We partner with buyers who are ready to find acquisition opportunities that align with their strategic objectives.
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Overview
Founded in 2009, Yeoman Technologies is a high-margin Amazon marketing and e-commerce optimization agency that partners with multi-channel consumer brands to grow digital sales across Amazon, Walmart, and DTC platforms. Known for its proprietary reporting tools, tech-enabled services, and focus on integrating paid and organic strategies, Yeoman built long-term relationships with over 50 U.S.-based clients. With 87% of its revenue from recurring contracts and deep experience across 1P and 3P Amazon programs, Yeoman was acquired by Meet the People—a network of forward-thinking agencies seeking to strengthen its e-commerce capabilities while preserving Yeoman’s lean model, trusted client base, and strong leadership.
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
Founded in 2009, Yeoman Technologies is a high-margin Amazon marketing and e-commerce optimization agency that partners with multi-channel consumer brands to grow digital sales across Amazon, Walmart, and DTC platforms. Known for its proprietary reporting tools, tech-enabled services, and focus on integrating paid and organic strategies, Yeoman built long-term relationships with over 50 U.S.-based clients. With 87% of its revenue from recurring contracts and deep experience across 1P and 3P Amazon programs, Yeoman was acquired by Meet the People—a network of forward-thinking agencies seeking to strengthen its e-commerce capabilities while preserving Yeoman’s lean model, trusted client base, and strong leadership.
(03)Founder's
Motive
Michael Healey was looking for a strategic partner to help scale Yeoman’s technology, expand marketplace services, and invest in future growth opportunities like their internal analytics platform. With a lean team and high-margin model, Michael saw an opportunity to maximize Yeoman’s value while ensuring long-term success through the right partnership. He remained committed to staying on for up to three years to support a smooth transition.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Michael was seeking a buyer that valued operational efficiency, marketplace expertise, and tech-enabled services. The right partner would understand Amazon’s unique landscape and share Yeoman’s vision for integrating paid and organic strategies. Michael prioritized a buyer that could help scale Yeoman’s systems without disrupting the agency’s strong client relationships or lean team structure.
(05)Setting the Stage
Merge highlighted Yeoman’s robust financial profile—$1.03M in revenue and $384K in adjusted EBITDA—with a valuation of $1.4M based on a 3.6x multiple. The agency’s consistent growth, proprietary data systems, and high client diversification made it a standout in the Amazon marketing space. Growth opportunities including deeper Walmart service offerings, productizing Yeoman’s analytics tool, and more consistent marketing efforts were positioned as levers for future scale.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Merge positioned Yeoman as a lean, high-margin Amazon marketing firm with proprietary capabilities and proven results. Its deep experience across both 1P and 3P Amazon programs, along with a client base generating millions in marketplace revenue, attracted multiple strategic acquirers looking to expand their e-commerce capabilities.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Yeoman Technologies was acquired by Meet the People, a network of forward-thinking agencies with a focus on tech-driven marketing. The acquisition provided Yeoman with resources to scale its analytics platform and strengthen its Amazon capabilities, while keeping the existing team and leadership intact.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Merge partnered closely with Michael to articulate Yeoman’s unique value to the market, position it effectively to qualified buyers, and drive a smooth and collaborative diligence process. The result was a high-value exit that achieved the founder’s financial and strategic goals, while ensuring continuity and future growth potential for Yeoman Technologies.
(09)Finding a New Home
Merge played a central role in identifying the right buyer, crafting a compelling market narrative, and guiding both sides through the deal. From positioning Kitcaster as the top agency in a high-growth vertical to aligning the seller’s goals with Moburst’s acquisition strategy, Merge helped ensure this was a win-win for everyone involved. The result is a thriving agency that’s now part of a larger vision—continuing to grow and create impact in the podcasting and PR world.
