• by Larissa Faw , January 6, 2016

Dentsu Aegis Network is acquiring full-service shop Grip Limited. Founded in 2002, the Toronto-based agency specializes in creative, digital, and branded content. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Under the deal, Grip will maintain its name and branding, and operate as a specialist brand within Dentsu Aegis Network Canada.

The agency will continue to be managed by the senior leadership team of the founding partners, Bob Shanks, Managing Partner, and Creative Partners, David Crichton, David Chiavegato, Rich Pryce Jones, Randy Stein, and Scott Dube.

This acquisition helps Dentsu continue its expansion of its digital offerings in North America. “Grip is a fantastic addition to our network in Canada in terms of expertise and capabilities, with a strong culture and vision that complements our current roster of agencies and talent,” said Annette Warring, CEO of Dentsu Aegis Network Canada.

Meanwhile Grip will now have the resources to expand beyond its 150-employee footprint. “What attracted us to Dentsu Aegis Network was the ability to scale our capabilities across a broader network in order to expand and enhance our offering to existing clients, and attract new prospects both here in Canada and globally,” stated Shanks.

M&A advisory firm R&D Venture Partners served as the financial advisor to Grip.