French advertising company Publicis Groupe has acquired Atomic 212, Australia’s largest independent media agency.
Atomic 212 will remain an autonomous subsidiary of Publicis Groupe ANZ. Its clients include BHP, WeightWatchers, and Tourism NT.
“We have grown Atomic 212° into a world-class media operation, but we recognise that the complexity of marketing requires holistic services for our clients,” said Atomic 212 chairman Barry O’Brien. “By joining the global best in this regard, we are confident that we can offer our staff and clients an even better experience moving into the future.”
“The last thing I'm going to do is acquire Australia's fastest growing media agency and tell them what to do. So it's got complete empowerment from the group to continue to do what it's been doing,” said Publicis Groupe ANZ CEO Mike Rebelo.
While the companies did not disclose the acquisition price, Mi3 estimated the transaction at A$35 million to $50 million.
Atomic 212 reported A$73 million in new business in 2023.
Publicis Groupe also acquired United States-based digital marketing agency Dysrupt for an undisclosed amount this week.
Publicis Groupe’s share price (EPA: PUB) closed at EU€101.25, up from its previous close at €100.85. Its market capitalisation is €25.4 billion.
