PR company Franklin Rae becomes part of the James Grant Group with immediate effect and will retain its name, branding and remain in its offices in Clerkenwell. There have been no redundancies.
All of Franklin Rae’s clients will remain, as there are no conflicts.
The acquisition is the seventh by the James Grant Group since its creation in August 2009 and the first time it has taken on a PR company.
The group includes businesses that provide brand consultancy, digital, IP development and exploitation, talent management, live events, media and sports finance, accountancy and voiceover services.
Franklin Rae founder Jill Franklin will remain in her role and report to Chris Rawlings, group brand director, James Grant Group.
Franklin said: ‘For us, the synergies were obvious from the start – a passion for the business of media, a plan for international expansion and, more importantly, a cultural ethos that matches that of our own.
‘James Grant Group’s footprint in media, music and sports will enable us to further consolidate our position in those sectors, as well as to build our presence in North America through its growing business there.’
Franklin Rae’s access to emerging markets in areas such as Asia and Africa, combined with the agency’s clients in the digital and technology sectors within media, are understood to have attracted the James Grant Group board.
Rawlings said: ‘Our aim is to continue to develop as a world class one-stop-shop, providing services to media, sports and entertainment clients globally. Franklin Rae’s position as a highly trusted PR adviser to some of the world’s most ambitious media and entertainment companies makes it a perfect fit in our growing portfolio.’
The combined headcount of the group is now 150 people across offices in London, Washington DC and Manchester.
