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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.
PromoShak
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires PromoShak for growth.
Founded in 2018, PromoShak is a promotional products agency based in Austin, Texas, operating with a fully remote team. The agency helps property management firms, gaming companies, and corporate teams bring their brands to life through custom promotional products, including apparel, drinkware, tech accessories, and branded merchandise. Built as an independent unit of Threshold Agency, PromoShak grew into a profitable, streamlined business with consistent execution and strong client relationships.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Creative Content Development, Under $10M, Branding & Creative, Marketing & Advertising, Professional Services, SaaS & MarTech
- 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 PromoShak?
PromoShak operates with a simple, request-driven model supported by clearly documented workflows. From product sourcing and artwork proofs to production oversight and shipping, the agency manages the entire process through a trusted distributor network. This structure allows the business to run efficiently with minimal oversight while consistently delivering on time and on budget. Clients value the one-stop convenience and dedicated point of contact, which has led to repeat work and long-term relationships across multiple industries.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
PromoShak was built to operate independently from Threshold Agency with limited founder involvement. Over time, the business reached a point where it could continue running smoothly without hands-on oversight. The owner chose to explore a sale to allow a new operator or strategic buyer to take over a stable, profitable business while ensuring continuity for clients and vendors. The founder remained available post-transaction to support a smooth transition.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The ideal buyer for PromoShak was one that valued operational efficiency, strong vendor relationships, and consistent client service. The founder sought a partner that could preserve PromoShak’s service model while offering the scale, infrastructure, and support to expand its reach. Ensuring a seamless experience for clients and maintaining quality standards were key priorities.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing PromoShak for Acquisition
To prepare PromoShak for market, Merge focused on highlighting the agency’s lean cost structure, documented workflows, and consistent financial performance. With a fully remote model, low overhead, and a clear pricing structure, PromoShak was positioned as a plug-and-play acquisition with predictable revenue and strong margins supported by a diversified base of repeat clients.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of PromoShak for Acquisition
Merge marketed PromoShak as a dependable, asset-light promotional products agency with national reach and clear growth opportunities. While the business relied primarily on referrals and inbound inquiries, buyers recognized opportunities to expand outbound sales efforts, formalize referral programs, and introduce streamlined reordering capabilities.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
PromoShak was acquired by Fully Promoted, a national promotional products and marketing services franchise. The acquisition allowed Fully Promoted to expand its capabilities with a proven, efficient operation while providing PromoShak with access to a larger platform, broader resources, and additional growth opportunities. The transition was structured to ensure continuity for clients, vendors, and internal processes.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, PromoShak was well-positioned to grow within the Fully Promoted ecosystem. The combination created opportunities to expand service offerings, reach new geographic markets, and increase repeat business through Fully Promoted’s established network. At the same time, PromoShak’s streamlined workflows and vendor relationships strengthened operational efficiency across the broader organization.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a key role in positioning PromoShak for a successful acquisition by Fully Promoted. Through thoughtful positioning, targeted buyer outreach, and hands-on deal execution, Merge facilitated a smooth transaction that aligned the seller’s goals with Fully Promoted’s growth strategy. The result is a strong partnership that supports continued expansion while preserving the operational strengths that made PromoShak successful.
NeigerDesign
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires NeigerDesign for growth.
Founded in 1988, NeigerDesign is a Chicago-based brand and strategic marketing agency serving trade associations, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, and B2B companies. With more than three decades of experience, the agency built a strong reputation for combining thoughtful brand research with creative execution across print, digital, and web. Known for its collaborative approach and long-standing client relationships, NeigerDesign consistently delivered measurable results through strategic branding and integrated marketing programs.
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Creative Content Development, Under $10M, Branding & Creative, Content Marketing, Market Research, Marketing & Advertising, Professional Services, 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 NeigerDesign?
NeigerDesign operates as a full-service agency offering brand research and strategy, print and digital design, website development, and digital marketing. The team works closely with executive leadership and boards to guide brand decisions that support long-term growth. With a mix of project-based work and recurring retainer relationships, the agency maintained a stable revenue base and deep client trust across multiple sectors.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
After building NeigerDesign over several decades, the founder reached a point where she was ready to step into a new creative chapter while ensuring the agency’s legacy continued. While the business remained profitable and well-positioned, the founder sought a transition that would provide continuity for clients and employees while allowing her to pursue fine arts and personal interests beyond day-to-day agency leadership.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The ideal buyer needed to value strategic branding, creative rigor, and strong client relationships. Cultural alignment was important, along with the ability to support the team and preserve NeigerDesign’s collaborative, research-driven approach. The founder prioritized a smooth transition that would allow clients to continue receiving the same level of service while opening new opportunities for growth.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing NeigerDesign for Acquisition
To prepare NeigerDesign for market, Merge highlighted the agency’s long operating history, consistent financial performance, and diversified client base. The business was positioned as a well-established marketing agency with in-house web development capabilities and a balanced mix of project and recurring revenue. Its strong brand reputation and experienced team made it an attractive opportunity for buyers seeking stability and expansion.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of NeigerDesign for Acquisition
Merge marketed NeigerDesign as a trusted brand partner with deep expertise in associations, nonprofits, healthcare, and B2B marketing. Buyers were drawn to the agency’s long client tenure, proven processes, and opportunities to expand digital marketing, branding strategy, and web development services.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
NeigerDesign was acquired by Creative Edge, a strategic buyer aligned with the agency’s creative and brand-focused strengths. The transaction allowed NeigerDesign to continue serving its clients with consistency while benefiting from additional operational support and resources. The founder supported the transition to ensure continuity for the team and a seamless handoff of client relationships.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
Following the acquisition, NeigerDesign was well-positioned to expand its digital marketing and web development offerings within the Creative Edge platform while maintaining its core branding expertise. The combination created opportunities to deepen client relationships, pursue new verticals, and scale services without disrupting existing operations or culture.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge guided NeigerDesign through a thoughtful acquisition process that balanced legacy, people, and future opportunity. Through careful positioning, targeted buyer outreach, and hands-on execution, Merge helped facilitate a transaction that met the founder’s goals and positioned NeigerDesign for continued success under Creative Edge.
