Global performance marketing agency to open Manchester office

James Townsend, Global Managing Director of ForwardPMX (pictured top), said: “It’s been an exciting time following the merger of Forward3D and PMX earlier in the month, and we’re excited to announce the latest development for the business.

“The combined experience of both agencies has allowed us to develop an unrivalled offering for brands looking to increase their presence in the north of England and we’re looking forward to building a world-class team in Manchester.

“The new location will benefit our existing clients as well as offering additional value for new partnerships. It will allow brands to compete globally with a performance-focused service that can help brands reach customers in any language, market or platform worldwide.”

ForwardPMX is owned by Stagwell Group – the holding group founded by Mark Penn, former advisor to President Clinton, Presidential nominee Hilary Clinton, former Prime Minister Tony Blair and author of New York Times and Wall Street Journal best seller, Microtrends.

Penn launched Stagwell in 2015 with $250m in funding including investment from Microsoft Chief Executive Steve Ballmer.

It raised a further $260m from private equity firm AlpInvest last year and was on track last year to make $400m in revenue. It has been on an aggressive acquisition trail and has made over 17 investments in marcomms, research and healthcare agencies.