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EngineRoom
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires EngineRoom for growth.
Founded in 2013, EngineRoom is an Australia-based growth marketing agency and technology platform specializing in digital strategy, SEO, paid search, web experience, and AI-driven advisory for leads-based businesses. Over more than a decade, the agency built a deeply recurring client base across home improvement, automotive, healthcare, legal, and industrial sectors, becoming known for its proprietary EngineRoom Platform, which unifies marketing, CRM, and financial data to link marketing investment directly to business outcomes. With highly recurring revenue, multi-year average client tenure, and repeated Best Place to Work recognition, EngineRoom established itself as one of Australia’s most operationally mature and culturally distinctive growth marketing businesses.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category AI & Automation, Data & Analytics, Performance Marketing, SaaS & MarTech, Under $10M
- 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 EngineRoom?
EngineRoom operates as a growth partner rather than a traditional agency, combining Advisory, Agency, and Technology capabilities under one integrated model. The proprietary platform and AI CoPilot differentiate the business from execution-only agencies by closing the gap between marketing investment and revenue outcomes. Clients are predominantly SMEs and mid-market organizations across Australia that treat marketing as a commercial investment and expect transparency around ROI. The agency operates fully distributed, with Australian payroll employees supported by Employer of Record team members across multiple international locations, all integrated into unified systems and delivery workflows.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After more than a decade of building EngineRoom, founder Adam Laurie and his co-founders began exploring opportunities to find a strategic partner that could accelerate the commercialization and global scale of the agency’s proprietary AI platform, something that would have been significantly more difficult to achieve independently. The founders believed a larger organization with an established customer base and distribution infrastructure could unlock substantially more value from the platform while continuing to grow the core agency business.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
For EngineRoom, the ideal acquirer needed to understand AI-driven technology, recurring revenue models, and the strategic value of connecting marketing intelligence to business outcomes. Preserving the agency’s platform roadmap, delivery standards, and strong team culture was essential. The right partner would bring an established customer base, distribution capabilities, and the infrastructure to commercialize the EngineRoom Platform at scale.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing EngineRoom for Acquisition
To prepare EngineRoom for market, Merge positioned the agency as a rare combination of a highly recurring, operationally mature marketing business and a differentiated AI platform with clear commercialization potential. The business stood out for its retainer-based revenue model, long-term client relationships, proprietary AI CoPilot technology, and a diversified client base with no single client representing an outsized share of revenue. EngineRoom’s expanding margins and award-winning culture further reinforced its strength as a platform-ready acquisition target.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of EngineRoom for Acquisition
Merge marketed EngineRoom as a compelling opportunity to acquire a technology-enabled growth marketing business with deeply recurring revenue, a proprietary AI platform, and a proven methodology. Buyers were drawn to the combination of stable, predictable cash flow and significant platform upside, including the potential to license the EngineRoom Platform as a standalone SaaS product to agencies and end-user businesses globally. The agency’s consistent Best Place to Work recognition, distributed operational model, and committed leadership team made the opportunity especially attractive to buyers seeking continuity alongside growth.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
EngineRoom was acquired by CXAI, an AI-powered platform company focused on workplace operations and organizational intelligence. The acquisition strategically expanded CXAI’s AI capabilities with EngineRoom’s proprietary growth intelligence technology, highly recurring revenue base, and established mid-market customer relationships. By combining CXAI’s focus on AI-powered workplace operations with EngineRoom’s expertise in AI-driven marketing and customer acquisition, the combined organization created a more comprehensive AI operating platform designed to help organizations improve both operational efficiency and commercial performance.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, EngineRoom gained access to CXAI’s established customer base, distribution infrastructure, and resources to accelerate the commercialization and global licensing of the EngineRoom Platform. The partnership created immediate cross-sell opportunities across both customer bases, and together the combined organization is positioned to grow recurring software revenue while delivering a more integrated AI operating platform to organizations globally.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided EngineRoom through a strategic, founder-focused acquisition process centered on platform value, long-term alignment, and finding a partner capable of unlocking the full potential of the agency’s technology. Through targeted buyer outreach, thoughtful positioning, and hands-on transaction support, Merge helped EngineRoom find the right strategic home with CXAI. The result is a strengthened AI platform business built to serve organizations globally with integrated intelligence across marketing, growth, and workplace operations.
The frank Agency
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires The frank Agency for growth.
Founded in 1981 by Frank Weyforth in Kansas, The frank Agency is a remote-first performance marketing agency specializing in paid search, SEO, social media, website design and development, and creative and branding, with deep concentration in healthcare and dental clients. What began as a direct-response shop running targeted direct-mail and retail programs for major commercial trucking and vehicle brands like Navistar, Freightliner, and Peterbilt evolved over four decades into a full-service digital agency built around measurable outcomes. Today, with the majority of revenue coming from healthcare and dental clients and a fully retainer-based model, the agency has established itself as a dependable, full-funnel marketing partner known for long-tenured client relationships and a scalable U.S. and Pakistan delivery model.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Branding & Creative, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Performance Marketing, SEO, Social Media & Influencer, Under $10M, Web Design & Development
- Buyer Type Solo Entrepreneurs
- 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 The frank Agency?
