HUNTER Merges with KWT Global to Create Communications Powerhouse
Deal News | Jan 29, 2025 | PR Newswire Cision Stagwell Inc.
Stagwell Inc., a rapidly evolving marketing network, has announced the merger of its two renowned public relations and communications firms, HUNTER and KWT Global. This strategic integration forms a formidable entity under the well-known HUNTER brand. With approximately 400 personnel, the combined agency aims to expand its geographical footprint across major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and London, while enhancing its service offerings in consumer, corporate, and crisis communication domains. The merger is set to unify the expertise of these award-winning agencies to deliver comprehensive, integrated marketing communications for modern brands. By pooling resources, it aims to offer innovative solutions spanning PR, social media, influencer and talent engagement, content creation, and experiential services. Stagwell's Chairman and CEO Mark Penn elaborates on the merger as a step towards creating a communications entity capable of navigating the complexities of today's media landscape. HUNTER, noted for its long-standing client relationships and sustained growth, joining forces with the forward-thinking KWT Global, promises to amplify narratives of leading brands with cultural relevance and industry innovation. This move also sheds light on the evolving communications industry, as clients increasingly seek all-encompassing solutions to address marketing challenges. The executive leadership of the new entity will boast an all-female C-Suite, reinforcing a culture of creativity and inclusiveness. This merger is seen as pivotal in propelling both agencies' capabilities forward, enabling them to cater to an ever-evolving client base more effectively.
Sectors
- Public Relations
- Communications
- Marketing
Geography
- United States – The primary operations and expansions are focused in key US cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
- United Kingdom – The expansion of HUNTER includes operations in London, enhancing its reach in the UK market.
Industry
- Public Relations – The merger creates a powerhouse in the public relations industry, combining expertise and expanding global capabilities.
- Communications – This merger focuses on enhancing integrated marketing communications solutions for modern brands, reflecting the communications industry's need for comprehensive solutions.
- Marketing – The article involves marketing as the combined entities aim to transform marketing solutions in line with Stagwell’s transformational goals.
Financials
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
HUNTER | Merged Company and Target Company | Company | An award-winning consumer marketing communications firm with expanded capabilities post-merger. |
KWT Global | Merged Company | Company | A public relations firm known for precision and possibilities, contributing its innovative solutions and expertise to the merger. |
Stagwell Inc. | Parent Company | Company | The holding company orchestrating the merger, focusing on transforming marketing solutions. |
Mark Penn | Chairman and CEO of Stagwell | Person | Leads the parent company driving the merger towards creating a comprehensive communications solution. |
Grace Leong | CEO of HUNTER | Person | Continuing as CEO post-merger, emphasizing integrated and cutting-edge communication solutions. |
Gabrielle Zucker | CEO of KWT Global and Global Chief Client Officer | Person | Taking on a new role to oversee client experiences in the merger. |
Gigi García Russo | Chief Transformation Officer of HUNTER | Person | Key executive in leading HUNTER's transformation and innovation. |
Samantha Turtle | Chief Operating Officer | Person | Responsible for operations in Los Angeles and leading entertainment marketing for the merged entity. |