PR Agency ✳︎
Our process is fast, easy to understand, and founder friendly.
(SCROLL)
Thinking about selling your PR agency? We’ll guide you from valuation to close with a smooth, white-glove process.
Whether you run a PR firm, communications consultancy, or media relations agency, we help PR founders unlock the full value of what they’ve built. From expert valuations to curated buyer matches, we make the process stress-free and tailored to you.
We like to sell PR agencies that have:

Sustainable Margins
Above 15%

Healthy profit
From $500K to $5M

Successful operations
Of three years or longer

A positive and ethical approach
No sketchy stuff
And bonus points for businesses that have:

A simple business model
You can explain it to your parents

A unique advantage
Like service offering or niche

A high-quality team
A great team with a positive culture

Solid transition plan
Of 90 days or longer

Strong Customer Economics
Long-term retainers, recurring media wins, and high client renewal rates

Operational Stability
Defined roles, efficient delivery, and consistent campaign timelines

Brand IP or Differentiation
Proprietary frameworks, niche focus, or standout client roster

Clean Metrics & Low Return Rates
Buyers love clarity — and low returns = high confidence
We work with founders who decide to sell their PR agencies for the following reasons:

Market Timing
The founder sees strong client demand, solid financials, or positive PR trends and wants to sell while valuations are high to maximize return before the market shifts.

Operational Burnout
Running a PR firm means juggling clients, media, deadlines, and growth. Founders may sell to step back from the hustle and regain freedom.

Scaling Limitations
Some PR firms hit a growth ceiling and need a partner to scale. That could mean expanding services, hiring senior talent, or tapping into a larger media network.

Industry Disruption
Shifts in media trends, platform changes, or evolving client needs can prompt PR founders to sell before competitiveness becomes harder to maintain. Firms that rely heavily on one service or channel may feel this most.

Life Changes
Family needs, health priorities, or lifestyle goals often lead PR founders to consider an exit while the agency is still performing well. Selling creates space for new focus and personal balance.

New Ventures
Many PR founders are serial entrepreneurs. After growing one firm, they may feel ready to pursue a new passion, build another brand, or explore something different while unlocking time and capital.

Team Transitions
Key team members may be moving on, or the founder no longer wants to manage staff, freelancers, or client accounts. It may be the right time to hand things off.

Exit Planning Strategies
Some PR founders always planned to sell and are now executing that plan after reaching the right size, reputation, and valuation in the market.

Strategic Buyout
An unexpected offer from a strategic buyer or aggregator can align with the founder’s goals and prompt a sale, even if they weren’t actively looking.
Don’t go at this alone. Use our resources. Get inspired by our market guides and let’s tackle this together.


How to Sell a PR Agency Like a Pro
Selling your PR agency doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. This step-by-step guide covers valuation, preparation, marketing, and closing. At Merge, we combine expert strategy with hands-on support to help PR agency founders exit smoothly and successfully.


When to Sell Your PR Agency for Maximum Value
Timing your exit can make all the difference. This guide helps PR agency founders understand the best time to sell based on performance, market conditions, and personal goals. At Merge, we combine expert strategy with hands-on support to help PR agency owners exit at the right time and maximize value.


Valuing a PR Agency the Right Way
Knowing what your PR agency is worth is key to a successful exit. This guide explains how buyers value PR agencies and what drives higher multiples. At Merge, we combine expert strategy with hands-on support to help PR agency founders achieve a fair and rewarding valuation.


Preparing a PR Agency for Sale the Smart Way
Preparing your PR agency for sale doesn’t have to be complicated. This guide covers key steps like financial preparation, team readiness, and client diversification. At Merge, we combine expert strategy with hands-on support to help PR agency founders prepare confidently and exit successfully.


What Buyers Look for When Acquiring a PR Agency
Acquiring a PR agency can accelerate growth if you know what to look for. This guide helps buyers evaluate opportunities, assess fit, and understand value drivers. At Merge, we combine expert strategy with hands-on support to help buyers make confident, informed acquisitions.


Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a PR Agency
Avoiding common mistakes is key to a successful sale. This guide helps PR agency founders identify pitfalls around preparation, valuation, and buyer fit. At Merge, we combine expert strategy with hands-on support to help PR agency owners sell smoothly and maximize value.


Taxes on Selling a PR Agency What Founders Need to Know
Understanding taxes is essential to a successful exit. This guide explains what PR agency founders need to know about deal structure, capital gains, and planning ahead. At Merge, we combine expert strategy with hands-on support to help PR agency owners navigate taxes and maximize their proceeds.


How to Build an Exit Strategy for Your PR Agency
A thoughtful exit strategy helps PR agency founders plan ahead and maximize value. This guide covers setting goals, preparing operations, and identifying the right buyer. At Merge, we combine expert strategy with hands-on support to help PR agency owners exit smoothly and successfully.

Step 1: Initial Consultation
We start with a confidential chat to understand your goals, timing, and how your PR firm operates. This helps us build a clear exit plan based on your service mix, team structure, and ownership setup.

Step 2: Valuation
Our team conducts a full valuation based on your firm’s financials, revenue streams (retainers, project work, media spend), and current market trends. We assess client mix, margins, and growth to set a data-backed asking price.

Step 3: Market Positioning
We identify your strongest selling points such as long-term client relationships, media expertise, or team structure. Then we position your firm to attract the right buyers and generate strong market interest.

Step 4: Preparation of Marketing Materials
We create a visually engaging, data-rich prospectus that highlights your PR firm’s story, core services, team structure, financials, and future growth potential.

Step 5: Buyer Identification and Screening
Using our curated buyer network, we match your PR firm with serious, pre-qualified acquirers who understand the communications space and are actively seeking firms like yours.

Step 6: Presentations and Meetings
We set up meetings with top buyer candidates and guide you through every interaction. You’ll feel confident sharing your firm’s story while we manage the logistics behind the scenes.

Step 7: Negotiations and Offers
Once offers come in, we help you compare terms, negotiate price, and protect your interests — whether it’s cash at close, a transition plan, or an earn-out.

Step 8: Due Diligence
We organize your PR firm’s key operational and financial documents, including client contracts, team structure, and reporting. Our goal is to keep the process smooth and moving toward close.

Step 9: Closing and Transition
We finalize documents, coordinate the handoff of clients and assets, and guide you through a seamless transition. Whether you’re exiting fully or staying short-term, we make sure it goes smoothly!
Our fee structure is simple, transparent, and aligned with your success.
During the engagement, while our team works to match your PR agency with the perfect buyer, you’ll pay a monthly retainer ranging from $5,000–$20,000 depending on the size and complexity of your business. When the deal closes, you pay a success fee equal to 10% of the cash consideration received at closing. No hidden fees, no surprises—just a structure designed to keep everyone incentivized and focused on your best outcome.

Our Strategic Engagements Are Designed to Maximize Your Exit.
Our three signature engagements go beyond traditional M&A advisory, helping PR agency founders confidently navigate every phase of selling their business. Backed by deep industry expertise and a proven track record, each engagement is designed to meet your firm’s specific goals. Whether you're preparing your PR agency for sale, fielding buyer interest, or ready to go to market, our process delivers clarity, confidence, and maximum return.

1. Valuation Only
(Understand & Assess)
For PR founders who want to understand what their firm is worth, this engagement delivers a clear, data-backed valuation based on industry benchmarks and key PR metrics. You’ll gain the insights you need to decide if, when, and how to sell — with no pressure attached.

2. Transaction Support
(Advise & Execute)
If you already have a buyer in place, we’ll step in to guide you through the deal. We help structure terms, negotiate price, manage diligence, and protect your interests through closing. It’s expert support without the full-market process.

