A London-listed marketing group, supported by Rupert Murdoch and Lord Ashcroft, has initiated a £50 million bid to acquire a division of M&C Saatchi. Brave Bison, managed by brothers Oli and Theo Green, has proposed a cash-and-stock deal to purchase M&C Performance, known for its expertise in media planning and buying across digital platforms. The division’s clientele includes major companies like Amazon and Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
Reports suggest that M&C Saatchi has received the offer from Brave Bison, but the response remains uncertain. If the deal moves forward, it would mark another acquisition for Brave Bison, which has already purchased five other businesses this year. Notable acquisitions include MiniMBA, an e-learning and training firm catering to marketing and technology professionals, and Engage, a sports marketing specialist.
Brave Bison’s shares have nearly doubled this year, contrasting with M&C Saatchi’s 22% stock decrease. The latter currently holds a market capitalization of around £160 million, significantly lower than a previous offer that valued the company at over £300 million including debts. News Corporation, led by Rupert Murdoch, recently secured a stake in Brave Bison through their influencer marketing divisions.
The Green brothers assumed control of Brave Bison in 2020, implementing strategic realignments that have improved the company’s performance. Last year, Brave Bison acquired SocialChain, the social media and influencer agency owned by podcaster and entrepreneur Steven Bartlett. As of the latest stock market closing, Brave Bison’s market capitalization stands at approximately £82 million.
Both Brave Bison and M&C Saatchi have refrained from commenting on the proposed deal.
SOURCE