In the ever-evolving landscape of public relations and communication, The Lede Company, headquartered in New York and renowned for its expertise in brand communication consulting and celebrity management, made a significant move. On June 23, The Lede Company announced its acquisition of OBCM, a respected Parisian public relations and press consulting agency.
This strategic acquisition represents a crucial step forward in The Lede Company’s international expansion strategy. Founded in 2018 by co-founders Amanda Silverman, Christine Su, Meredith O’Sullivan, and Sarah Rothman, The Lede Company provides communication and partnership strategy services to a star-studded lineup of celebrities, including Cara Delevingne, Charlize Theron, Lady Gaga, Mary J. Blige, Pharrell Williams, Penelope Cruz, Reese Witherspoon, and Rihanna. The firm also boasts an impressive portfolio of esteemed brands, such as Thom Browne, Altuzarra, Kenzo, Pangaia, and Savage x Fenty. In 2022, it took a major step by establishing an office in London.
With the acquisition of OBCM, founded in 2013 by Olivier Bourgis, The Lede Company is poised to strengthen its European presence significantly. Christine Su remarked, «Olivier and the highly skilled team at OBCM have crafted an agency of impeccable repute through their strategic vision and unwavering dedication. They have earned respect not only in Paris but across the entire European landscape, making them the ideal partner for our expansion. We are committed to preserving OBCM’s illustrious legacy while uniting our talented teams under the Lede umbrella as we expand our global reach and influence.»
While the financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed, it is clear that OBCM, known for its collaborations with esteemed clients such as Sandro, Pandora, Free People, and Wolford, will be rebranded as «Lede Paris.» Olivier Bourgis will continue to lead the Paris office while retaining a minority stake in the company. Additionally, Ritual Projects, a subsidiary acquired by OBCM in 2022, will continue to operate under its existing identity.
Olivier Bourgis shared his insights, stating, «Initially, I contemplated the establishment of a New York office in response to the growing demand from clients for a global presence. However, partnering with an American firm seemed to be a more fitting and strategic approach. I was already acquainted with Christine and Sarah through prior collaborations. I take immense pride in this opportunity to join forces with an agency as formidable as Lede. From its inception, Lede has been at the forefront of pioneering innovative approaches to connect brands and talents while building an outstanding reputation. Moreover, I believe that Lede’s founders share our commitment to tailor-made strategies that align seamlessly with our clients’ objectives. I am excited for OBCM’s clients and staff to gain access to international expertise and resources. With Lede, we will continue to push boundaries and set new standards.»
The French entity, now operating as «Lede Paris,» is expected to maintain its current market positioning while integrating solutions and expertise introduced by The Lede Company, with a special focus on enhancing social impact initiatives.
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