Ketchum Acquires Capstrat

NEW YORK and RALEIGH, N.C., Jan. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading global communications consultancy Ketchum today announced its acquisition of Capstrat, a top independent firm based in the Research Triangle Park area of Raleigh, N.C. The move significantly expands Ketchum's presence in the Southern United States, which currently includes offices in Atlanta, Dallas and Miami, while Capstrat's expertise in public affairs, healthcare, energy and technology adds greater depth to Ketchum's client offer. For Capstrat, joining Ketchum enables them to provide global solutions and greater diversity of services for their multi-national clients.

Capstrat's corporate public affairs offering will join Ketchum's international public affairs network, which currently has centers in Washington, D.C., New York, London, Brussels, Madrid, Berlin, Rome, Moscow, Mumbai and Hong Kong. Capstrat also has strength in other areas of strategic importance that are complementary to Ketchum, including creative, social media and analytics. Capstrat has a diverse client base across the healthcare, energy, technology and professional services industries.

Named PRWeek's Agency of the Year in 2012, Ketchum has completed a number of strategic mergers and acquisitions that have added greater depth, reach and new areas of specialization to the agency. 

"This acquisition is another important milestone in Ketchum's strategic growth plan.  We are excited to bring our two firms together to meet clients' business objectives. Through our partnership with Capstrat, we are not only adding expertise, but more importantly, we are adding incredible talent to the agency," said Rob Flaherty, CEO of Ketchum.

Capstrat will continue operating under its current brand, led by CEO and founder Ken Eudy, as part of Ketchum's North American operations.

"Ketchum and Capstrat share very similar cultures and priorities. Ken and his leadership team have built a successful agency focused on blending strategy and creativity, attracting and growing the best talent, building longstanding client relationships through superior service, and a deep commitment to corporate social responsibility. We look forward to working together," said Rob Lorfink, president and chief operating officer of Ketchum.

Eudy said, "This is an exciting time for Capstrat. I see great potential for our clients and colleagues as we become part of the Ketchum network. Our stakeholders will benefit from the depth of talent, extraordinary commitment to employee development, and broad geographic reach that Ketchum offers. I can't wait to be an active contributor to the network, as well."

In addition to Eudy, Capstrat's executive management team includes the firm's president, Karen Albritton; Todd Coats, chief creative officer; and Debbie Reed, CFO. Under the team's leadership, Capstrat has built a roster of world class clients, achieved several consecutive years of strong growth, and among other awards, has made frequent appearances on the list of finalists for PRWeek's Midsize Agency of the Year. Capstrat will continue to be located in Raleigh, N.C. 

About Ketchum
Ketchum is a leading global communications firm with operations in more than 70 countries across six continents. Named 2012 PR Agency of the Year (PRWeek) and the winner of an unprecedented three consecutive PRWeek Campaign of the Year Awards, Ketchum partners with clients to deliver strategic programming, game-changing creative and measurable results that build brands and reputations. For more information on Ketchum, a part of Diversified Agency Services, a division of Omnicom Group Inc., visit www.ketchum.com.

About Capstrat
Capstrat, a communications agency based in Raleigh, N.C., solves the complex issues that health care, technology, energy/infrastructure and financial organizations face at critical moments. Capstrat blends marketing communications, interactive communications, public relations and public affairs to tell stories with power and persuasion. Visit www.capstrat.com.

About Diversified Agency Services
Diversified Agency Services (DAS), a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) (www.omnicomgroup.com), manages Omnicom's holdings in a variety of marketing communications disciplines. DAS includes over 200 companies, which operate through a combination of networks and regional organizations, serving international and local clients through more than 700 offices in 71 countries.

About Omnicom Group Inc.
Omnicom Group Inc. (www.omnicomgroup.com) is a leading global marketing and corporate communications company. Omnicom's branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, direct and promotional marketing, public relations, and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 100 countries.

SOURCE Ketchum