Havas has acquired Australian independent media agency Hotglue.
The deal is part of Havas' strategic growth plans in the Australian market.
Commercial details haven't been released.
Hotglue, established in 2010 to act as the “glue” that binds it all together, will merge with Havas Media Melbourne.
The new merged Havas Media Melbourne team will be led by Hotglue founders Nick Smith, Lewis Hearn and Matt Hearn.
The combined team will consist of more than 65 people within the Melbourne agency, taking the Havas presence in Melbourne to more than 120 staffers across media, creative, PR, health and digital project management.
Hotglue has a reputation for its integrated social, digital, media and content services, which have driven success for clients in the beauty, retail, FMCG, automotive and finance sectors.
The agency has scaled rapidly over the past five years and proudly counts among its clients leading brands such as L’Oreal, Bulla Dairy, Dulux, Transurban, Sorbent, Thirsty Camel, ISPT, Starward Whisky, IVECO, Walkinshaw, Tempur and LaTrobe Financial.
“Since our inception 14 years ago, Matt, Lewis, and I set out to create the independent agency we always wanted to work in - one our clients deserved and an environment where our staff had the opportunity to flourish," said Nick Smith, co-founder, Hotglue.
"It's been a fun ride, and we've been successful in achieving just that. When Havas knocked on our door, and we got to know Virginia’s future vision, Havas's sense of purpose, and their strategy for the future, it became abundantly clear that this was the next logical step for Hotglue and our team of over 55 dedicated staff.
"We're thrilled to bring our fantastic culture, social, media, and production capabilities and incredibly skilled workforce into the Havas network. This move not only adds support to existing clients but further establishes Havas as a formidable presence in the Melbourne market."
Virginia Hyland, CEO, Havas Media Network AUNZ, said she had been following Hotglue’s success over many years.
"I have always admired the pedigree of the talented team, their strategic smarts and consistent delivery of high-quality results, which has driven their agency’s growth and success," she said.
"Integrating Hotglue into Havas Media Melbourne will enhance our scale and ability to offer comprehensive solutions across the consumer decision making journey for our clients.
"This acquisition supports our progressive Havas Converged strategy and operating system. I look forward to warmly welcoming the Hotglue team as we grow our Melbourne Village footprint, adding even greater depth of skills and expertise to our talented team.”
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