Quad Strengthens Global Offering with Acquisition of Leading Strategic and Creative Agency Apple Tree Group


SUSSEX, Wisc. (From news reports) -- Quad/Graphics, Inc. has acquired Apple Tree Group ("Apple Tree"), a strategic and creative agency specializing in point-of-sale advertising innovation for some of the world's best-known brands. The acquisition strengthens Quad's one-of-a-kind integrated marketing solutions offering that helps brand owners and retailers reduce complexity, enhance process efficiencies and improve marketing spend effectiveness across all media channels.

Apple Tree, which is based in Mexico City near Quad's established Mexico operations, serves clients around the world. The agency's comprehensive portfolio of solutions, which range from marketing strategy and creative services to industrial design, visual communications and display solutions, complements Quad's differentiated marketing platform that includes customer analytics, campaign strategies, media optimization and global production. Like Quad, Apple Tree is at the forefront of sustainability efforts and is committed to sustainable practices throughout its supply chain.

"Quad is pleased to welcome Apple Tree, which shares our passion for innovation and sustainability, and focus on providing clients with solutions that solve marketing challenges and motivate consumer purchases," said Joel Quadracci, Chairman, President & CEO of Quad. "Apple Tree has been a trusted partner of ours for several years and, through this acquisition, we are able to further accelerate our transformation as a worldwide marketing solutions partner."

"As part of Quad's unique integrated marketing platform, we help clients eliminate the complexity and inefficiencies of managing multiple vendors, while increasing the effectiveness of their go-to-market efforts," said Javier Manzano who founded Apple Tree in 1991 with his brother Jorge Manzano. "Our companies are well-matched, and we look forward to expanding our reach in Mexico and throughout the world, and improving our clients' marketing experiences through innovative products and services."

Apple Tree will become part of Quad's in-store marketing group.

The acquisition was completed on January 22, 2020. The parties are not disclosing the terms of the acquisition.