Havas is back on the acquisition path, snapping up Melbourne-based independent media agency and creative production company, Hotglue. The agency will be merged with Havas Media Melbourne, forming a larger team with enhanced expertise across digital, commerce, media, and activation functions.

The newly merged Havas Media Melbourne team will be led by Hotglue founders Nick Smith, Lewis Hearn, and Matt Hearn, who will head up a combined team of more than 65 professionals, taking Havas' presence in Melbourne to over 120 staff across media, creative, PR, health, and digital project management.

Hotglue, founded in 2010, has gained recognition for its integrated social, digital, media, and content services. Its client portfolio includes L’Oréal, Bulla Dairy, Dulux, Transurban, Sorbent, Thirsty Camel, ISPT, Starward Whisky, IVECO, Walkinshaw, Tempur, and La Trobe Financial.

"We are thrilled to welcome the Hotglue team to our Havas family. Hotglue is a forward-thinking business that perfectly aligns with Havas’ global Converged strategy, sharing our deep focus on clients’ ever-increasing needs for cross-functional, fully integrated communications solutions driven by standout creativity and the best technology. The momentum they've created through their integrated approach to digital, media and content services is remarkable, and we are excited to see how their addition will support our continued, mutual growth," said Chairman and CEO, Havas, Yannick Bolloré.

Co-founder of Hotglue, Nick Smith, said: "When Havas knocked on our door, and we got to know Virginia’s future vision, Havas's sense of purpose, and their strategy for the future, it became abundantly clear that this was the next logical step for Hotglue and our team of over 55 dedicated staff. We're thrilled to bring our fantastic culture, social, media, and production capabilities and incredibly skilled workforce into the Havas network. This move not only adds support to existing clients but further establishes Havas as a formidable presence in the Melbourne market."

CEO of Havas Media Network AUNZ, Virginia Hyland, said: "Integrating Hotglue into Havas Media Melbourne will enhance our scale and ability to offer comprehensive solutions across the consumer decision making journey for our clients. This acquisition supports our progressive Havas Converged strategy and operating system."

Group CEO of Havas Creative Network AUNZ and Global Chair of Havas PR Network, James Wright, said: "As we look to strategically scale in Melbourne it’s important we add greater talents and capability into our media agency business. With the expertise and brilliance of Nick, Lewis, Matt and their team we will have a significant foundation to further attract exciting new clients and talent to the Havas Group."

Havas, founded in 1835 in Paris, is one of the world’s largest global communications networks, with more than 23,000 people in over 100 markets.