3. Full Go-to-Market Representation
(Prepare & Represent)
This is the full-service, white-glove experience for PR agency founders. We handle everything from valuation, positioning, and buyer outreach to negotiations and closing. You can stay focused on running your firm while we manage the entire exit process. It’s the ideal option for founders looking for top-dollar offers, the right strategic fit, and a smooth, seamless transition.
Since 2015, we've guided over 1,000 businesses through valuations & acquisitions.
In the dynamic realm of M&A, experience isn't just a bonus—it's the key ingredient that empowers buyers and sellers to navigate the intricate process with assurance and also achieve their goals.
SCS Goes Public With PopReach
Brandon Agency Acquires Social Media Dynamo JoyByte
PR Agency Candor Acquired by Salient Global
The Creative Momentum Acquired By CloudMellow
Big Footprint Digital Joins PE Backed Fusion92
Origin Outside Acquired By Hospitality Giant MMGY Global
Trendy Minds Secures Private Equity Backing from Contour Ridge
Gravity Global Acquires Hubspot Agency Mojo Media Labs
KonvertLab Acquired By Industry Powerhouse Taktical Digital
Likeable Acquired By Global Digital Transformation Firm 10Pearls
Some Merge Lovin' 💛
- Erika TaylorGeneral ManagerLinkflowWorking with Merge to sell Linkflow was an outstanding experience. The team demonstrated deep M&A knowledge while remaining incredibly responsive and supportive throughout. I was initially nervous about due diligence, but Merge streamlined the process and made it surprisingly manageable. Hannah Sibel was fantastic—always quick to troubleshoot with positive energy and expertise. What impressed me most was their balanced guidance—they offered valuable insights without ever pushing us into decisions. I would recommend Merge without hesitation to any agency considering a sale. 10/10 experience!
- Greg DerrChief Financial OfficerThe Harkey GroupWorking with Merge was a game-changer for the sale of Nomadic Agency. As M&A newcomers, we needed full-service support—sourcing buyers, managing valuation, and handling negotiations—and Merge delivered. Their expertise secured the best deal, and they guided us through the diligence process with confidence and clarity. Special thanks to Hannah and Ethan for their professionalism and responsiveness. Merge made a complex sale feel seamless. I highly recommend them to any founder considering a sale.
- Josh ElkinFounderLinkflowWorking with Merge was an excellent experience from start to finish. Their extensive network brought a diverse pool of qualified buyers, giving me options to find the perfect match for Linkflow. Throughout every phase—valuation, outreach, negotiation and closing—they were communicative, responsive and genuinely helpful. It was a pleasure working with a team that truly knows their stuff and prioritizes your goals. I highly recommend Merge to anyone looking to sell their digital marketing agency!
- Scott ParkFounder & CEOMookoMerge was constantly following up and on top of things for all partners and delivered results on time. Merge provided insights, a strong team, and the highest quality of buyers to facilitate a successful acquisition for Mooko. What I found most impressive was their team and pool of investors and buyers. Their hands-on approach and transparent communication made the entire process seamless and stress-free.
- Daryl HivelyFounder & CEOGuarantee DigitalThey helped me find a buyer for my agency. Helped us establish a value, put a prospectus together, and marketed the business to their large list of possible buyers. We had four LOIs within two weeks, one that became our eventual buyer. Merge knew my industry, specialized in selling ad agencies, and had a list of buyers looking to make a purchase. Their expert guidance and proactive outreach made the entire process smooth and efficient.
- Brandon JonesManaging DirectorPPC SideKickWhat I found most impressive about this company was their exceptional professionalism, deep industry knowledge, and proactive communication. They consistently demonstrated a high level of expertise, providing valuable insights and guidance tailored to PPC SideKick’s specific needs. Moreover, their proactive approach to communication ensured that we were always kept informed and engaged throughout the process, fostering a strong sense of trust and confidence in their abilities.
- Hayley BerlentFounder & CEOAdditive AgencyAs a founder, deciding whether to sell a business — how and to whom — is deeply personal. That’s why I’m so grateful to have worked with Merge every step of the way. From conducting a valuation to pursuing the sale, the team took the time to understand my ambitions and fears. They guided me through the process with clarity and confidence — from developing marketing materials and curating buyers to facilitating the deal for Additive Agency. In the end, I found the perfect match: operational independence with access to capital and a broader support ecosystem for growth. I will forever be grateful for taking us to the next level.
