Merchantwise Group has acquired social media and influencer marketing agencies The Social CliQ and The Content CliQ.
With a team of more than 70 across Australia and a growing presence in Europe and China, Merchantwise Group says it has seen revenue growth of over 300% in the past five years.
Today, its brand management division – comprising Merchantwise and Asembl – is said to be the largest independent licensing agency in Australia and New Zealand representing some of the world’s “most iconic” gaming, entertainment, FMCG, and lifestyle brands. These include Minecraft, Sonic the Hedgehog, Xbox, Call of Duty, Peppa Pig, The Beatles, Violet Crumble, Golden Gaytime, Chupa Chups, Bundaberg Rum, and Rip Curl.
Merchantwise Group’s strategic expansion has been marked by key acquisitions, including RQMedia in 2022, its flagship performance media and marketing business. RQMedia, which integrates former acquisitions Impulse Screen Media, Inc Digital Media, and SmartMail, supports over 100 client brands across retail, e-commerce, travel, and consumer services.
According to the company, its acquisition of The Social CliQ and The Content CliQ will place Merchantwise Group at the forefront of social media, user-generated content and influencer marketing. These businesses were founded and led by 29-year-old Managing Director Talia Datt (Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2022).
Ms Datt will continue as Managing Director of both businesses while progressively taking on a broader marketing leadership role across the Merchantwise Group.
Merchantwise Group CEO Alan Schauder says the company is delighted to welcome The Social CliQ and The Content CliQ into the Merchantwise Group family.
“Talia Datt is a visionary marketer who is making waves in the industry,” he says. “Her dynamic team is at the forefront of strategic social media and influencer marketing in Australia, and their talents will enhance our group’s ability to drive brand growth and deliver superior returns for our clients.
“Looking ahead, Merchantwise Group will continue to innovate and expand its presence in Australia and globally through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions.”
Ms Datt says joining forces with Merchantwise Group is an incredible milestone, and her team couldn’t be more excited about the opportunities ahead.
“Merchantwise Group represents some of the world’s most iconic and beloved brands, and we’re thrilled to bring our expertise in social, content, and creator marketing to help these brands reach and engage their audiences in new and innovative ways,” she says.
“This partnership is a perfect fit, and we can’t wait to make big things happen together.”