• by Ray Schultz , August 3, 2021

Hearst Magazines’ iCrossing has acquired Mediablaze, a UK-based digital and content marketing agency, in which it has had a minority investment since 2016. Terms were not disclosed.  

The deal will combine Mediablaze’s digital experience capability with iCrossing’s digital offerings, global reach and access to Hearst’s consumer insights. 

Together, the agencies will help clients with customer experience, digital transformation, performance media and content-marketing campaigns.  

“With the digital acceleration brands have seen over the past year, there is a growing demand for complete marketing solutions that can offer engaging and impactful digital experiences and this investment positions us to deliver industry-leading solutions for our clients,” states Heart Magazines President Debi Chirichella. 

Mediablaze was founded in 2010 as a content-marketing agency but has since evolved into a digital experience shop. Its website already boasts of the Hearst connection.  

iCrossing UK was founded in 1997. The Mediablaze acquisition is “an investment in our team and represents a commitment to grow our organization and position us for continued success as our clients’ needs continue to evolve,” said Jamie Clifford, managing director, iCrossing UK. 

Hearst Magazines is publisher of 25 brands in the U.S., including Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Men's Health and Car and Driver, reaching 165 million readers and site visitors per month.  

In addition, Hearst Magazines operates 200 websites worldwide and owns 360 businesses, including cable TV networks and digital services businesses, such as iCrossing and KUBRA.