leadership support, and access to complementary capabilities. They were seeking a buyer that could help scale the agency while preserving its values and high-touch client approach. Their goal was to join a larger ecosystem where Kitcaster’s team could thrive, and where they could continue to play an active role during a meaningful transition.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
Brandy and Ryan wanted a partner who could accelerate Kitcaster’s growth without disrupting what made it great: its team, culture, and client-first mentality. Their ideal buyer had experience in PR or adjacent verticals and could bring operational support, team development opportunities, and new distribution channels for Kitcaster’s services. Cultural fit was a must—they were looking for shared values, not just a good financial deal.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Kitcaster for Acquisition
To position Kitcaster for sale, Merge focused on the agency’s unique market niche, operational efficiency, and strong customer economics. The business stood out for its scalable, process-driven service delivery, with a 100% recurring revenue model.. By highlighting Kitcaster’s clean financials, low owner involvement, and loyal client base, Merge showcased the opportunity for a strategic buyer to step in and scale quickly.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Kitcaster for Acquisition
Merge marketed Kitcaster as the go-to agency in the podcast placement category, a rapidly growing segment of PR. The positioning emphasized Kitcaster’s streamlined client experience, niche B2B focus, and strong operational backbone. This narrative attracted interest from buyers in media, PR, and digital marketing. Moburst—who had recently acquired Uproar through Merge—quickly emerged as the best fit. They were actively seeking to deepen their PR capabilities and saw Kitcaster as a perfect bolt-on.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
The acquisition by Moburst brought immediate value to both parties. Kitcaster gained access to a broader suite of marketing services and growth infrastructure, while Moburst expanded its service offerings and talent base. Importantly, Brandy and Ryan stayed on for the transition, ensuring continuity and alignment. With complementary cultures and aligned visions, the integration has been smooth, productive, and filled with new growth opportunities.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Since the acquisition, Moburst has already begun integrating Kitcaster’s podcast placement services into its broader PR campaigns—creating a seamless, multi-channel offering for both legacy and new clients. Kitcaster’s team has benefitted from expanded professional development opportunities and cross-functional collaboration. The partnership has unlocked exciting potential for global expansion, additional content services, and a broader footprint in the B2B communications space.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a central role in identifying the right buyer, crafting a compelling market narrative, and guiding both sides through the deal. From positioning Kitcaster as the top agency in a high-growth vertical to aligning the seller’s goals with Moburst’s acquisition strategy, Merge helped ensure this was a win-win for everyone involved. The result is a thriving agency that’s now part of a larger vision—continuing to grow and create impact in the podcasting and PR world.