The frank Agency operates as a strategy-led, performance-driven partner that often serves as a client’s primary marketing resource rather than a project-by-project vendor. A senior U.S. leadership team sets strategy and department direction, while an experienced offshore team works U.S. hours to deliver paid media, SEO, and development work. The agency runs on a suite of proprietary tools, including frankPulse for workflow and profitability tracking, frankPPC Analyst for AI-supported paid media analysis, and SinglePage SEO for AI-enabled auditing and lead generation. These systems give the agency real-time visibility into tasks, margins, and reporting across every account.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After more than 30 years building and leading The frank Agency, Owner Tony Ali felt it was the right time to begin transitioning ownership. His primary objective was finding the right successor who would preserve the agency’s culture, take care of its employees and clients, and position the business for long-term success. Tony also wanted to support his wife, Susan Ali, who works in the business and was ready to retire, making it important that the agency be left in capable hands and set up properly for its next chapter.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
Tony wanted a buyer who could step into the leadership roles he and Susan had built over decades without disrupting the team or client relationships that made the agency successful. He sought successors who shared the same values around client service, employee care, and long-term stewardship, and who brought complementary skill sets that mapped naturally onto the business’s existing structure, with one partner suited to strategic and business leadership and the other suited to client-facing and operational work.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing The frank Agency for Acquisition
To prepare The frank Agency for market, Merge positioned the business as a highly specialized, founder-independent performance marketing agency with deep vertical expertise in healthcare and dental. The business stood out for its fully retainer-based revenue model, accelerating year-over-year growth, and a proprietary technology stack that standardized workflow, pricing, and reporting. Department-head-led delivery across SEO, paid media, social, creative, and development meant the agency could run smoothly without daily owner involvement, a key selling point for a business built for a clean ownership transition.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of The frank Agency for Acquisition
Merge marketed The frank Agency as a rare opportunity to acquire a profitable, four-decade-old agency with predictable recurring revenue and a defensible niche in healthcare and dental marketing. Buyers were drawn to the agency’s low-risk billing model, since media is prepaid or billed directly by clients, keeping cash flow clean, as well as its scalable U.S. and Pakistan delivery structure and clear whitespace for growth in secondary verticals like financial services, education, and home services. The opportunity was especially compelling for buyers with marketing backgrounds looking to step directly into an established leadership structure rather than build one from scratch.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
The frank Agency was acquired by Edwin Vincent and Emily Vincent, who were looking to transition from corporate marketing leadership into entrepreneurship by acquiring an established agency with a strong reputation and stable client base. Their backgrounds aligned naturally with the roles Tony and Susan had built. Edwin was well positioned to step into Tony’s strategic and business leadership responsibilities, while Emily’s experience complemented Susan’s client-facing and operational role. Rather than starting an agency from scratch, Edwin and Emily saw the acquisition as a chance to build on an existing platform with a strong culture and loyal client base.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
The acquisition gave Edwin and Emily a turnkey leadership transition, stepping into roles that mirrored their existing marketing expertise rather than requiring them to learn the business from the ground up. For The frank Agency’s employees and clients, the handoff preserved the culture, delivery model, and long-standing relationships that Tony and Susan spent decades building, while positioning the agency for continued growth in healthcare and dental as well as expansion into secondary verticals.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided Tony through a founder-first process centered on finding successors who could preserve everything he and Susan had built. By identifying buyers whose skill sets mapped directly onto the agency’s existing leadership structure, Merge helped create a seamless transition for the team and clients alike, allowing Tony to step back and Susan to retire with confidence that The frank Agency was in capable hands.
Roketto
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Roketto for growth.
Founded in 2009, Roketto is a British Columbia-based SEO and website design agency specializing in growth marketing for B2B SaaS and technology companies across North America. Built around a content-first SEO philosophy, Roketto developed a reputation for helping ambitious brands compete with much larger industry players through strategic search optimization, conversion-focused web design, and data-driven digital advertising. Over time, the agency became known for its proprietary methodology, a scalable SEO-driven content strategy designed to improve organic visibility, lead generation, and long-term digital growth for SaaS-focused organizations
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Content Marketing, Marketing & Advertising, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Performance Marketing, SaaS & MarTech, SEO, Under $10M
- 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 Roketto?
