Acquisition of ClearStory by Core Optimisation boosts worldwide growth momentum
In a strategic move to accelerate its global expansion and provide a comprehensive suite of digital marketing and PR services, Irish digital marketing agency Core Optimisation has announced the acquisition of international PR agency ClearStory International.
Founded in 2015 by Caroline Dunlea and David Brett, Core Optimisation offers digital marketing services including SEO, PPC, paid social, data analytics, and digital strategic consultancy. The acquisition of ClearStory International, established in 2017 by James McCann, will integrate the PR expertise of the London-based agency, specialising in reputation building for emerging and scaling brands.
The €500,000 investment is part of Core Optimisation's broader strategy to expand its operations into North America and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aiming to establish a stronger presence in these strategically important regions. The merger positions Core Optimisation as a truly integrated digital marketing and PR consultancy, able to provide comprehensive marketing and communication services.
ClearStory International's client portfolio includes notable names such as Techstars, Asian Development Bank, Dynasafe, CoinDesk, and Riskline, and the integration of this client base and sector expertise will diversify and strengthen Core Optimisation’s market reach. The combined entity aspires to build a world-renowned, Irish-owned agency.
James McCann, CEO of ClearStory International, is excited to bring their deep expertise in international storytelling and reputation building to Core Optimisation. He stated, "We are thrilled to join forces with Core Optimisation, a leading digital marketing agency. This acquisition will allow us to offer our clients a fully integrated digital marketing and PR service, enabling us to truly move the needle."
Caroline Dunlea, co-founder of Core Optimisation, expressed her confidence in the acquisition, stating, "This acquisition strengthens our global capabilities and enables us to offer a fully integrated digital marketing and PR service. We are excited to bring ClearStory's expertise in navigating complex media markets to our clients."
The combined entity's campaigns aim to deliver integrated, insight-driven campaigns that drive meaningful growth. With over 200 clients across 25 countries and more than 70 clients spanning a wide range of industries, the agency is well-positioned to meet evolving client demands and tap into new markets more effectively.
In summary, Core Optimisation's acquisition of ClearStory International supercharges its international growth ambitions and offers a fully integrated suite of digital marketing and PR services, enhancing its competitiveness and profile in the global marketplace.
The acquisition of ClearStory International, a PR agency specializing in technology and business, forms part of Core Optimisation's broader strategy to expand its operations into finance and technology-focused regions such as North America and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With ClearStory's clients, including tech giants like CoinDesk and Riskline, the integrated entity aims to provide a comprehensive suite of digital marketing, PR, and technology-driven services, positioning itself as a global leader in the industry.