Tag: influencer agency

Australia – Hoozu, an influencer marketing agency and a subsidiary of IZEA Worldwide has announced the acquisition of 26 Talent, an Australian talent management agency. This strategic acquisition strengthens Hoozu’s capabilities and expands its footprint in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, in line with IZEA’s global M&A strategy.

The acquisition of 26 Talent marks a significant milestone in Hoozu’s journey. It reinforces the company’s commitment to growth, expanding its influence and capabilities through strategic mergers and acquisitions. This move is part of a broader strategy to build a diverse and robust portfolio of services and talent that can cater to the evolving needs of brands and creators across the region.

Moreover, with 26 Talent’s strong reputation and innovative approach to talent management, Hoozu is set to enhance its service offerings significantly. The integration will provide clients access to a broader range of influencers, more comprehensive marketing solutions, and cutting-edge strategies that drive engagement and results. 

This synergy is also expected to unlock new opportunities for both brands and creators, ensuring that Hoozu remains at the forefront of influencer marketing trends.

“This acquisition is a testament to IZEA’s commitment to growing its presence in the APAC region, both organically and through strategic acquisitions. By integrating 26 Talent’s expertise and network, Hoozu aims to deliver unparalleled influencer marketing solutions, fostering creativity and driving impactful campaigns,” according to a press statement.

As part of the acquisition, the agency will be folded under Huume, Hoozu’s talent representation business. Mikhailla Fitzgerald, founder and CEO of 26 Talent, will lead Huume, reporting directly to Natalie Giddings, CEO of Hoozu, ensuring a smooth transition and integration.

“Joining forces with Hoozu opens up remarkable opportunities for our talent and clients. We are thrilled to become part of a forward-thinking company that shares our commitment to excellence and innovation in influencer marketing,” FItzgerald said.

Meanwhile, Giddings commented, “We are incredibly excited to welcome 26 Talent into the Hoozu family. Their impressive roster of talent and innovative approach to influencer marketing perfectly align with our mission to lead the industry in APAC. This acquisition not only broadens our capabilities but also enhances the value we bring to our clients and creators.”

Sydney, Australia – Former Havas Co-maker’s founder, Tim Rasbash, and Adhesive PR’s founder and managing director, Mike Maurice, have joined forces to launch a new ambassador, advocacy, and influencer agency, Yellow.

Rasbash, who is responsible for co-founding One Green Bean and Havas’ social influencer division, met Maurice while working on mutual client Dyson ANZ. Years later after identifying a gap in the market, the duo set out to redefine the often grey area of influencer and ambassador marketing with their latest agency offering. 

The new influencer agency, which was launched with foundation clients Sony Electronics and employment marketplace SEEK, aims to combat inauthenticity in the social influencer and ambassador space. It was created with the objective to combat the increased lack of trust within the social influencer industry. Moreover, Yellow will be setting out to facilitate deep, multifaceted relationships between brands and talent, creating partnerships that seek out genuine brand fans.

Rasbash noted that their agency sets out to offer bespoke solutions to brands that help them harness the full potential of social influencers, creators, and talent by ensuring they are the real deal. 

“We called ourselves Yellow as it is the color of friendship. This is exactly what we’re driven to create between brands and their partners. We want them to step away from the one-off highly scripted and transactional-based agreements, into richer, more mutually beneficial relationships,” said Rasbash.

Meanwhile, Maurice commented, “We’re witnessing a steady rise in the social commerce space, and by designing an agency that is anchored in authenticity and true relationships we’re setting a new benchmark for what client success can look like in this area.”

Yellow announced that it will operate independently from Adhesive, while working collaboratively across a number of shared clients.