Roketto operates as a specialized digital growth agency focused on SEO-driven content strategy, digital advertising, and conversion-optimized website design for SaaS and technology companies. The agency combines long-form content creation, technical SEO, paid media management, and website development into integrated growth strategies designed to increase traffic, strengthen domain authority, and drive customer acquisition. As a certified Google Ads & Analytics Partner and HubSpot Certified Partner, Roketto built a strong reputation for blending creative execution with measurable performance marketing results
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After more than a decade of building Roketto into a respected SaaS-focused marketing agency, the co-founders began exploring a strategic partnership that could support the agency’s next phase of growth. While the business maintained strong client retention, recurring revenue, and a positive reputation in the market, the founders were seeking a partner capable of overseeing day-to-day operations, accelerating growth initiatives, and continuing the company’s commitment to quality and client success.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
For Roketto, the ideal buyer needed to understand SEO, content marketing, and the rapidly evolving needs of SaaS and technology brands. Preserving the agency’s collaborative culture, strategic methodology, and client relationships was essential. The right acquisition partner would value Roketto’s strong inbound reputation, remote-first operational model, and specialized SEO expertise while bringing additional operational resources and growth infrastructure to scale the agency further.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Roketto for Acquisition
To prepare Roketto for market, Merge positioned the agency as a highly specialized SaaS-focused SEO and digital growth platform with strong recurring revenue and a differentiated market position. Particular emphasis was placed on the agency’s diversified client base, proven SEO frameworks, and fully remote operational structure. Roketto’s reputation within the SaaS ecosystem, paired with its SEO methodology and strong retention metrics, made the business especially attractive to strategic buyers seeking specialized digital marketing expertise.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Roketto for Acquisition
Merge marketed Roketto as a differentiated SEO and content marketing agency with deep expertise serving SaaS and technology clients. Buyers were particularly drawn to the agency’s long-term retainer relationships, certified partnerships with Google and HubSpot, and proven ability to generate measurable organic growth for clients. Roketto’s combination of SEO strategy, web development, and digital advertising capabilities positioned the agency as a strong acquisition opportunity for firms looking to expand their presence in performance-driven SaaS marketing.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
Roketto was acquired by KNB Communications, a strategic communications and marketing firm focused on supporting innovative companies across healthcare, biotech, and technology sectors. The acquisition strengthened KNB Communications’ digital marketing, SEO, and inbound growth capabilities while expanding its ability to deliver integrated marketing solutions to clients operating in highly competitive industries. By combining KNB Communications’ strategic communications expertise with Roketto’s SEO-driven growth methodologies and digital execution capabilities, the combined organization created a stronger platform positioned to support clients across the full marketing funnel.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, Roketto gained access to expanded strategic resources, broader client opportunities, and additional operational support to continue scaling its SEO and digital growth services. The partnership enhanced the combined organization’s ability to provide integrated content marketing, SEO, digital advertising, and website development services to a wider range of clients. Clients benefit from expanded capabilities and deeper strategic expertise, while the team gains access to additional growth opportunities within a larger marketing platform.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided Roketto through a founder-focused acquisition process centered on strategic alignment, continuity, and long-term growth. Through thoughtful positioning, targeted buyer outreach, and hands-on transaction support, Merge helped connect Roketto with KNB Communications, a strategic partner aligned with the agency’s vision for future expansion and operational excellence. The result is a stronger digital growth platform built to help innovative brands scale through SEO, content marketing, and performance-driven digital strategies.
51Blocks
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires 51Blocks for growth.
Founded in 2009, 51Blocks is a Colorado-based white-label digital marketing platform serving agencies and resellers across the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Originally launched as an SEO-focused agency, 51Blocks evolved into a highly systemized fulfillment engine built to help marketing agencies scale without adding internal overhead. Over time, the company expanded its offerings into PPC, websites, hosting, social media, and AI-driven search optimization services, establishing itself as a trusted behind-the-scenes partner for hundreds of reseller agencies. Through its productized service model, client-facing white-label support, and scalable global delivery infrastructure, 51Blocks became known for helping agencies “just sell” while 51Blocks handled fulfillment, reporting, and operational execution.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category AI & Automation, Marketing & Advertising, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Performance Marketing, SaaS & MarTech, SEO, Under $10M, Web Design & Development
- 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 51Blocks?
51Blocks operates as a white-label fulfillment platform designed specifically for marketing agencies and resellers. The company provides SEO, GEO/AEO, PPC management, websites, hosting, social media, and client success support under the reseller’s brand. Unlike traditional white-label providers, 51Blocks includes client-facing communication and fulfillment support directly within its offering, allowing agencies to deliver fully branded services without building internal teams. The company’s highly standardized scopes, transparent pricing, mature SOPs, and scalable delivery model created a streamlined platform capable of serving hundreds of agency partners simultaneously.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After building 51Blocks into a recognized leader in white-label digital marketing fulfillment, the founder began exploring opportunities to transition the business into its next phase of growth. Over the years, the agency had matured operationally, with a strong leadership structure, scalable systems, and minimal owner involvement in day-to-day operations. The objective was not simply to exit, but to find a strategic partner capable of accelerating growth, expanding market reach, and further capitalizing on emerging opportunities in AI-driven search and reseller enablement.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
For 51Blocks, the ideal buyer needed to understand the dynamics of white-label fulfillment, reseller partnerships, and scalable recurring revenue models. Maintaining the agency’s reputation for consistency, transparency, and operational excellence was critical. The right partner would value the company’s productized approach, global fulfillment infrastructure, and highly embedded reseller relationships while bringing additional strategic resources to scale outbound growth, AI-driven offerings, and international expansion opportunities.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing 51Blocks for Acquisition
To prepare 51Blocks for market, Merge positioned the business as a highly systemized, recurring revenue white-label platform with strong profitability and operational maturity. The company stood out for its productized subscriptions, scalable contractor infrastructure, low owner dependence, and deeply embedded reseller relationships. Particular emphasis was placed on the agency’s client-facing white-label support model, sub-1% QA error rate, AI-enabled delivery systems, and emerging GEO/AEO product offerings designed to address the future of AI-driven search.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of 51Blocks for Acquisition
