SI Partners advises Hirschen Group on partnership with WPP’s J. Walter Thompson

The largest marcoms deal in Germany this year.

WPP has agreed, subject to regulatory approval, to acquire a significant minority stake in Hirschen Group, Germany’s fifth largest independent agency group. SI Partners acted as corporate finance advisors to the Hirschen shareholders on the minority stake sale. Following the investment, Hirschen Group will partner with WPP’s wholly owned agency, J. Walter Thompson Company.

Hirschen employs over 500 people in nine offices and provides integrated campaign services including advertising, public relations, public affairs, consulting and strategy. The company was founded in 1995 by Bernd Heusinger and Marcel Loko. Martin Blach joined as CEO in 2005.

The existing team will continue to manage Hirschen Group, which will maintain its independent positioning, whilst being able to enjoy the benefits of being part of the J. Walter Thompson and WPP networks.

Read the full story here.

SI Partners also recently advised 18 Feet & Rising on Investment from Creston plc, read more about the transaction here.