• Late-2024 Headliners: How our clients made an impact before the end of the year

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    As communication pros everywhere emerge from the end-of-December hibernation, we’re here to offer some light reading. (Bonus: No need to dig through your entire inbox.)

    The fourth quarter is always packed. Between Friendsgivings, holiday parties, cookie baking, and White Elephant exchanges, our public relations and public affairs colleagues were supporting our headline-making clients right up until year’s end.

    The theme for our final Headliners of 2024 is community. From an Army vet-turned-school bus driver to a new pedestrian bridge connecting the City of Buffalo, to efforts tackling food insecurity and homelessness, and even the joy of cheering on your favorite baseball team in a New Era Cap—our work has focused on bringing people together. 

    We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished alongside our clients in 2024 and the difference we’re making in our communities. Curious about what you missed between cookie bites and eggnog sips? Check out our latest headlines below.

    ‘It’s pretty cool’: Army veteran Timothy Jach serves community from behind the wheel

    CBS58 Milwaukee – December 15, 2024

    Timothy Jach served 20 years in the U.S. Army, with multiple deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Columbia, and El Salvador. A Purple Heart recipient, Tim joined Student Transportation of America (STA) to help address the shortage of bus drivers and give back to the community where he grew up. With such a remarkable story, Tim deserved to be recognized. Our team worked with STA and CBS58 to arrange a feature story highlighting what it means for Tim to work in his hometown school district and how his military experience shapes his role today. After reconnecting with his community two decades later, Tim is excited to keep serving as a bus driver for the next two decades.

    A bridge in Buffalo heralds a new era for the city’s LaSalle Park

    Wallpaper – October 28, 2024

    If you followed the events along the Erie Canal last summer, you might remember the bridge that traveled all the way from Italy before being transported down the canal to Buffalo. That bridge now serves as a key connection between the city and a new 100+ acre waterfront park (formerly LaSalle Park) along the Niagara River and Lake Erie. Our team collaborated with the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy (RWPC) to support this historic project, working with reporters across the world to generate coverage. While the park itself won’t be fully completed until 2026, the installation of this bridge marks an exciting first step toward connecting the community in a way Buffalo has never seen before. When the new and improved park begins opening in phases in 2026, it will feature sports fields, nature trails, a concert venue, playgrounds, a sledding hill, and more, making it a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike.

    A Yankees-Dodgers World Series fits, especially in the realm of baseball caps

    The Athletic – October 25, 2024

    As New Era Cap prepared to celebrate the 70th anniversary of its iconic 59FIFTY cap, those familiar with the brand knew its deep significance in American culture, seamlessly bridging sports, fashion, music, and style. To mark the moment, The Athletic published an in-depth feature on the history and impact of the 59FIFTY cap, timed perfectly with the 2024 World Series. The matchup featured two of the most iconic franchises—and caps—in the world. The distinct design and fit of a New Era Cap continues to unite people. Collectors and fans across the globe connect on different styles, collections, designs, and, of course, their favorite sports teams. While this story highlights the 59FIFTY, New Era’s influence extends far beyond baseball caps.

    ‘I’m really excited’: Western New Yorkers share their expectations for Buffalo Pro Soccer

    WKBW-TV – October 3, 2024

    Buffalo is well known as a sports town, but it’s not just the Sabres and Bills fans who keep the scene alive. Over the last several months, The Martin Group has been working with Buffalo Pro Soccer to build a professional soccer club from the ground up. That’s right—pro soccer is coming to Buffalo, and you’ll have a front row seat. Launching an organization like this from scratch is no small task. But one thing the team behind Buffalo Pro Soccer knew from the start was that they wanted the community to play an active role. Through public surveys and community town hall meetings, we’ve worked to keep Western New Yorkers informed and involved in all the big decisions that are shaping this new team, and so far, fans are loving it.

