Edelman acquires Dubai agency DABO & CO

Communications marketing firm Edelman has announced its plans to acquire independent communications agency DABO & CO.Edelman’s United Arab Emirates operations seeks to combine with those of DABO & CO to be a competitor in Middle East’s communications industry.Together, the merger aims to increase integrated communications marketing and business solutions. The new operation will encompass expertise from corporate to marketing to digital.The agency will offer creative, planning, research and event management capabilities across the region.Edelman UAE opened its first office in Abu Dhabi in 2008 and according to the agency, is now the fastest growing operation in Edelman’s global network.Co-founded by Camilla and Lucy d’Abo (pictured), the Dubai-based agency has more than 60 staff. Over the past ten years, DABO & CO has grown to become a full-scale,  creative communications and experiential marketing business.Matthew Harrington (pictured extreme right), global chief operating officer, Edelman, said: “As the industry develops in the Middle East, this partnership will position us to create engaging and innovative communications programs that support our clients’ needs.”Robert Holdheim (pictured extreme left), CEO - South Asia, Middle East & Africa, Edelman, said: “Edelman’s leading position as a full service agency complements DABO & CO’s creativity, excellent reputation in consumer communications and strength in events and experiential marketing."“We are excited to partner with Edelman as we believe this acquisition will unite two of the leading players in the market to create a regional powerhouse,” Camilla d’Abo (pictured second left), managing partner, DABO & CO, said."Not only will our existing clients benefit greatly from this, it also constitutes a compelling proposition to brands seeking a new integrated approach in the region," d'Abo added.