In a move signaling strong confidence in the independent agency model, Breakwater Management, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm, has acquired a majority stake in Chemistry, an award-winning, full-service marketing and digital agency. This investment, supported by Genesis Park and Tecum Capital through a combination of debt and equity, positions Chemistry for accelerated growth, expansion into new service lines, and deeper market penetration.
As the marketing landscape becomes more complex and competitive, this partnership highlights the increasing value placed on creative agility, integrated service offerings, and the data-driven innovation that independent agencies like Chemistry bring to the table.
Strategic Significance of the Investment
The investment marks a significant step forward for Chemistry, enabling it to:
- Accelerate organic growth through internal innovation and expanded client service capabilities.
- Pursue strategic acquisitions to diversify offerings across disciplines and geographies.
- Enhance its position as one of the fastest-growing independent agencies in the U.S.
“Breakwater saw what makes Chemistry different — our bold approach to solving complex challenges and delivering measurable impact,” said Ned Show, CEO of Chemistry.
Chemistry’s Integrated Capabilities and Client Impact
Chemistry delivers a full spectrum of marketing solutions, making it a valuable strategic partner to some of the world’s most recognized brands, including:
- Coca-Cola
- Five Guys
- Frontdoor
- Netflix
- NFL
Its services span across:
- Research and strategy
- Branding, design, and creative
- Video production and media planning
- Analytics and performance optimization
Additionally, through its digital arm, React Digital, Chemistry delivers robust technology offerings such as:
- Website and mobile app development
- UI/UX design
- Real-time analytics
- Digital performance optimization
Through Chemistry Cultura, the agency also specializes in marketing to the U.S. Hispanic audience, reflecting a deep commitment to cultural fluency and inclusive marketing.
Industry Recognition and Momentum
Chemistry has earned widespread recognition, including:
- Ad Age A-List Agency
- Chief Marketer Agency of the Year
- Adweek Midsize Agency of the Year
- Adweek Fastest Growing Agency
- Two-time Campaign U.S. Independent Agency of the Year finalist
These accolades reflect its sustained creative excellence, business growth, and a reputation for delivering measurable outcomes for clients.
Breakwater’s Vision and Confidence in Chemistry
For Breakwater Management, this investment reflects its strategy to back best-in-class firms that are innovating at the intersection of creativity, technology, and data.
“Chemistry was the clear choice… Their exceptional talent, collaborative culture, and transformative results provide a solid foundation for continued expansion,” said Eric Beckman, Managing Partner at Breakwater.
“They blend creativity with data and technology — a powerful combination that puts them at the forefront of the industry,” added Jeff Goldstein, Partner at Breakwater.
With this support, Chemistry is poised to further differentiate itself in a crowded agency landscape, amplify its impact, and scale its integrated services model
The Breakwater-Chemistry partnership underscores a pivotal moment for independent agencies that combine bold creative vision, multicultural depth, and digital expertise. As brands seek nimble, high-impact marketing partners, this investment equips Chemistry with the capital and strategic backing to lead the next wave of agency innovation.
In an industry where data-driven creativity and measurable results are non-negotiable, Chemistry’s model is not just future-ready — it’s future-defining.
