WestBridge backed Koto makes first acquisition as it accelerates global growth
The acquisition of Stereo Creative marks a significant step in Koto’s strategy to continue building a global agency group to meet a growing demand from leading international brands for integrated, creatively led, services.
Stereo brings a strong portfolio of long-standing client relationships across sport, entertainment, and technology, with clients that include Nike, Arsenal, FIFA, Converse, the San Francisco 49ers, the PWHL, EA Sports, Twitch, Ripple and Bumble.
Founded in 2015, Koto has grown consistently, establishing a global reputation for brand transformation and creative excellence. Its recent work includes reimagining Amazon’s global brand, shaping the brand identity for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and partnering with Meta to create Instagram’s new wordmark. Koto is also Microsoft’s branding agency of record.
The acquisition takes the combined Koto Group to 230 people across eight studios in London, Berlin, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Portland, Dubai and Sydney.
James Greenfield, CEO at Koto, said:
“This is an important milestone for Koto and a strong first acquisition for the business since WestBridge’s investment last year. Stereo brings an outstanding client portfolio, complementary capabilities, and further builds on Koto’s well established international scale and US presence.”
Ed Minton, director at WestBridge, said:
“The acquisition is an important part of Koto’s strategy to continue building a scaled global creative group through a combination of organic growth and carefully selected acquisitions. We believe that there is a significant opportunity to bring together high-quality, values-aligned creative businesses and give them the platform and international reach to serve a growing global market.
“We’re delighted to welcome the Stereo team and look forward to supporting the Koto team as they continue to build a global studio network.”