Aussie retail activation agency, XPO Brands has announced today it will be forging a new international partnership with global commerce marketing agency, The Mars Agency.
This collaboration gives XPO the financial backing and operational support to continue to grow and deliver best-in-class shopper and experiential marketing across the region.
It will also grant XPO access to The Mars Agency’s industry-leading technology and data platform, Marilyn, to enhance solutions for XPO’s clients in Australia and New Zealand.
“I’m thrilled to join forces with a company that matches our own values, passionately innovating and helping their clients succeed,” said XPO Brands founder and managing director, Sally Tobin.
“I’m excited to bring new technologies and extended commerce services to Australia and New Zealand thanks to the support of The Mars Agency.”
Mars Global CEO, Rob Rivenburgh was equally enthusiastic about the new partnership.
“We’re thrilled to welcome XPO Brands to the Mars family and grow our footprint. With their strong leadership and innovative spirit, and now our support, their ambitions can truly be realised,” he said.
XPO Brands will keep its name, clients and, most importantly, talent and leadership.
Both Sally Tobin and Gary Head will continue as managing director and executive creative director, respectively.
The Mars Agency CEO of International Markets, Derren Keen will oversee the expansion.
XPO Brands was founded in 2013 and has earned its reputation as a creative leader in shopper and experiential marketing.
They were recently named B&T’s Shopper Agency of the Year and won five top awards at Shop! Association’s Marketing at Retail Awards, overall Best Design & Innovation and overall Best Display.
They have also brought first-of-their-kind innovations to the market — including technology platforms MateRiX and SampleLab — that continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in connecting brands with shoppers.
Meanwhile, The Mars Agency brings rich experience in commerce marketing with scale and presence around the world.
The company’s intelligent, results-driven marketing technology platform and strong capabilities in media and ecommerce enhance and complement XPO’s stake in the local market.
