NEW YORK: Empower Media and Ocean Media, two of the nation’s leading independent media agencies, have merged to form Empower Ocean Media Group, now the second-largest full-funnel independent media agency group in the United States.
The newly formed entity will manage $1.5 billion in combined media billings, according to a statement.
The merger brings together Empower’s 40 years of strategic innovation and Ocean Media’s 29 years of performance-driven results. With offices in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, the group is powered by 400 professionals and aims to redefine the independent media landscape through centralized technology, media negotiations and procurement.
Empower Ocean Media Group will serve a high-profile client roster including PetSmart, Sprouts Farmers Market, Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Whataburger, JD Sports, BetMGM, CarGurus, Rakuten, Realtor.com and Mint Mobile. While both agencies will maintain their distinct operations, they will share resources and leverage scale to deliver enhanced client outcomes.
Ashlee Clarke, CEO of Empower Media, will continue in her role and also serve as Co-Chairwoman of the new group. Jay Langan remains CEO of Ocean Media, while Chris Clarke will serve as Executive Chairman of Empower Ocean Media Group.
“This marks an extraordinary new chapter,” said Ashlee Clarke. “By combining our talent, technology and scale, we’re creating a smarter, more agile partner that delivers fearless growth for our clients.”
Jay Langan added, “This alliance is about synergy and client success. We’re doubling down on advanced data insights and performance-driven strategies to redefine what an independent agency can achieve.”
Empower Ocean Media Group positions itself as a bold alternative to traditional holding companies, emphasizing independence, innovation and measurable results.