Principal: Chris Kuenne, CEO
Ownership: Publicis Groupe (acquisition pending)
Offices: 10 wholly owned globally; 9 in US
US revenue: $218 million
Capabilities
Rosetta has significantly broadened its scope since its founding in 1998 by Chris Kuenne as a business consultancy. The technology-driven, interactive marketing firm now offers creative services, e-commerce and mobile development, including apps, search marketing and analytics, as well as consulting services. Its largest vertical practices are healthcare, technology and consumer products and retail.
“Our value proposition is to bring what we call a three-gear solution to the connected world,” says CEO and founder Kuenne. “The three gears are insights, which are brought by our consulting team; ideas and programs, brought by our agency services; all enabled and scaled up by our technology practice.”
Accounts
Canada-based Rogers Communications named Rosetta its direct agency of record in 2010, prompting it to open a Toronto office. Helzberg Diamonds and Hickory Farms both named Rosetta interactive AOR, while Blue Cross Blue Shield and Wyndham Hotels and Resorts tapped Rosetta for direct and interactive work. Automotive electronics retailer Audiovox and Rosetta parted ways in 2010.
Staff
With its Toronto office and acquisition of San Luis Obispo-based Level Studios’ three locations in the fall, Rosetta added four offices in North America and brought employees to more than 1,100 in 2010. The agency closed its Denver office during the year, bringing the net number of office additions to three for 2010.
Partner Michelle Mirchandani left the agency in February of last year.
Performance
Rosetta says it experienced a 23% organic growth in revenues over last year. Total revenues for the year, including its Level Studios acquisition, pushed Rosetta over the $200 million mark. At press time, Publicis Groupe announced it agreed to acquire Rosetta for $575 million. Rosetta will continue to operate independently, and Kuenne retains his title.
