Omnicom (NYSE: OMC) has cemented its foothold in Germany, the fourth largest advertising market in the world, with the acquisition of Grabarz & Partner, a creative agency headquartered in Hamburg. Founded in 1993, Grabarz & Partner has more than 260 employees and works with prominent global and local clients such as Deutsche Bahn, Ikea, Lidl and Porsche. It has been recognized on a number of fronts, including making the Cannes Lions’ list of Top Ten Independent Agencies of the Decade.
Grabarz & Partner’s management team will continue to serve in their current roles following the closing of the transaction.
“We’re thrilled to add one of the most creative agencies in Germany to our roster and to lean into its stellar reputation in one of Europe’s most important economic regions for our clients,” said John Wren, chairman and CEO of Omnicom. “Our shared vision for creative excellence is what drew us to them, and we look forward to the impact they’ll make as part of Omnicom.”
Ralf Heuel, co-founder and managing partner at Grabarz & Partner, said, “Throughout our 30 years of existence, we’ve received many offers for our agency. Omnicom was the first one that truly piqued our interest as they presented us a tailor-made plan that took into account our goals and vision, our strategy as a creative agency, and, above all, our unique culture formed by the last three decades. We are convinced this will be another successful chapter for Grabarz & Partner, one in which all our clients and employees will benefit.”
The transaction is expected to close during the third quarter of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval.