(01)Engagement
Overview
Founded in 2009, Punch PR is a Milwaukee-based public relations agency specializing in media relations, influencer marketing, and brand activations. Built by co-founders Lauren Grimm and David Racine, the agency earned a reputation for crafting tailored, results-driven campaigns for clients like Fromm Family Foods, KEEN Utility, and Generac. Known for its long-standing client relationships and 90% retainer-based revenue model, Punch PR combined creative strategy with operational stability through a lean, experienced team of seven. After more than a decade of consistent performance, Punch PR was acquired by Trozzolo Communications Group, a values-aligned agency looking to expand its footprint in Milwaukee and continue delivering integrated, high-impact communications work across the Midwest.
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
With complementary backgrounds in media relations, communications, and event production, co-founders Lauren Grimm and David Racine created Punch PR as a trusted, high-performing agency grounded in strategy and measurable results. Headquartered in Milwaukee, the firm quickly built a name for itself in the Midwest and beyond by delivering standout work in media relations, influencer marketing, and brand activations. The agency’s success was driven by a lean team of seven, a commitment to long-term client relationships, and an impressive portfolio featuring brands like Fromm Family Foods, KEEN Utility, and Generac. With 90% of revenue generated from recurring retainers, Punch PR’s business model offered stability, predictability, and room to scale.
(03)Founder's
Motive
The founders of Punch PR were looking to take some chips off the table while securing a partner that could help expand opportunities for both their team and their clients. They also wanted to join forces with a broader leadership team that shared their values and vision. Both Lauren and David were committed to staying on and continuing to guide client strategy and agency direction post-sale.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Lauren and David were seeking a buyer that could offer broader leadership support while maintaining Punch PR’s culture and client-first approach. The ideal partner would have a strong Midwest presence, a commitment to team development, and a collaborative mindset that aligned with Punch PR’s values and long-term vision.
(05)Setting the Stage
To prepare the agency for market, Merge highlighted Punch PR’s financial performance—$1.03M in revenue and $182K in EBITDA—alongside its high client retention rate and retainer-based model. The agency was valued at $650K based on a 3.6x multiple of EBITDA. Punch PR was positioned as a mission-driven agency with a stellar track record and a team eager to scale. Opportunities for growth through outbound lead generation, expanded service offerings, and enhanced business development capabilities helped drive buyer interest.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Merge marketed Punch PR as a rare opportunity to acquire a well-respected PR agency with long-standing client relationships and a highly engaged leadership team. The firm’s presence in the Midwest, coupled with its reputation in sectors like CPG and energy, attracted attention from buyers seeking to deepen their geographic and industry reach.
(07)Sealing the Deal
Punch PR was acquired by Trozzolo Communications Group, a values-aligned agency with complementary services and a desire to grow its presence in Milwaukee. Lauren and David remained on board to help integrate operations and expand client services, making the transition seamless.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
Since the acquisition, both agencies have benefited from shared resources, new business development opportunities, and an expanded talent bench. Punch PR has continued to operate under its own brand while tapping into Trozzolo’s broader network, unlocking new opportunities for growth across the region.
(09)Finding a New Home
Merge worked closely with Punch PR to craft a narrative that resonated with the right buyers, facilitated a smooth diligence process, and negotiated a deal that met the founders’ goals. By staying focused on cultural fit and long-term potential, Merge helped Punch PR find a new home that values both its past and future.
(01)Engagement
Overview
Established in 2021, Salient Global is a dynamic integrated marketing and communications agency dedicated to driving growth. The agency prioritizes delivering employee and customer-centric experiences that are adaptable across various channels and grounded in data. Their approach is designed to achieve meaningful results and create lasting impacts for their clients.
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
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.
(03)Buyer’s Motive
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.
(04)Buyer’s Vision
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.
(05)Setting the Stage
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.
(06)Attracting Suitors
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.
(07)Sealing the Deal
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.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
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.
(09)Finding a New Home
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.”