Merge marketed 51Blocks as a rare opportunity to acquire a scalable fulfillment platform serving hundreds of agency partners through highly recurring revenue streams. Buyers were drawn to the company’s turnkey operating structure, long-standing reseller relationships, and ability to deliver SEO, PPC, websites, hosting, and AI-driven search services under agency brands at scale. The agency’s strong retention metrics, recurring revenue model, and proven reseller systems positioned 51Blocks as a differentiated player in the rapidly growing white-label marketing ecosystem
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
51Blocks was acquired by Ajile Media Group, a strategic marketing platform focused on scaling digital marketing infrastructure and fulfillment capabilities. The acquisition strengthened the buyer’s ability to support agency partners through scalable white-label execution, highly systemized operations, and AI-driven search offerings. By combining Ajile Media Group’s growth strategy with 51Blocks’ mature reseller platform and delivery systems, the combined organization created a stronger foundation for long-term expansion across the agency services ecosystem.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, 51Blocks gained additional strategic support and operational resources to continue scaling its reseller platform and AI-driven service offerings. The partnership strengthened the company’s ability to expand outbound growth initiatives, accelerate GEO/AEO adoption, and deepen relationships with agency partners worldwide. Clients and resellers benefit from expanded capabilities, improved scalability, and continued investment in systems, fulfillment quality, and emerging search technologies.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided 51Blocks through a founder-first acquisition process centered on operational continuity, strategic alignment, and long-term scalability. Through targeted buyer outreach, thoughtful positioning, and hands-on transaction support, Merge helped connect 51Blocks with Ajile Media Group a strategic partner aligned with the company’s vision for future growth. The result is a stronger white-label marketing platform built to support agencies and resellers navigating the evolving digital marketing and AI-driven search landscape.
Crawford Group
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Crawford Group for growth.
Founded in 2000, Crawford Group is a California-based enterprise marketing and managed services agency specializing in embedded marketing, event, creative, and operational teams for large enterprise organizations. Over the past two decades, the agency built deep-rooted partnerships with global brands including Adobe, Cisco, AWS, Bloomberg, and Boomi, becoming known for its flexible delivery model, strategic marketing expertise, and ability to integrate seamlessly inside client organizations. Through its embedded team structure and outcome-driven approach, Crawford Group established itself as a trusted long-term partner for Fortune 500 companies navigating increasingly complex marketing and event execution needs.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Business Consulting, Female Founded, Marketing & Advertising, Over $10M, Performance Marketing, Professional Services
- Buyer Type Holding Company
- Deal Size $10M-$25M
- Services Valuation & Market Positioning, Buyer Targeting & Outreach, Offer & Negotiation Support, Due Diligence Management, Closing & Transition Support
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
Who Is Crawford Group?
Crawford Group operates as an enterprise marketing partner focused on embedded managed services, strategic consulting, and high-level marketing execution. The agency provides embedded teams, individual talent placements, and project-based program management across marketing, creative, martech, events, and customer experience functions. Unlike traditional staffing firms, Crawford Group positions itself as a strategic delivery partner, providing highly specialized talent and managed teams that operate directly within client organizations. Its operational model combines flexibility, scalability, and subject matter expertise, allowing enterprise clients to rapidly scale marketing initiatives while maintaining continuity and quality.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After building Crawford Group over more than two decades, founder Judy Crawford began exploring opportunities to position the agency for its next phase of growth. While the business remained highly profitable and deeply entrenched with enterprise clients, the goal was to find a strategic partner that could further scale the platform, support continued expansion, and provide long-term opportunities for both the team and clients. The decision was centered around continuity, growth, and ensuring the agency’s strong reputation and culture would continue to thrive within a larger organization.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
For Crawford Group, the ideal acquirer needed to understand enterprise marketing complexity, embedded service delivery, and the importance of long-standing client relationships. Preserving the agency’s strategic approach, delivery standards, and flexible managed services model was essential. The right partner would value Crawford Group’s reputation, operational maturity, and deep enterprise relationships while bringing additional infrastructure, growth resources, and scalability to support the next chapter of expansion
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Crawford Group for Acquisition
To prepare Crawford Group for market, Merge positioned the agency as a highly differentiated enterprise marketing platform with exceptionally strong client retention and recurring revenue visibility. The business stood out for its embedded team structure, long-term Fortune 500 relationships, and diversified service offerings spanning marketing, creative, martech, and event management. Crawford Group’s scalable staffing infrastructure, mature operational systems, and highly recurring engagement model made it especially attractive to buyers seeking predictable enterprise revenue and long-term client partnerships.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Crawford Group for Acquisition
Merge marketed Crawford Group as a rare opportunity to acquire a deeply embedded enterprise marketing partner with decades-long client relationships and a highly scalable managed services model. Buyers were particularly drawn to the agency’s strong positioning within large enterprise organizations, its outcome-driven delivery approach, and its ability to provide flexible embedded teams across multiple marketing disciplines. Crawford Group’s long-standing relationships with globally recognized brands such as Adobe, AWS, Cisco, and Bloomberg reinforced its credibility and market leadership within the enterprise services landscape.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
Crawford Group was acquired by 24 Seven, a leading talent and workforce solutions firm specializing in creative, marketing, digital, and technology staffing. The acquisition strategically expanded 24 Seven’s enterprise marketing and managed services capabilities while strengthening its ability to support large-scale embedded team engagements for global clients. By combining Crawford Group’s embedded delivery expertise and enterprise client relationships with 24 Seven’s national talent infrastructure and workforce solutions platform, the combined organization created a stronger, more scalable offering for enterprise marketing organizations.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, Crawford Group gained access to expanded operational resources, broader talent networks, and additional infrastructure to support future growth. The partnership enhanced the combined organization’s ability to deliver embedded marketing solutions, strategic consulting, and enterprise workforce management at scale. Clients benefit from expanded capabilities and deeper support resources, while employees gain increased opportunities for professional growth within a larger platform organization.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided Crawford Group through a strategic, founder-focused acquisition process centered on long-term alignment, operational continuity, and future growth. Through targeted buyer outreach, thoughtful positioning, and hands-on transaction support, Merge helped Crawford Group find the right strategic home with 24 Seven, a partner well-positioned to support the agency’s next chapter. The result is a strengthened enterprise marketing platform built to serve some of the world’s most sophisticated organizations with scalable, embedded marketing solutions.
