IZEA's Strategic Move: Acquires Hoozu to Strengthen Global Position and Enhance Its Influence in the APAC Region

IZEA Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ: IZEA), the pioneering force behind influencer marketing technology, data analytics, and services for esteemed brands and agencies worldwide, is thrilled to announce its latest strategic move – the acquisition of Hoozu, Australia's preeminent influencer marketing company, headquartered in Sydney. Hoozu boasts an impressive clientele including renowned brands such as Bunnings, Emma Sleep, Super Cheap Auto, and Ryobi. Additionally, Hoozu's talent management division, Huume, represents a diverse array of creators within the Australian market.

Since its inception in 2006, IZEA has been a trailblazer in the creator economy. CEO Ted Murphy revolutionised the influencer marketing landscape with the world's first influencer marketing platform, marking the genesis of this industry. Over the last 17 years, IZEA has evolved into a multinational public company, serving as the driving force behind groundbreaking influencer marketing programs for half of the Fortune 50 companies. Most recently, IZEA celebrated a milestone achievement, surpassing one million registered users on its influencer marketing platforms.

“Acquiring Hoozu represents a significant milestone for IZEA in the Asia-Pacific region and establishes a beachhead for us in Oceania,” said Murphy. “We have seen organic global growth in recent years through our efforts in the U.K., China, and South Korea, and our acquisition of Hoozu builds on that momentum.”

“We are excited to welcome the Hoozu team into the IZEA group of companies,” continued Murphy. “As a respected leader in its market, Hoozu will operate as a stand-alone, wholly-owned subsidiary of IZEA Worldwide. Going forward, we see the potential for continued inorganic growth with Hoozu serving as the principal company for additional acquisitions in the region.”

“This acquisition not only expands our geographic footprint, it adds new capabilities in other areas in the growing creator economy,” added Ryan Schram, President and Chief Operating Officer of IZEA. “In addition to Hoozu’s core influencer marketing managed services business, the company will continue to own and operate Huume, a talent agency focusing on Australian influencers and creators.”

“IZEA’s capital, technology, and global influencer marketing resources will support and strengthen Hoozu’s long-standing presence in the region, and we look forward to what lies ahead,” continued Schram.

With nearly a decade of experience in the industry, Hoozu has earned recognition for its exceptional brand credibility and equity throughout Australia. Co-founded by entrepreneur Nathan Ruff and professional football player Lote Tuqiri, Hoozu made significant strides in 2021 with the acquisition of The Remarkables Group. Market specialist Natalie Giddings, who was appointed CEO following the acquisition, will continue in her role and report to Schram.

“Joining an established global leader such as IZEA enables Hoozu to service its clients with leading technology, more extensive data, and best practices which will increase our campaign quality and performance,” said Giddings. “It’s wonderful to be involved with a company that has been leading the industry from the front globally for so long. This alliance signifies that change is coming to the market.”

Ruff, co-founder of Hoozu, said: “As the market matures, we expect to see a stage of consolidation of creator economy companies. We are excited to be a key part of IZEA’s global growth plans and help them expand both organically and inorganically in the region.”

IZEA has completed the full acquisition of Hoozu Holdings Limited and all its subsidiaries, with the transaction structured as a combination of cash and stock, including deferred payments tied to key performance indicators. Hoozu demonstrated growth from 2022 to 2023 (June fiscal year) and achieved profitability in both years. IZEA plans to allocate additional resources to fuel further growth, including the expansion of its sales team and overall capabilities.

If your company operates within the creator economy and is interested in partnership or acquisition opportunities, please visit izea.com/partners/acquisitions. For the latest news and resources, follow IZEA at x.com/izea.

IZEA's Strategic Move: Acquires Hoozu to Strengthen Global Position and Enhance Its Influence in the APAC Region

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