Dentsu Aegis Network acquires Media Storm

Dentsu Aegis Network yesterday announced the acquisition of Media Storm, an US agency, headquartered in New York, and specialized in data-driven audience planning and targeting. Media Storm’s 167 employees will transition to Merkle, and Craig Woerz will remain Media Storm’s Managing Partner, reporting directly to Patrick Hounsell, EVP, Media Services at Merkle.

According to Dentsu Aegis Network, Media Storm has deep roots in the media and entertainment industries, helping networks, cable, apps, and theatrical companies grow ratings, subscriptions, box office, and brand awareness success throughout its 18-year history. Media Storm also has a strong track record in the retail and travel/tourism sectors.

Dentsu Aegis Network says the acquisition will strengthen Merkle’s media solutions in a number of key areas including the rapidly growing tune-in and over-the-top (OTT) media services. Media Storm’s approach to using audience decision science to drive planning and optimization is a complement to Merkle’s industry-leading, people-based marketing approach.

“There are very few companies that make perfect sense to unite with, and Merkle is that agency. The power of our combined agencies is unmatched in the industry,” said Craig Woerz, managing partner and co-founder of Media Storm. “We both do what we say and deliver on our promise to clients. I couldn’t be more inspired to elevate data-led innovation in accountable media as a part of the Merkle family.”