Episode Details

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Would you consider a merger or acquisition as a growth strategy? What does it look like to acquire another agency? How can you ensure success for the buyer, seller, and existing clients? Today's featured guest demonstrates how this approach can be highly effective when executed thoughtfully. He started his agency after realizing he would never get the recognition he deserved while working for somebody else, which drove him to establish his own agency where he now thrives.

Recently, he expanded through the strategic acquisition of three agencies, focusing primarily on their client portfolios. His acquisition strategy emphasizes the importance of relationship continuity, specifically seeking arrangements where previous owners remain involved during the transition period, allowing his team to gradually build trust with the inherited client base. Learn from his valuable insights on entrepreneurship and the strategic use of acquisitions for agency growth.

Luke Szkudlarek is a founding partner of What., a Zurich-based consultancy and growth hacking group focused on helping SMEs and startups with growth, digitalization, and product development. He'll share the pivotal moment that sparked his decision to pursue entrepreneurship after an encounter with his boss, highlighting the importance of ownership and recognition in the workplace.

In this episode, we'll discuss:

• Spotting trends that lead to agency success.

• The mind shift needed to break the glass ceiling on growth.

• Using agency acquisition as a growth strategy.

• Ensuring a smooth merger and acquisition for agency clients.

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Sponsors and Resources

E2M Solutions: Today's episode of the Smart Agency Masterclass is sponsored by E2M Solutions, a web design, and development agency that has provided white-label services for the past 10 years to agencies all over the world. Check out e2msolutions.com/smartagency and get 10% off for the first three months of service.

How a Dismissive Boss Sparked an Agency Journey

Luke's entrepreneurial journey began in Zurich with what seemed like a straightforward 'easy' role helping an agency acquire new clients. As he sharpened his skills he soon started working with giants like Nestle and Victoria Knox.

After closing a few lucrative deals, Luke approached his employer about receiving company shares as compensation for his valuable contributions.

His boss's dismissive response—offering a spa treatment instead of equity—became a key moment in his career. Rather than viewing this as a setback, he recognized it as a sign that it was time to venture out on his own. Confident in his ability to attract and maintain relationships with major clients, he started to plan his next move with a colleague. Six months later they were ready to start building their own business.

Spotting Trends as the Secret to Early Success

While many s