M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment Expands With DUNE | 23 Acquisition

M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment has recently made headlines with its acquisition of DUNE | 23, a burgeoning sport and entertainment agency based in the Middle East. This strategic move marks the establishment of the agency’s seventh global office, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its footprint in one of the world’s most dynamic regions for sports and entertainment.

Background of DUNE | 23

Founded in 2023 by Jamie Hosie and Lloyd McMillan, DUNE | 23 has quickly made a name for itself in the industry, working with prominent clients such as Emirates Dubai 7s, SailGP, and BRED by Hypebeast. The agency has carved out a niche for itself, offering a variety of marketing services that include communications, commercial strategy, social media management, public relations, influencer engagement, experiential marketing, community management, and media buying. This breadth of expertise has positioned DUNE | 23 as a key player in the local market, renowned for its innovative and impactful approach to brand engagement.

Leadership Transition at M+C Saatchi

The acquisition is particularly significant as it marks the first major initiative under the leadership of Robin Clarke, who was appointed Global CEO of M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment in October 2024. Clarke’s vision includes a blend of global insights and local expertise, a sentiment echoed in the strategic rationale behind the acquisition. He sees the partnership as a unique opportunity to harness the strengths of both agencies to deliver unparalleled value to their clients.

Strengthening Presence in the Middle East

The Middle East has gained recognition as a rapidly growing hub for sports and entertainment. By acquiring DUNE | 23, M+C Saatchi is effectively positioning itself to tap into this booming market, which is driven by increasing demand for innovative marketing solutions. Clarke noted that the combination of M+C Saatchi’s global legacy with DUNE | 23’s local fame could lead to a formidable powerhouse in the region.

An Array of Recognitions

M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment boasts a distinguished portfolio that includes impactful campaigns for notable brands like Barclays, LEGO, and UEFA. The agency’s reputation for excellence is backed by numerous accolades, such as the Agency of the Year at the UK Sponsorship Awards. On the other hand, DUNE | 23 has also earned its stripes, recently ranked among the top three in the Best Agency category at the 2024 Middle East Sports Industry Awards. This shared commitment to excellence positions both entities for mutual growth and success.

Future Aspirations

In their own statements about the acquisition, both founders of DUNE | 23 expressed excitement about the potential ahead. Lloyd McMillan highlighted the synergy created by combining local insights with M+C Saatchi’s global scale, emphasizing the broader opportunities this merger unlocks. Jamie Hosie echoed this sentiment, stating their eagerness for the next phase of their journey, which they believe will greatly benefit their team, existing clients, and the industry as a whole.

Regional Growth Trajectory

Scott Feasey, CEO of M+C Saatchi Middle East, articulated the significance of this acquisition as a pivotal move to advance the agency’s growth trajectory in the region. He mentioned that the integration of DUNE | 23’s specialist expertise and proven track record enhances their leadership position in a market characterized by the convergence of brand and culture. As the landscape of sports and entertainment continues to evolve, this acquisition positions M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment as a leader, adept at creating lasting impacts driven by passion and fan engagement.

Conclusion

The acquisition of DUNE | 23 by M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment is a clear indication of the shifting dynamics in the global sports and entertainment industry. By combining local expertise with global capabilities, M+C Saatchi is poised to unlock a wealth of opportunities in a region that is rapidly becoming a central hub for sport and entertainment, further enhancing its reputation as a leader in the industry.