Public Relations

Leveraging extensive expertise in digital strategy, communications, creative solutions, and both employee and customer experience, Salient Global is committed to uncovering insights that reveal the greatest opportunities for success. This commitment is why their clients trust them to guide strategic initiatives and unlock their full potential.

Salient Global’s innovative approach combines top-tier talent with data-driven solutions. Supported by a network of Salient-powered agencies—including the creative agency Honeymoon, the experience and innovation firm Timecraft, and the marketing and communications firm Candor—they deliver unparalleled value to their clients.

Salient Global has a growth plan centered on acquiring agencies that fit within their service scope and align with their strategic interests. When Merge first met with Salient Global, they were seeking an impressive PR agency that had the full package: a stellar reputation, strong financials, an incredible team, and outstanding work product. The team was particularly excited to explore opportunities in the Midwest to expand their geographic footprint.

In their search for a strategic partner, Salient Global aimed for an agency that would not only facilitate growth and expansion through acquisition but also bring synergy to their existing operations. They sought a partner who would support these goals and align seamlessly with Salient Global’s long-term vision of becoming a market leader. The ideal candidate would possess a robust portfolio, a strong reputation in the industry, and a proven track record of success. Additionally, Salient Global was looking for a partner who shared their commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainable business practices. This comprehensive approach ensured that the acquisition would enhance their competitive edge and drive continued success in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Having successfully completed prior acquisitions, Salient Global approached their collaboration with Merge with an integrated and meticulous strategy designed to facilitate and execute a successful transaction. They brought to the table valuable experience and insights from previous endeavors, ensuring that every aspect of the process was thoroughly planned and executed. This included extensive due diligence, strategic alignment meetings, and the establishment of clear communication channels to ensure transparency and efficiency. Salient Global also invested in robust training and integration programs to prepare both teams for a seamless transition. Their proactive approach underscored their commitment to achieving not just a successful acquisition, but a partnership that would yield long-term benefits and drive mutual growth.

The strategic marketing of Salient Global highlighted its status as an industry leader in marketing and communications. This reputation, combined with innovative service offerings, attracted attention from multiple prospective sellers, showcasing the agency’s value and potential for growth.

It was crucial for Salient Global to find synergies in their acquisition pursuits, considering both strategic and cultural dimensions. Merge ensured alignment between the buyer and seller, guaranteeing sustainability post-transaction.

After acquiring Candor from Merge, both Candor and Salient have flourished post-acquisition. The integration has gone smoothly, and the companies continue to work in true partnership as they grow and expand in the marketing and communications arena.

The expertise and strategic insight of Merge were instrumental in bringing Candor and Salient Global together. “Candor’s world-class capabilities, unmatched values, and growth mindset made it clear they were the perfect partner to join our Salient network of best-in-class marketing companies,” said Bryan Specht, CEO of Salient. “This is an important moment in Salient’s growth journey and for our clients, which Candor will no doubt contribute to with their fresh perspective and forward-thinking capabilities across public relations, production, and public affairs.”

The Millerschin Group is renowned for its deep expertise in the mobility industry, has consistently set the benchmark in delivering impactful marketing and public relations services, solidifying its position as a trusted advisor and strategic communicator in the automotive and mobility sectors.

After two decades of leading The Millerschin Group to success, Erin Millerschin was ready to embark on a well-deserved retirement, seeking a partner who would continue the agency’s legacy of innovation and excellence. Her priority was to ensure that the agency’s culture and values were preserved while providing growth opportunities for her dedicated team.

Erin envisioned a buyer who would not only respect the agency’s established reputation but also expand its service offerings and clientele. Her ideal partner was a larger agency that could scale The Millerschin Group’s services, enhance the team’s capabilities, and maintain the agency’s core principles.

The Millerschin Group approached Merge to facilitate the sale, leveraging their expertise in the industry to highlight TMG’s strengths, long-term client relationships, and its award-winning team’s potential for expansion.

Merge undertook a thorough analysis of The Millerschin Group’s market position, financials, and operations, developing comprehensive marketing materials to attract prospective buyers who aligned with The Millerschin Group’s vision and values.

French | West | Vaughan (FWV), a pioneering influence in integrated marketing based in North Carolina, emerged as the perfect match for The Millerschin Group. FWV’s commitment to innovative marketing strategies and client success aligned seamlessly with The Millerschin Group’s ethos and goals.

The acquisition allowed The Millerschin Group to offer more services and expand into various industries, benefiting from FWV’s resources and broader market reach. Conversely, FWV was able to strengthen its presence in the Detroit market and diversify its client portfolio.

Merge played a pivotal role in this acquisition, expertly aligning The Millerschin Group with a buyer that not only met its strategic and cultural objectives but also ensured the continuation of its legacy and the fulfillment of Erin Millerschin’s goals for the agency’s future.