Stickyeyes

History & Milestones

Stickyeyes was founded in 1996 in Leeds, making it one of the longer-standing independent digital agencies in the UK. The agency itself notes it is "a year older than Google", which launched in 1998. Its early focus was on search marketing, and it gradually expanded into content and digital strategy. In May 2015, Stickyeyes acquired Zazzle Media, a UK-based content marketing agency, creating what was then described as the UK's largest independent digital content marketing offering. The deal brought together 140 staff across three offices and projected operating profits of £3.5 million for 2015/16. At that time, CEO Craig Chalmers led the group, with Simon Penson (founder of Zazzle Media) joining the executive team.

In a later transaction, Stickyeyes was itself acquired by IPG Mediabrands (part of Interpublic Group) in a deal reported to be worth approximately £20 million. The acquisition gave Stickyeyes the backing of one of the world’s largest advertising holding companies while retaining its brand and leadership. Under IPG Mediabrands, the agency has continued to grow its client base and technology capabilities.

Services & Technology

Stickyeyes offers a comprehensive range of digital marketing services including Digital Consultancy & Strategy, Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising, Content Marketing, Audience Insights & Data Analytics, eCommerce Marketing, and Technical Infrastructure Consulting. The agency has invested more than a decade in developing an exclusive software suite that integrates data from leading sources to inform every strategic and tactical decision. This suite is used to analyse search engine results, audience segments, and long-term brand performance.

Clients & Sector Expertise

Stickyeyes works with brands in 25 countries. Its client list includes well-known names from gambling (Gala Bingo, Mecca Bingo), consumer goods (GHD), office supplies (Staples), car rental (Hertz), and entertainment (MTV, NFL). The company has a particular strength in the iGaming/gambling sector, where it has been described as a "leading agency" based on a former employee’s LinkedIn post referencing a minimum £20k monthly retainer for gambling clients.

Ownership & Structure

Stickyeyes is now a wholly owned subsidiary of IPG Mediabrands, itself part of Interpublic Group (IPG). Prior to the acquisition, the company was majority-owned by then-CEO Craig Chalmers and his wife. The agency’s team of more than 200 people works across two UK offices (Leeds and London), supported by the global resources of IPG’s 54,000 employees.

Recent Developments

The agency continues to be recognised as a top-tier performer. Its official Instagram profile states it has been named "#1 Digital Agency for 6 years running" and "2nd Best Company". In 2020, it partnered with NFL Gamepass to launch a social media draft prediction campaign. As of 2025/2026, Stickyeyes remains active in the performance marketing space, featuring in lists of leading European B2B agencies.