Symmetri Marketing
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Symmetri Marketing for growth.
Founded in 2003, Symmetri Marketing is a B2B brand strategy and digital marketing agency serving complex industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and higher education. Known for blending creative, content, and technology to help technical organizations tell clearer brand stories, Symmetri built long-standing client relationships and a reputation as a strategic partner rather than a traditional vendor. After more than two decades of growth, the founders partnered with Yes&, a fully integrated creative agency, to scale Symmetri’s platform, expand creative capabilities, and unlock new growth opportunities for the team.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Under $10M, Web Design & Development, Professional Services, PR & Communications, Performance Marketing, Marketing & Advertising, Data & Analytics, Content Marketing, Branding & Creative, Creative Content Development, Digital Product & Web Development
- 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 Symmetri Marketing?
Symmetri operates as a full-service B2B marketing partner, delivering brand strategy, content development, digital marketing, and web technology solutions for organizations with complex products and long sales cycles. With a remote-first operating model and a collaborative team structure, the agency supports clients across healthcare, manufacturing, and higher education by translating technical offerings into compelling brand narratives that drive engagement, demand, and long-term growth.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
Having built Symmetri over two decades, the founders began exploring a new chapter for the business that would provide greater growth opportunities and access to capital while preserving the agency’s culture and team. One founder was preparing for retirement, while the other sought to take some chips off the table and continue growing Symmetri’s creative capabilities within a larger platform.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
For Symmetri’s leadership, the right partner needed to respect the agency’s B2B focus, creative culture, and collaborative operating model while bringing additional scale, systems, and resources. It was essential that the team have room to grow, expand capabilities, and take on larger, more complex work without losing the values and relationships that defined Symmetri’s success.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Symmetri Marketing for Acquisition
Merge positioned Symmetri around its deep B2B specialization, long-standing client relationships, and integrated service offering across branding, content, and technology. The agency was presented as a resilient platform with strong industry positioning, experienced leadership, and the ability to operate independently, making it an attractive growth opportunity for a strategic acquirer.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Symmetri Marketing for Acquisition
Symmetri was marketed as a high-quality B2B agency with proven processes, creative excellence, and a reputation for solving complex marketing challenges. Buyers were drawn to the agency’s industry expertise, scalable delivery model, and ability to embed deeply within client organizations as a strategic partner.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
Symmetri was acquired by Yes&, a fully integrated creative agency actively growing through acquisition and seeking to expand its B2B capabilities. Yes& recognized Symmetri as a strong cultural and strategic fit, gaining a team with proven processes and creative depth while Symmetri gained access to capital, infrastructure, and a larger platform for growth
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, Symmetri’s team gained new opportunities to expand services, collaborate across a larger creative network, and take on more complex B2B work. Yes& strengthened its B2B offering while Symmetri gained the scale and support needed to accelerate growth and enhance its creative impact.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided Symmetri through a founder-first acquisition process focused on cultural alignment, long-term growth, and team continuity. Through strategic positioning, targeted outreach, and hands-on transaction support, Merge helped place Symmetri with a partner that supports its next chapter of growth with Yes&.
Coastal Collective
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Coastal Collective for growth.
Founded in 2018, Coastal Collective Marketing is a California-based social media agency serving SMB brands and marketing agencies across the United States. Built around a community-led, social-first model, the agency established itself as a trusted partner for brands seeking authentic storytelling, audience engagement, and measurable growth across digital platforms. Under founder Brooke Apffel’s leadership, Coastal Collective scaled rapidly to over $1.1M in revenue with 99% of clients on recurring retainers, positioning the business as a modern, high-retention agency with strong brand equity and long-term growth potential.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category PR & Communications, Performance Marketing, Marketing & Advertising, Content Marketing, Under $10M, Female Founded, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Creative Content Development, Social Media
- 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 Coastal Collective?
