Cambrient, Stonewall+ and Brandsh are to merge to form digital agency, Native.
The combined skill set of these companies is said to bring together digital marketing strategy, creative conceptualisation and design, Web and mobile technology, online and mobile media, social media and online content development, as well as research and analytics.
Angus Robinson, executive creative director of Native, formerly of Brandsh, says this is because there is a growing market for digital strategies to be available under one roof.
"The strategic integration of our pooled intellectual capital will see a new kind of agency emerge - one focused on digital-through-the-line," says Jason Xenopoulos, the newly appointed CEO. According to Xenopoulos, this is to be "the continent's largest and first truly full-service digital agency".
According to a statement, Native will also develop a suite of interactive tools to allow marketers to track campaigns across multiple platforms.
Robinson says each of the companies brings a unique set of skills to the table. Stonewall+ deals with online design work and, according to Robinson, “is strong on the creative side”. It has previously done work for the likes of General Motors, Nestl'e and Vodacom.
“Cambrient deals with Web content, including technology and building licensable software products that have the ability to develop large Web platforms,” he adds. “Moneyweb, DStv, Pick n Pay and South African Tourism have been built using its software products.”
Brandsh is a young company dedicated to social media and the mobile advertising industry, having serviced companies like Standard Bank and Seacom. “Brandsh are strong on the social media front,” says Robinson.
There will be no lay-offs in the merger. “All staff will be kept,” notes Robinson. “In fact, we look to expand.”
Robinson says this comes with the growing need for consolidation of all digital elements like communications, mobile and social networking.
Native is set to take off in early October.
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