Independents further expands its reach with the acquisition of Bureau B… | kbnmart

The Independents Group continues to expand its expertise in brand communications across the luxury, fashion, beauty and lifestyle sectors. The group, which describes itself as the “world’s leading group” in these sectors, has announced the acquisition of Dubai-based agency Piero Beatriz.

Founded in 2021 by Kevin Alderweireldt and John S. Malloy, Bureau Béatrice specializes in digital and multimedia creativity. Since its inception, it has collaborated with many global names such as Tiffany & Co., Bulgari, Prada, Richard Mille, Swarovski, MAC Cosmetics, and L’Oréal.

The Independents is a global communications group comprising Atelier Athem, Atelier Lum, Bureau Betak & Bureau Future, CTZAR, Inca Productions, Karla Otto, K2, Kennedy, Lefty, Prodject, Sunshine and The Qode. The acquisition of Bureau Béatrice gives the group a direct presence in 12 countries, strengthening its position in the Middle East. In a statement, Isabelle Chauvet, CEO of The Independents, said: “The Middle East is a critical growth market for the luxury and lifestyle sectors, where brands need to engage with the right message and be guided by local experts. Bureau Béatrice’s creativity and innovative approach to transforming stories into unforgettable experiences through a technological approach will deepen our offering in the region, while providing The Independents with a new expertise that we can share globally.”

The value of the acquisition was not disclosed. The Independents currently has offices in Milan, Paris, London, Munich, New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, Dubai, Riyadh and Jeddah. In 2023, the group raised $400 million in a funding round with FL Entertainment (Banijay) and TowerBrook Capital Partners. The stated goal was to double the size of the group by 2025, primarily through acquisitions. The Independents was then forecasting revenues of $450 million in 2023.