Coastal Collective operates as a full-service social media marketing partner, supporting clients through social strategy, content development, community management, paid media, and email marketing, while also offering education through online courses and masterclasses designed to help individuals and agencies build scalable social programs. The agency delivers platform-specific strategies across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and LinkedIn, blending creative execution with data-driven insights, and operates with a fully remote team of eight full-time employees, allowing for a lean, scalable structure that maintains quality and consistency across all client engagements.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After seven years of growth and hundreds of clients served, founder Brooke began considering the long-term future of the business and recognized the opportunity to partner with an organization that could help scale Coastal Collective’s community-led, social-first model without compromising its culture, leadership, or creative integrity, seeking infrastructure, technology, and strategic depth to support the next phase of growth while ensuring continuity for her team and clients.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
For Brooke, the right partner needed to value human connection, creativity, and social intelligence as core to modern brand building, while respecting Coastal Collective’s identity, leadership, and team culture, and bringing operational scale, systems, and resources that would allow the agency to expand its capabilities and impact without losing what made it successful.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Coastal Collective for Acquisition
To prepare the agency for market, Merge highlighted Coastal Collective’s highly recurring revenue base, consistent historical growth, organic inbound engine, and strong client retention, positioning the business as a scalable, social-first platform with predictable cash flow and clear opportunities to expand paid advertising, email marketing, and education offerings.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Coastal Collective for Acquisition
Merge marketed Coastal Collective as a differentiated social media agency with deep expertise in content, community, and storytelling, attracting buyers drawn to its inbound-led growth, strong social presence, and proven ability to drive measurable engagement and retention, while the agency’s diversified revenue streams and modern operating model signaled meaningful long-term value.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
Coastal Collective was acquired by Stellar Agency, a digital-first platform that views social, community, and storytelling as essential to the future of brand building, recognizing Coastal Collective’s human-first approach as a natural extension of its broader digital, web, and technology services and an opportunity to embed social intelligence across its organization.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, Coastal Collective retained its leadership, brand, and creative direction while gaining access to enhanced infrastructure, systems, and strategic support, while Stellar benefited from a social-first engine embedded at the leadership level, allowing both organizations to grow together through a complementary partnership rather than a consolidation
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided Coastal Collective through a founder-first acquisition process focused on alignment, continuity, and long-term opportunity, using thoughtful positioning, targeted buyer outreach, and hands-on transaction support to place the agency with a partner that honors its legacy and supports its next chapter of growth with Stellar Agency.
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 Professional Services, Social Media, Performance Marketing, Media & Content Production, Marketing & Advertising, Content Marketing, Branding & Creative, Under $10M, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Creative Content Development
- 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.
Ideometry
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Ideometry for growth.
Founded in 2014, Ideometry is a full-service growth marketing agency focused on B2B SaaS and robotics companies. Over the past decade, the agency built a strong reputation for helping technically complex businesses scale through strategic planning, lead generation, branding, and web execution. Ideometry worked with a mix of venture-backed startups and publicly traded companies, establishing a clear niche at the intersection of SaaS and robotics.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Content Marketing, Branding & Creative, Under $10M, Account Based Marketing, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Creative Content Development, Digital Product & Web Development, Data & Analytics, Web Design & Development, SaaS & MarTech, Performance Marketing, Marketing & Advertising, Market Research
- 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 Ideometry?
Ideometry operates as a remote-first agency with a highly collaborative team model. The agency is known for embedding directly into client organizations and taking ownership of the full marketing ecosystem. From audits and strategy to execution across lead generation, design, automation, and analytics, Ideometry functions as an extension of its clients’ teams. Long-standing client relationships and a strong base of recurring revenue positioned the agency as a trusted growth partner in competitive, technical markets.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After more than ten years of building Ideometry, the founders reached a point where they felt proud of what they had created but began to experience slower growth. Rather than continuing independently, they decided to explore joining a larger organization that could provide additional support, infrastructure, and new opportunities to scale. Their priority was ensuring the business could continue to grow while giving the team access to broader resources.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The founders were intentional about finding a buyer aligned with Ideometry’s B2B SaaS focus and collaborative culture. Flexibility was an important factor. One founder, Josh, wanted to remain involved and continue leading the team, while his partner, Charles, was ready to exit. The right partner needed to support leadership continuity, team integration, and future growth.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Ideometry for Acquisition
To prepare Ideometry for acquisition, Merge focused on highlighting the agency’s strong recurring revenue model, long client retention, and specialized expertise in B2B SaaS and robotics. Ideometry’s integrated delivery approach and proven results across complex industries positioned the agency as a strategic platform for growth rather than a traditional agency exit.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Ideometry for Acquisition
Merge marketed Ideometry as a growth-focused agency with deep technical expertise and strong relationships within the SaaS ecosystem. Its ability to integrate seamlessly with client teams and deliver consistent, measurable results made it an attractive opportunity for buyers pursuing expansion within B2B SaaS.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
Ideometry was acquired by Marketers in Demand, a B2B SaaS marketing group executing a broader roll-up strategy. Having already completed several acquisitions, Marketers in Demand saw Ideometry’s robotics and SaaS expertise as a natural addition to its platform. The structure of the deal allowed Josh to stay on and continue leading the Ideometry team, while Charles successfully exited, creating alignment on both sides.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, Ideometry and Marketers in Demand began integrating teams and expanding cross-selling opportunities across their shared client base. The combined organization increased depth across strategy and execution, unlocked new growth opportunities, and strengthened its ability to serve SaaS clients, all while maintaining continuity for clients and employees.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a key role in aligning Ideometry with Marketers in Demand by balancing strategic fit with founder goals. Through thoughtful positioning, targeted outreach, and hands-on deal execution, Merge helped structure a transaction that supported leadership continuity, team stability, and long-term growth. The result is a partnership that positions Ideometry for its next phase of growth within a larger B2B SaaS-focused ecosystem.
