London/Düsseldorf, 21 February 2024 – Cognito announces the majority acquisition of its German operation [“Cognito DACH”], based in Dusseldorf. Cognito previously acquired a minority stake in the business in January 2023.
The acquisition accelerates Cognito’s planned growth strategy; Dusseldorf is strategically placed in the Rhine-Ruhr region, the second largest urban area in Europe, providing access to Europe’s largest and most populous economy.
The German operation will benefit from the balance sheet strength, international network and expertise of the wider Cognito Group.
Richard Neve, co-founder of Cognito’s Dutch operation, is appointed interim managing director of the Dusseldorf office. Richard will lead the search for a permanent managing director.
CEO of Cognito Media Tom Coombes: “Germany is a key strategic market for Cognito. This acquisition gives our clients access to 90 million German speakers and a critical Western European financial market. It accelerates our planned strategy to build centres of excellence in the world’s most important financial markets.”
The consideration paid for the acquisition is not disclosed.
Cognito Media
Cognito is an independent global communications agency driving the conversations that matter for our clients in financial markets, technology and the climate transition. We champion them as they lead the way to sustainable development and a more connected world.
Our team of consultants around the world bring together 20 languages from 15 countries, with big agency and in-house expertise working across corporate communications, PR, digital marketing and social. We operate offices in key financial markets - London, Amsterdam, New York, Dusseldorf, Singapore, Hong Kong and Sydney - infusing local knowledge and culture in our seven offices with multi-national resources, the same standards of excellence and a truly global perspective.
Cognito DACH
Düsseldorf based Cognito DACH was called Westend Medien until January 2023 when Cognito acquired a stake in the agency that was founded by Dr. Michael Siemer. Regretfully Michael passed away unexpectedly in March 2023.