Ongoing Demand for Digital Competency Remains Key Driver for Advertising Agencies & Media Companies

NEW YORK (August 13, 2010) – Gridley & Company LLC (Gridley & Co.), a New York-based boutique investment bank that specializes in the Information Services industry, today announced that it served as the exclusive financial advisor to Digitaria Interactive Inc. in its successful transaction with WPP’s wholly-owned operating company, JWT. San Diego-based Digitaria is an award-winning digital agency specializing in transferring brands to the Web, applications, devices, appliances, multimedia and other digital media platforms.

As previously announced by the two companies, Digitaria will remain headquartered in San Diego and will function as a unit of JWT North America. The 100-person shop will utilize its expertise in digital marketing strategies, as well as its proprietary “Digital Brand Migration” approach, to help service both agencies’ clients and strengthen the digital division of JWT. According to JWT, the investment continues its strategy of developing its networks in fast growing markets and sectors and strengthening its capabilities in digital media.

“There has been a flurry of deal activity in the interactive ad agency space this year, including the sale of Innovation Interactive to Dentsu and iCrossing to Hearst. Buyers are continuing to see these deals as strategic acquisitions that enhance their positioning in the digital advertising market,” said Linda Gridley, President and CEO, Gridley & Co. “These businesses are very hot commodities right now, and with only a limited number of specialized independent digital agencies left in the market, buyers need to pounce now before the well runs dry.”

Gridley & Co. has proprietary insights on the most interesting opportunities in online and digital marketing today, and regularly meets with senior leaders and investors in the industry to share perspectives and exchange ideas. For more information or to arrange a meeting with the Gridley team to discuss opportunities, please call Linda Gridley at 212-400-9710.

Please click on the following link to view the Deal Announcement: http://www.digitaria.com/news/press-releases/award-winning-agency-digitaria-acquired-jwt-north-america .