Social Growth Labs
(01)Engagement
Overview
Entrepreneurial buyer acquires Social Growth Labs for growth.
Founded in 2019, Social Growth Labs is a marketing and growth agency built around one mission: helping startups go to market with impact. The agency carved out a niche as the go-to expert for Product Hunt launches, supporting VC-backed SaaS startups through pre-launch activation, launch-day promotion, and post-launch growth.
Working with founders from pre-seed to Series A, Social Growth Labs blends go-to-market strategy, user research, and performance marketing to help clients secure top rankings, gain traction, and drive measurable user acquisition. With a performance-based pricing model that rewards launch success, the agency built trust through results, powering more than 120 launches with a lean global team and strong margins.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Performance Marketing, SaaS & MarTech, Marketing & Advertising, Market Research, Data & Analytics, Content Marketing, Under $10M, Account Based Marketing, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Creative Content Development
- Buyer Type Entrepreneurial Buyer
- 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 Social Growth Labs?
Founder Leo Bosuener started Social Growth Labs as a remote-first agency designed for autonomy and flexibility. After five years of building a self-sustaining business with minimal founder oversight, Leo was ready to step back to focus on his family and spend more time with his two young daughters. He wanted to ensure the agency would continue growing under a buyer who shared his appreciation for efficiency, innovation, and scalable marketing systems.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
Leo sought a buyer who could expand Social Growth Labs’ model beyond one-time campaigns into recurring GTM retainers, SaaS partnerships, and post-launch growth programs. The ideal acquirer would understand early-stage startups, value the Product Hunt niche, and bring the resources to scale inbound demand while maintaining the agency’s high-performance standards
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
With a streamlined structure, proven outbound engine, and global team that required just a few hours of founder time per week, Merge positioned Social Growth Labs as a turnkey acquisition for buyers seeking a high-margin, low-touch growth platform with built-in credibility.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Social Growth Labs for Acquisition
With a streamlined structure, proven outbound engine, and global team that required just a few hours of founder time per week, Merge positioned Social Growth Labs as a turnkey acquisition for buyers seeking a high-margin, low-touch growth platform with built-in credibility.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Social Growth Labs for Acquisition
Merge marketed Social Growth Labs as a rare opportunity to acquire a performance-based SaaS growth agency with an established niche and proven success formula. By emphasizing its systemized process, lean team, and repeatable outcomes, the agency attracted buyers looking for operational simplicity with strong ROI potential.
Target outreach focused on marketing groups, digital holding companies, and entrepreneurs in the SaaS ecosystem who were seeking to expand into go-to-market services for startups.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
Social Growth Labs was acquired by Thomas Liu, a Columbia MBA and finance professional with experience in M&A, valuations, and transaction advisory at Gerald Edelman in London. Liu’s background in financial strategy and scaling businesses made him the perfect buyer to expand the agency’s model and integrate it into a broader digital portfolio.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Under new ownership, Social Growth Labs is exploring new growth opportunities including recurring GTM services, venture partnerships, and community-driven marketing programs. The acquisition has enabled the agency to enhance its service mix while preserving its core strength of helping founders successfully launch and scale on Product Hunt and beyond.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge’s positioning and hands-on marketing approach showcased Social Growth Labs as more than a niche agency. It was a proven growth engine with expansion potential. By highlighting its profitability, operational efficiency, and founder story, Merge attracted a values-aligned buyer and facilitated a smooth transition that allows Leo to step back while ensuring the agency continues to thrive.
SpiderBoost
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires SpiderBoost for growth.
Founded in 2010 in Miami, SpiderBoost is a full-service performance marketing agency specializing in SEO, paid media, and web development. The agency has earned recognition as an Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Company and built a reputation for driving measurable results across competitive digital landscapes. Its client roster includes leading organizations such as Jackson Health System, the University of Miami, and United Way.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Digital Product & Web Development, SEO, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Under $10M, AI & Automation, Data & Analytics, Marketing & Advertising, Performance Marketing, Web Design & 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 SpiderBoost ?
