Dentsu has announced a further simplification of its go-to-market structure in Australia and New Zealand, reshaping its Customer Experience Management practice.
The move will see Merkle’s experience, commerce, data and technology capabilities integrated into dentsu.
The Merkle brand will continue to be used for global and regional clients operating in ANZ where needed, but all local businesses will now be serviced by Dentsu.
Salesforce business to be sold
As part of the changes, Dentsu has signed an agreement to sell its Salesforce implementation business to Enduring Ventures, a long-term holding company based in the United States.
The acquisition will serve as a cornerstone of Enduring Ventures’ broader technology strategy. Following completion, Dentsu will partner with Enduring Ventures to ensure continuity for clients.
The business will continue to be led by its management team.
Rob Harvey on the simplification push
Rob Harvey, Chief Executive Officer of dentsu Australia and New Zealand, said the changes mark the next step in reducing complexity and building the business around client needs.
Rob Harvey: “Clients are telling us they want a clearer, more direct way to work with us.”
“These changes are about responding to that by sharpening our focus on what we do best and making it easier for clients to access the full strength of dentsu.”
Harvey said the Merkle move follows dentsu’s recent announcement that it would bring its media brands together under one united media proposition.
“Last week we announced our move to bring our media brands together under one united media proposition.
“Today’s changes are the next step in our strategy to build a more connected dentsu across ANZ by integrating experience, commerce, data and technology capabilities into our core business and continuing to invest in what our clients value most.”
Merkle Salesforce team thanked
Harvey thanked the Merkle Salesforce team for its contribution to Dentsu; “They have built strong client relationships and a business that is well-positioned for its next chapter.
“I’m pleased the business will continue to be led locally by Paul Whittaker and Gareth Reason. They have been outstanding partners and leaders for our Merkle business in ANZ.”
“I wish them and the team every success,” Harvey concluded.
Salesforce remains a key global partner for Dentsu and Merkle, with the change affecting only Australia and New Zealand.
The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.
Top image: Rob Harvey