HUNTER and KWT Global Merge to Form a Unified Communications Powerhouse
In a significant move to reshape the communications landscape, Stagwell Inc. (NASDAQ: STGW) has announced the merger of two of its award-winning public relations firms, HUNTER and KWT Global. This strategic union will operate under the name HUNTER, establishing a robust full-service consultancy that boasts nearly 400 employees spread across major cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and London. This merger is expected to amplify HUNTER’s consumer verticals, particularly in financial services, travel, and hospitality, while also expanding capabilities in corporate communications, crisis management, and B2B engagement.
The combined agency will leverage the complementary expertise of both firms to deliver integrated marketing communications solutions that enhance the cultural relevance and reputational strength of client brands. HUNTER aims to create a unified and modern communication framework positioned to help brands navigate today’s intricate media landscape. Mark Penn, Chairman and CEO of Stagwell, emphasized that this merger represents a significant enhancement in providing comprehensive and integrated solutions tailored for modern brands.
HUNTER has a commendable track record, being recognized as a Best Place to Work and earning accolades such as Mid-Sized Agency of the Year and Consumer Agency of the Year for five consecutive years. Meanwhile, KWT Global has been distinguished as a ‘PR Daily Top Agency’ and recognized as a ‘2024 Agency of the Future,’ having doubled its size over the past three years and praised for its innovative product offerings and thought leadership.
Grace Leong, CEO of HUNTER, stated that this merger is a logical progression towards better meeting client needs with integrated and culturally relevant digital solutions. The partnership is expected to maximize the talents of both agencies to collectively tell the stories of leading brands across the globe while focusing on exceptional customer service, a creative approach, and an inclusive corporate culture.
Gabrielle Zucker, the CEO of KWT Global who will now take on the role of Global Chief Client Officer, expressed that this move comes at an opportune time as the communications sector experiences significant transformation. Clients increasingly seek comprehensive solutions for their marketing challenges, and this merger is designed to fulfill those evolving demands.
Both organizations have been known to collaborate regularly. Merging resources and strategies allows them to align their efforts towards a common goal, enhancing the narratives of top companies and garnering valuable consumer attention while accommodating a variety of sectors including food and beverage, technology, retail, and healthcare.
The leadership team of the new entity is comprised entirely of women to further drive innovation and growth, with Grace Leong continuing as CEO, Gigi García Russo serving as Chief Transformation Officer, and Samantha Turtle taking on the role of Chief Operating Officer. Such a leadership composition is intended to foster a supportive and empowering environment for employees and clients alike.
The combined agency will enable existing and prospective clients to benefit from HUNTER’s award-winning consumer expertise while tapping into KWT Global’s ability to facilitate cultural conversations and provide creative solutions. This transformation aims to resonate well with clients from diverse industries such as travel, financial services, health, wellness, luxury, lifestyle, and technology.
HUNTER will continue to promote growth and enhance the reputations of clients across its varied sectors like household goods, fashion, and lifestyle brands. The agency’s portfolio includes leading names such as Amazon, Reckitt, and Danone North America. KWT Global is renowned for its precision-oriented and opportunity-focused strategies, serving notable clients including L’Oreal, IRONMAN, and Technogym.
In summary, the merger of HUNTER and KWT Global will create a formidable integrated communications entity focused on delivering exceptional service and innovative solutions in the ever-evolving media landscape, while simultaneously empowering a diverse and capable leadership team to steer its initiatives.