DECODE
(01)Engagement
Overview
Strategic buyer acquires DECODE for growth.
Founded in 2013, DECODE is a specialized digital marketing agency with a focus on the healthcare and wellness industries. Based in Houston, Texas, DECODE has earned a strong reputation for delivering high-performance marketing solutions for SMBs and middle-market enterprises. The agency is deeply rooted in understanding the consumer wellness journey, which has been key to their ability to create effective marketing campaigns that resonate with the target audience.
DECODE has built long-term relationships with its clients, including a notable partnership with its largest client since its inception. With a strong team of 53 members, DECODE combines its expertise in digital media, strategy, creative, and technology to deliver integrated campaigns that drive measurable results. The agency has grown rapidly and is now seeking a strategic partner to help fuel its national expansion
(Details)
- Engagement Sell-Side Representation
- Type Full Sale
- Category Social Media, Digital Product & Web Development, SEO, Paid Media & Lead Generation, Over $10M, Content Marketing, Marketing & Advertising, Performance Marketing, Professional Services, Technology & IT Services
- Buyer Type Private Equity
- 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 DECODE ?
DECODE operates with a clear focus on the healthcare and wellness industries, offering a range of services from digital media buying to website development, SEO, content creation, and social media strategy. The agency is especially skilled in creating and executing omni-channel marketing campaigns, ensuring that each campaign is integrated across both traditional and digital media. DECODE has a strong in-house development team, which allows them to build customized solutions for clients and marry marketing expertise with technology.
Their deep understanding of the wellness journey, especially within the medical field, allows them to craft advertising programs that guide potential patients from consideration to conversion. The agency is equipped with a full tech stack for paid search, social media, and programmatic media buying, providing clients with greater transparency, flexibility, and cost efficiency.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The Why Behind The Sale
The founder of DECODE is seeking an acquisition partner to accelerate the agency’s growth and transition from a regional agency to a national powerhouse. With the infrastructure already in place for expansion, DECODE’s leadership team is eager to scale, tapping into new markets and clients within the health and wellness space. The founder is committed to staying on board post-acquisition and believes that an infusion of outside capital and expertise will allow DECODE to realize its full potential.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit
The ideal buyer for DECODE is a firm with expertise in scaling agencies and a background in the healthcare and wellness industries. The buyer should have the resources to expand DECODE’s national reach and the capacity to help drive growth in new markets such as plastic surgery, dentistry, vitamins, and insurance. Additionally, the buyer should value DECODE’s strong creative and strategic foundation, and be committed to supporting the agency’s continued success by maintaining the team’s focus on delivering high-quality campaigns.
(05)Setting the Stage
Preparing DECODE for Acquisition
Merge positioned DECODE as a high-growth, high-margin agency with a proven track record in the healthcare and wellness sectors. The agency’s deep industry knowledge, strong client relationships, and ability to scale made it an attractive target for acquisition. With 45% of revenue coming from retainer clients, DECODE offers a stable, recurring revenue stream, which enhances its appeal to potential buyers.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Strategic Marketing of DECODE for Acquisition
Merge marketed DECODE as an agency with a unique expertise in healthcare and wellness marketing, showcasing its success in delivering top-tier campaigns for high-profile clients in the medical and wellness industries. By emphasizing the agency’s digital media expertise, strong leadership team, and proven ability to scale, Merge attracted several interested buyers looking to expand into the healthcare sector.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer
DECODE was successfully acquired by Amulet Capital Partners, a buyer with the experience and resources to help the agency scale its operations nationally. Amulet Capital Partners recognized DECODE’s deep industry expertise and ability to deliver high-quality marketing campaigns in the healthcare and wellness sectors. Post-acquisition, Amulet has begun investing in DECODE’s expansion, positioning the agency for accelerated growth.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Positive Impacts Post-Transaction
After the acquisition, DECODE expanded its service offerings and grew its client base across the U.S. With the support of Amulet Capital Partners, the agency has increased its national footprint and pursued new business opportunities in key wellness markets. The acquisition has created synergies that strengthen DECODE’s position as a premier marketing agency in the healthcare and wellness space.
(09)Finding a New Home
The Merge Difference
Merge played a key role in facilitating the acquisition of DECODE by Amulet Capital Partners, ensuring alignment on growth objectives. Through expert matchmaking and strategic guidance, Merge positioned DECODE for a successful acquisition, enabling the agency to scale quickly and reach its full potential. This acquisition underscores Merge’s expertise in connecting high-potential agencies with the right partners for long-term success.