SpiderBoost’s bilingual team operates across the U.S. and Colombia, combining technical depth with cultural fluency to deliver scalable marketing solutions. Known for its 100% inbound client acquisition model and nearly 30-month average client retention, the agency is a trusted partner for enterprise brands seeking data-backed growth and high-performing campaigns.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After more than a decade of growth, SpiderBoost’s founders were seeking a partner to help scale the agency in the evolving AI-first marketing landscape. Having previously sold and reacquired the business, they wanted to find a buyer who shared their data-driven mindset and could provide the resources, structure, and operational support needed to reach new levels of scale—while preserving the culture and client trust they had built.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The founders aimed to find a partner with complementary expertise in performance marketing and a shared passion for measurable results. Cultural alignment was essential—they wanted a buyer who valued collaboration, innovation, and people. The ideal fit would offer expanded infrastructure, new growth opportunities, and long-term stability for both the team and clients.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing SpiderBoost for Acquisition
To prepare SpiderBoost for market, Merge emphasized the agency’s strong financial profile, long-term client retention, and inbound-driven revenue model. With a reputation for technical excellence in SEO and paid media, SpiderBoost was positioned as a rare opportunity to acquire a performance-focused agency with recurring revenue, an enterprise client base, and proven scalability across the Americas.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of SpiderBoost for Acquisition
Merge marketed SpiderBoost as a data-driven agency with strong retention, bilingual operations, and a technical foundation built for expansion. Its consistent profitability and deep integration with enterprise clients attracted multiple interested buyers. SpiderBoost stood out as a top acquisition target for groups seeking a growth-ready performance marketing engine.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
SpiderBoost was acquired by Moving Traffic Media, a performance marketing group with complementary expertise in paid media, SEO, and web development. The transaction represented a natural alignment between Moving Traffic Media’s performance-driven approach and SpiderBoost’s technical capabilities and enterprise relationships.
The founders retained active roles post-transaction to ensure a seamless integration and lead continued growth, creating a strong foundation for long-term success under the Moving Traffic Media umbrella.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, Moving Traffic Media and SpiderBoost combined their strengths to form a full-stack performance engine designed for the AI-first marketing era. Together, they have expanded cross-channel capabilities, increased experimentation speed, and enhanced data-driven measurement for clients. The integration resulted in zero client disruption and immediate operational synergies, strengthening both agencies’ competitive edge.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a key role in aligning SpiderBoost with Moving Traffic Media, a buyer that shared its vision for measurable marketing, technical innovation, and team-driven success. Through expert positioning, targeted outreach, and hands-on deal execution, Merge delivered a seamless transaction that achieved the founders’ goals for growth, culture, and long-term opportunity. The result is a strategic partnership that positions SpiderBoost for its strongest chapter yet.
Lamplight Digital
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires Lamplight Digital for growth.
Founded in 2018, Lamplight Digital Media is a specialized marketing agency serving residential water treatment companies across North America. With 90% retainer-based revenue, proprietary tools, and a 100% outperformance rate for websites, Lamplight has become the dominant player in its niche. Built on industry knowledge, transparent service, and data-backed results, Lamplight empowers local businesses to generate a steady flow of profitable leads.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Conversion Rate Optimization, SEO, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Content Marketing, Data & Analytics, Performance Marketing, Web Design & 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 Lamplight Digital?
Lamplight Digital Media is a full-service digital marketing agency exclusively serving the water treatment industry. The agency acts as the entire marketing department for clients, offering services like website development, local SEO, paid media, conversion rate optimization, and offline marketing. With over 3,000 A/B tests completed and a proprietary click identifier tool, Lamplight has achieved a 100% outperformance rate for customers who switch to a Lamplight-operated website. The team has over 15 years of experience in the space and is known for delivering measurable results, full-funnel tracking, and consistent lead generation.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
The founders saw a strategic opportunity to sell Lamplight and unlock the next phase of growth. With a strong team, proven systems, and expansion opportunities in commercial water treatment and adjacent verticals like well drilling, the agency was ready for a partner who could help scale operations and support clients more broadly.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The ideal buyer would share Lamplight’s values around transparency, service, and data-backed strategy. The founders looked for someone who could maintain the agency’s culture and client-first mindset while expanding its capabilities and reach. Industry understanding, team support, and a commitment to growth were essential.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing Lamplight Digital for Acquisition
Lamplight had a 3.4x valuation multiple. The agency’s revenue was 90% retainer-based, with standardized 12-month packages and high client retention. A hybrid team of U.S.-based employees and international contractors supported operations, and proprietary tools and processes were in place to deliver consistent results.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of Lamplight Digital for Acquisition
Merge crafted marketing materials that highlighted Lamplight’s niche dominance, strong financials, and proprietary performance tools. The listing emphasized the agency’s high-margin model, long-term client relationships, and growth opportunities through upsells, template upgrades, and market expansion. Buyer outreach focused on those interested in recurring revenue and vertical specialization.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
Lamplight was acquired by a buyer with performance marketing experience. One founder remained actively involved post-transaction to lead operations and continue growing the business. The agency’s team structure, service offerings, and industry relationships remained intact to support long-term success.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Post-transaction, Lamplight began rolling out upgraded website templates and continued expanding into tangential sectors including commercial and industrial water treatment, as well as well drilling and pump repair. With 40% of the client base already active in these areas, the agency had a clear path for cross-sells and upsells. Internal systems and onboarding processes were also refined to support growth.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge provided full support throughout the transaction process, from positioning and buyer outreach to diligence and deal structuring. Their experience in the marketing agency space helped ensure a smooth transition, a strong buyer fit, and a future-focused outcome that respected Lamplight’s culture, team, and track record.
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