MediaSense, a U.K.-based media advisory firm, has expanded its global reach with the acquisition of R3, another advisory firm that specializes in both creative and media consulting. While the financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, this acquisition is part of a broader expansion strategy for MediaSense.
The firm has been growing rapidly, acquiring PwC’s U.K. marketing and media division earlier this year, and has the backing of Apiary Capital, which invested in the company in 2021 to help fuel its expansion.
R3’s strong presence in both the U.S. and Asia significantly strengthens MediaSense’s position in these key regions. The acquisition enables MediaSense to broaden its service offerings, moving beyond just media operations into full-scale marketing services.
It also provides the firm with greater access to the rapidly growing Asian market and strengthens its capabilities in creative, content, and production, which are essential for staying competitive in the consulting space.
MediaSense Expands Global Presence and Service Offerings with R3 Acquisition Amid Marketing Shift
This merger will also increase MediaSense’s employee base by 30%, expanding its workforce to over 230 people. The acquisition brings R3’s co-founders, Greg Paull and Shufen Goh, into MediaSense’s leadership team.
Their expertise in the media and marketing sectors will enhance the firm’s ability to deliver a more comprehensive suite of services to clients, including media strategy, content creation, and technological solutions.
The timing of this acquisition is particularly significant as marketing is undergoing substantial shifts. With the decline of digital tracking signals and the rise of the creator economy, businesses are struggling to adapt and effectively measure the performance of their marketing strategies. As a result, companies are increasingly turning to specialized advisory firms to help manage their relationships with agencies, measure ROI, and keep up with these rapid changes.
Experts note that businesses today require more sophisticated and specialized media expertise to achieve high-performing strategies that align with their objectives. According to Phil Gripton from Waypoint, firms that offer a comprehensive approach—incorporating elements like content production, data analytics, and transformation consulting—are in the best position for long-term success.
MediaSense’s acquisition of R3 ensures that the firm is well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of its clients in both mature and emerging markets.
