In a move set to bolster its stakeholder engagement and communications offering, global advisory firm Morrow Sodali has acquired Designate, an Australian integrated brand communications agency. This acquisition will allow Morrow Sodali to advise clients across all stages of their brand lifecycle, a significant enhancement to their current service portfolio.

Designate brings to the table over three decades of experience advising corporate and government clients. Their expertise spans investor, sustainability, and employee communications, as well as digital experiences, making them a valuable addition to Morrow Sodali's global strategy.

Christian Sealey, CEO International at Morrow Sodali, praised Designate's track record in enhancing clients' brand value and crafting effective engagement strategies. He said, 'Designate has a long and distinguished track record of enhancing clients' brand value and crafting strategies that effectively engage stakeholder groups across various mediums and channels. Their expertise, particularly in the areas of investor and sustainability communications, aligns seamlessly with Morrow Sodali's global strategy to create a unique, highly differentiated, full-service proposition for our clients.'

Ben Fletcher, Managing Director of Designate, expressed excitement about the acquisition, particularly given the potential for enhanced collaboration. 'We are incredibly excited to join Morrow Sodali, particularly at a time when such a diverse and complementary group of subject matter experts is coming together under one umbrella,' Fletcher said.

Roger Lindeback, Director, Brand & Strategy at Designate, echoed Fletcher's sentiments, noting that the acquisition presents 'a natural fit' for Designate and opens up 'greater opportunities' for the business and its team members.

Ransom Langford, Partner at TPG, highlighted the strategic importance of the Australian market for Morrow Sodali. 'Australia is an important marketplace for Morrow Sodali, and we are pleased to support further growth in the region with the acquisition of Designate,' Langford said.

The terms of the deal have not been disclosed. This acquisition follows Morrow Sodali's recent purchase of Domestique, another specialist team, indicating a clear growth strategy for the firm.