As reported in The Licensing Letter in November last year, Genius Brands in November announced the “transformative acquisition” of ChizComm Ltd., a leading North American marketing and media agency, as well as its subsidiary ChizComm Beacon Media, a division involved in media research, planning and media buys.ChizComm is the largest purchaser of children’s media across both traditional and digital platforms in North America, as well as an established leader in PR, media, and marketing within the kids/family media and consumer product sectors.
ChizComm was founded by Harold and Jennifer Chizick in 2013. With offices in New Jersey, Los Angeles, and Toronto, the company represents more than 30 major toy companies and some of the most powerful and iconic brands in the children and family media and toy industries.
ChizComm Beacon Media has consistently been ranked the largest media buyer within the Kids 2-11 age group, representing over 32% of total Gross Rating Points (GRPs).
ChizComm Beacon Media has gained more market share year-to-date, and now represents 34% of the total GRPs within the Kids 2-11 demographic.
Genius Brands said at the time that Chizcomm’s “unique purchasing power and extensive media relationships across networks, including Viacom, Warner Media, Disney, YouTube and other digital platforms, offer clients an unmatched competitive advantage and access to audiences of all ages.”
“Our strategy has been to accelerate the growth of Genius Brands through smart and accretive acquisitions,” stated Genius Brands’ Chairman & CEO Andy Heyward. “ChizComm achieves this goal and more, by driving revenue and generating immediate synergies and strategic opportunities to enhance the core businesses of Genius.”
Heyward says the management teams felt a synergy that would allow them to work together very well.
That is obviously the case, as Chizick is taking on an even greater role in the expanded company.
Chizick co-founded ChizComm in 2013 with his wife Jennifer, and the company’s client list now includes toycos such as MGA Entertainment, Jakks Pacific and Jazwares. He previously served as VP of global communications and promotions for Spin Master, and VP of marketing for Mega Brands.