MUMBAI: Publicis Groupe has acquired the France-based digital marketing and social networks pure player, Monkees.

With close to 15 years of experience and an impressive client roster, Monkees has made a name for itself in France with a body of unique expertise, focusing particularly on retail and e-publishing.

The agency will be integrated into the Publicis Activ to accelerate the digital growth of its East- West France regional agencies. This acquisition will allow the agency to continue to provide full support to its clients throughout their own digital transformations. Monkees currently employs 25 people and works with clients in mass retailing and specialized distribution, auto manufacturing, health and sport.

The digital teams from Publicis Activ and Monkees will be combined to form a unit representing over 30 per cent of the agency's global revenue. They will operate under the Monkees brand, headed by Frédéric Caussin and Manuel Godeux, the two founding managers of Monkees.

Publicis France VO Nicolas Zunz said, "Monkees is an agency we have had our eye on for some time, and for which we have great respect. They have developed some innovative and cutting-edge skills, which will obviously be helpful in the development of our agencies in the west and east of France. It will also add to our national arsenal of digital expertise. We are very happy to welcome them on board."

Publicis Activ executive president Franck Barennes added, "This digital deployment is proof of the agency's clear and resolute aim: to work alongside our clients, performing our role of consultant to the fullest by delivering the answers and the innovative services they need."