- Kim GrobFounding PartnerRight OnMerge stood by our side through every step of the sales process. They were so much more than a deal broker—they were our strategic advisors, fierce advocates, and loyal cheerleaders. Their deep industry expertise and personalized approach gave us confidence at every turn. Thanks to their proactive communication and expert negotiation, we closed the deal quickly and exceeded our valuation expectations. Right On is a better agency because of them.
- Ermis SfakiyanudisChief Operating OfficerUproar PrWorking with Merge on the Uproar PR sale was outstanding. From day one, they mapped out a clear process and executed it flawlessly. Led by Sophie Kaldenhoven, the team anticipated challenges, handled complex negotiations, and kept everything on track from valuation through closing. Their deep agency expertise made a complicated deal feel straightforward. I’m thrilled with the result and would highly recommend Merge to any agency owner considering a sale.
- Ibrahim ZafarFounder & CEOLens End MediaWorking with the Merge team on the sale of Lens End Media was great. They provided a clear roadmap from the very beginning. They have deep expertise and experience in the agency space so they walked me through the process effortlessly. Selling a business isn't easy, yet Merge made it feel manageable and successful. I highly recommend them to other agency owners looking to sell.
- Mark SperaCo-FounderGrowth Marketing ProWe had an excellent experience working with Merge. Their super-smooth onboarding brought a wide range of interested buyers and helped us navigate each prospect’s intentions. Ultimately they found the perfect match for a majority buyout for Growth Marketing Pro we didn’t think was possible. We received eight to ten serious inquiries, generated four to five LOIs, and closed the deal. The process took time, as good things do, but Merge’s support made it enjoyable every step of the way.
- Elisabeth EdelmanFounder + CEOGolden WorldI could not have sold my PR and social media agency, Golden World without Merge. I know this to be true because I tried! When I partnered with Merge, they gave me leverage I could not access when selling on my own. They helped price and list the business, connect me with loads of qualified buyers, and navigate me through the sales and negotiation process. Ultimately, I sold the company at asking price and within the timeframe Merge predicted, all to a wonderful buyer who is elevating the firm.
What
The
FAQ
We specialize in working with PR firms across media relations, corporate communications, brand strategy, and influencer marketing. The agencies we support typically have strong client relationships, clean financials, and well-structured teams.
We use EBITDA multiples alongside revenue trends and PR-specific benchmarks like client retention, contract structure, media spend, and service mix. Our approach reflects how real buyers assess value in today’s PR M&A market.
Yes — confidentiality is core to our process. We use blind listings, vetted NDAs, and structured buyer communication to ensure your brand and team aren’t exposed until the right time.
We’ve built a curated network of strategic buyers, holding companies, private equity groups, and high-net-worth individuals actively seeking PR firms. We also run targeted outreach to match your agency with ideal buyers based on size, service focus, and growth potential.
That’s totally fine. Many founders come to us just to understand their valuation or exit options. We’ll give you honest insights and a roadmap, so when the time is right, you’re prepared.
We charge a monthly retainer during the engagement and a success fee based on the cash you receive at closing. Our structure is aligned to get you the best outcome — no hidden costs, ever.
Most PR agency deals take 4 to 6 months from kickoff to close, but timing depends on your readiness, financials, and deal complexity. We’ll move as fast as you’re able to.
Focus on clean financials, organized reporting (like client retention and service line performance), reducing founder involvement, and documenting key processes and team roles. We’ll guide you through the rest.
We do the heavy lifting — outreach, vetting, negotiations — so you can focus on running your business. You’ll join key calls and review offers, but we keep things efficient and founder-friendly.
That depends on your goals and the buyer’s needs. Some founders transition out quickly; others stay on during an earnout. We’ll help structure the post-sale plan that works best for you.