JACK GUTMAN & ASSOCIATES BOUGHT OUT BY EMPLOYEE
By Adnews Staff
Montreal-based Jack Gutman & Associates has been acquired by a 14-year veteran of the firm. Alice Cekal, a shareholder of the firm who worked in a variety of roles over the years with its founder Jack Gutman, has bought the firm in what she calls a private deal. Financial details were not disclosed. The firm will undergo a name change and officially re-launch as Acacia-Communication by Design Inc. on October 12. Cekal, who will head Acacia as president, said Jack Gutman will remain as a creative consultant with the firm. In addition to continuing to offer packaging and brand building services, the firm will begin to focus on the high technology industry and plans to expand into the U.S. Initially the firm will focus on the New York and Vermont markets because of their proximity to Montreal. The firm will also continue to offer corporate advertising, communications and brand identity services for clients including Beatrice Foods, Clairol, Mead Johnson, Pfizer and Helene Curtis.