(01)Engagement
Overview
Established in 2012, Candor is an award-winning PR agency known for its excellence in elevating brands, storytelling, and crisis management. At the heart of this narrative is the founder, Karen Wicker, a trailblazing female leader, who after a decade of successful growth and development, sought to take the agency to new heights.
Candor partnered with Merge on the pursuit of seeking the ideal culturally aligned buyer, who also had the ability to further grow and scale the agency. The Candor Acquisition is a testament to the power of visionary leadership, strategic planning, and the importance of cultural alignment in the expansive world of public relations.
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
Built on the principle of fostering authenticity through communication, Candor operates as an extended marketing arm for clients, offering expertise in public relations, social media, digital advertising, communications, public affairs, and video content.
(03)Founder's
Motive
Karen Wicker, the founder of Candor and a prominent female leader in the industry, embarked on building her own agency after gaining extensive experience in C-suite roles at other agencies. With a decade of successful growth, Karen recognized that for Candor to further expand and enhance its capabilities, additional support was necessary as the agency was operating at its full capacity.
(04)Founder’s Vision
In her pursuit of an acquisition partner, Karen’s priority was to find a buyer who not only embraced but also resonated with Candor’s culture. She sought a partner with the vision and resources to effectively scale the agency, ensuring the continued growth and success of Candor.
(05)Setting the Stage
Under Karen’s guidance, Candor was strategically prepared for acquisition. The agency was positioned strongly in the market, showcasing its capacity to foster growth and expand its size, making it an attractive prospect for potential buyers.
(06)Attracting Suitors
To find the right acquisition partner, Candor collaborated with Merge. The focus was on identifying a buyer who would align with Candor’s unique culture and growth aspirations, ensuring a seamless integration and future expansion.
(07)Sealing the Deal
The Candor acquisition process was centered around finding a buyer who would not only understand the essence of Candor’s operations but also contribute to its strategic growth, respecting the values and ethos that define Candor.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
The successful Candor acquisition opened doors to new opportunities, allowing the agency to leverage synergies with the buyer, enhancing its capabilities, and setting the stage for a new era of growth and innovation.
(01)Engagement
Overview
Founded in 1991 by Suzanne Shelton, Shelton Group has carved out a unique niche as a Knoxville-based marketing agency, specializing in ESG & sustainability communications. Renowned for its thought leadership, Shelton Group is known for its influential Pulse® Insights Work, a widely recognized educational resource in the sustainability industry. This specialization not only positions Shelton Group at the forefront of ESG marketing but also underscores its role in guiding brands towards more impactful and responsible business practices.
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
Shelton Group, a trailblazer in the realm of sustainability marketing, stands out for its specialized expertise in crafting compelling ESG and sustainability communication platforms. Shelton Group’s unique focus on integrating sustainability into marketing narratives makes it a pivotal player in shaping how businesses communicate their commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
(03)Founder's
Motive
Suzanne Shelton was driven to find an acquisition partner that shared her passion for sustainability and could amplify the strategic impact of her agency’s work. Her goal was to find a larger platform that would allow her to focus more on her passion for public speaking and spreading the mission of ESG work, leveraging her 30+ years of expertise in the field.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Suzanne envisioned an acquisition partner that could expand Shelton Group’s capabilities, increase client outreach, and provide her with the resources to focus on her speaking engagements. She sought a partner that would not only understand the significance of Shelton Group’s work but also enhance its reach on a global scale.
(05)Setting the Stage
Shelton Group was prepared for acquisition with a focus on highlighting its status as a leading female-founded ESG marketing agency, expertise in storytelling and communications, and its established position in the sustainability market.
(06)Attracting Suitors
With Suzanne’s specific vision in mind, Merge began searching for potential buyers who could align with Shelton Group’s specialization in ESG communications and offer the necessary global platform for expansion.
