Agency Futures Act as Transaction Advisors to BAM in Strategic Acquisition by LLYC

Agency Futures, a global M&A consultancy headquartered in London, UK, have announced today the closure of a transaction in which LLYC - a global communications, digital marketing, and public affairs firm - has acquired BAM, a leading US public relations and marketing agency serving venture-backed and established technology companies. The acquisition accelerates LLYC’s incessant growth strategy and magnifies its size in the US.

Agency Futures were appointed by BAM in early 2022 to identify a suitable acquirer for the agency. The firm used its global network of agency buyers to develop an acquirer shortlist, and quickly focused on LLYC as the perfect buyer. Doug Baxter, managing partner at Agency Futures commented “We are firm believers in empathetic M&A. Creating successful unions goes beyond numbers on a spreadsheet. It takes a shared vision, values, culture, and the assured outcome that both agencies will benefit as a result”.

“The acquisition of BAM supports our international growth strategy and allows LLYC to rapidly scale in the US and broaden our service proposition,” said Alejandro Romero, partner and global CEO of LLYC. “BAM’s entrepreneurial spirit, expertise, and deep relationships with technology start-ups and the venture capital community, set them apart from other agencies in the space. We’re thrilled to welcome the BAM team to the LLYC community.”

Based in San Diego, California, BAM runs integrated communications programs for venture backed technology companies. The agency also offers human resources, DEI, and talent consulting as part of its Human Comms offering to support venture backed start-ups in building strong and inclusive cultures.

“After two years of meticulous effort and more than 65 meetings with potential partners, we finally found our partner, LLYC. The agency is truly unmatched in our industry and holds the same values as us,” said Rebecca Bamberger, CEO of BAM. “Joining LLYC is a natural next step in the evolution of BAM and a hugely exciting opportunity for our team. LLYC’ s global reach, digital capabilities, and depth of expertise will provide BAM clients, and by extension the venture capital ecosystem, with even more resources.” 

The deal strengthens LLYC’s capabilities and cements its position as a leading global communications, digital marketing and public affairs consultancy. The initial valuation of BAM is EUR 12.2 M (13.2 M$) and LLYC is acquiring an initial 80 percent stake in the company. The initial price may be adjusted on the basis of the performance from 2022 to 2025. The total price is to be paid in cash. As part of the LLYC Group, BAM will continue to operate under its own brand, while creating value-added synergies with the company’s entire international network. Bamberger will continue to hold a stake in the company and lead BAM’s operations.