(07)Sealing the Deal
ERM, a company with global recognition and a goal to bolster its sustainability expertise, emerged as the ideal buyer. Their interest in Shelton Group early in the acquisition process evolved into a clear alignment of goals and objectives.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
The acquisition by ERM presented Shelton Group with an opportunity to expand its impact on a global scale, combining its deep expertise in sustainability communications with ERM’s worldwide recognition and resources.
(09)Finding a New Home
Merge played an instrumental role in this acquisition, aligning Shelton Group with ERM – a buyer that not only met the strategic goals but also shared the cultural values and global vision of Shelton Group, ensuring a successful and synergistic partnership.
(01)Engagement
Overview
Established in 2000 by Erin Millerschin, The Millerschin Group (TMG) is a Michigan-based PR agency known for its specialization in marketing communications and public relations for the mobility industry. With over two decades of automotive and mobility experience, The Millerschin Group has excelled in strategic planning and social media, aiding clients in achieving significant business objectives.
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
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.
(03)Founder's
Motive
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.
(04)Founder’s Vision
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.
(05)Setting the Stage
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.
(06)Attracting Suitors
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.
(07)Sealing the Deal
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.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
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.
(09)Finding a New Home
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.
(01)Engagement
Overview
Founded in 2011 by Kelsey Raymond, Influence & Co emerged as a trailblazing content marketing agency with a woman-led team. The agency was born out of a need for more effective PR and marketing strategies that drive measurable business results. Specializing in strategic content marketing, Influence & Co has spent over a decade simplifying content marketing for companies, strategizing, creating, publishing, and maximizing content to drive tangible outcomes.
(02)Inside The
Enterprise
Influence & Co sets itself apart in the content marketing arena with its unique focus on developing and executing content strategies that directly contribute to clients’ business goals, particularly in lead generation and SEO. Their distinct methodology, combining custom technology with access to a vast network of publications, enables them to craft industry-leading content that elevates their clients’ thought leadership and digital presence.
(03)Founder's
Motive
Kelsey Raymond was not seeking a typical exit but rather a growth partner for Influence & Co. She envisioned a future where her team could continue to flourish and where cross-selling opportunities with a strategic partner would capitalize on the agency’s significant growth potential. Kelsey reached out to Merge for their expertise in matching agencies with ideal partners that align with their cultural, strategic, and financial objectives.
(04)Founder’s Vision
Kelsey’s ideal buyer for Influence & Co was one that resonated with the agency’s culture and ethos. She sought a partner who understood the business, shared a commitment to the agency’s growth, and could provide opportunities for her team to reach their full potential.
(05)Setting the Stage
Influence & Co thrived under its results-driven content marketing approach, earning a reputation as an industry leader, especially in the mobile video game space. With proprietary technologies like MultiVid and LaunchPad enhancing their service offerings, the agency was in a prime position to grow further under new leadership.
(06)Attracting Suitors
Partnering with Merge, Kelsey aimed to find the perfect buyer for Influence & Co. Utilizing their extensive network and deep understanding of the agency market, Merge showcased Influence & Co’s unique value proposition, attracting potential buyers who could appreciate and enhance the agency’s established success.
(07)Sealing the Deal
The ideal acquisition partner for Influence & Co was found in Everlane Equity, a private capital provider with a portfolio of complementary companies. Everlane Equity’s commitment to accelerating value creation and its network of aligned businesses promised a synergistic future for Influence & Co.
(08)Unlocking Synergies
The acquisition by Everlane Equity opened new doors for Influence & Co, enabling the agency to tap into cross-selling opportunities and benefit from Everlane’s industry expertise and resources. This strategic partnership was set to enhance Influence & Co’s service offerings and market reach, fostering significant growth.
(09)Finding a New Home
Merge played an integral role in facilitating this acquisition, ensuring that Influence & Co found a new home where its potential for growth and innovation would be maximized. Their strategic approach and tailored acquisition process reflected their commitment to facilitating successful, synergistic business matches in the digital marketing industry.