    Regional Food Bank provides meals for Thanksgiving holiday

    Spectrum News Albany – November 28, 2024

    In New York State, one in four adults face food insecurity and organizations like our client, the Regional Food Bank, work tirelessly to combat this crisis. Ahead of Thanksgiving, our team supported the Regional Food Bank to organize a massive volunteer event and meal distribution spanning six counties in the Capital Region. The effort provided 150,000 meals to 30,000 people, helping to meet a critical need in the community during the holiday season.

    ‘Gift of Warmth’ clothing drive returns for the holiday season

    13 WHAM – November 18, 2024

    Winters in the greater Buffalo and Rochester regions are tough. Between the cold weather, ice and snowstorms, we’ve landed ourselves in the top 10 of the snowiest states in the country. And while the snow can be fun, it can also be dangerous—especially for those experiencing housing instability, homelessness, or difficult other situations. This year, we worked with our clients at M&T Bank and Tops Friendly Markets to kick off the annual Gift of Warmth campaign, the longest running winter clothing collection drive in the Buffalo region. In 2023, the drive expanded to include the Rochester region to serve even more neighbors in need. What started as a small collection organized by M&T employees has now turned into an almost four-decade long campaign, helping thousands stay warm during our harsh winters. Since the campaign’s launch, M&T Bank and Tops have been collecting new hats, mittens, gloves, and scarves to be distributed by The Salvation Army to local families and individuals.

    Wealth management firm expands in Rochester region

    Rochester Business Journal – November 18, 2024

    To meet growing market needs in the Rochester region, Wilmington Trust, a subsidiary of M&T Bank, is expanding its business and adding new talent to their teams in Upstate New York. The firm’s newest wealth management executives in Rochester joined its existing local team of 27 colleagues to fuel future growth and deliver on the firm’s deep commitment to its clients and the Rochester community. Our team had the opportunity to work with our clients at M&T to share this expansion news in the Rochester market.

    Want to learn more about The Martin Group’s work? Click here.

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  • The Martin Group earns 16 awards at PRSA Buffalo Niagara’s 2024 Excals

    You searched for new era cap – Page 9 of 31 – The Martin Group

    On September 26, The Martin Group received 16 awards at the 2024 PRSA Buffalo Niagara Excalibur Awards ceremony, earning industry recognition for the outstanding work of the agency’s public relations, public affairs, and content teams. The winning projects represent The Martin Group’s continued commitment to excellence across Western New York and beyond.

    The annual Excalibur Awards recognize the best public relations campaigns and tactics in the Buffalo Niagara region. Since 1990, this event has honored communications leaders while highlighting meaningful work that has made a difference in the Western New York community.

    The Martin Group earned five gold, five silver, and five bronze awards as well as a platinum “Best in Show” award for work with two clients, the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy and Carver Companies. The full list of awards includes:

    Platinum Award:

    • Transporting a Transformative Bridge to Buffalo, Partnering with Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy and Carver Companies

    Gold Awards:

    • New Era Cap Announces 2024 MLB Collections
    • Independent Health Foundation’s First Night Buffalo Stays Digital for Safe, Accessible New Year’s Eve
    • Transporting a Transformative Bridge to Buffalo, Partnering with Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy and Carver Companies
    • Pro Soccer is Coming to Buffalo
    • Ambulance Service Providers Hold “Direct Pay” Press Conferences Across Upstate in One Day

    Silver Awards:

    • Winning $1 Million for Chautauqua Lake in New York State Budget
    • Restaurant Reservation Anti-Piracy Act, Partnering with the New York State Restaurant Association
    • Connecting New York, One Gigabit at a Time – Partnering with Greenlight Networks
    • M&T Bank, Tops Friendly Markets Provide Gift of Warmth to Mark Winter’s Arrival
    • The Martin Group’s “She’s Got Next” Series Explores Opportunities, Challenges for Women in Sports

    Bronze Awards:

    • Celebrating the 70th Anniversary of New Era Cap’s 59FIFTY
    • Strength and Stability Amid Healthcare Industry Challenges
    • Introducing Weed Delivery to the Western New York Market, Partnering with Canterra
    • Amplifying the “Voices” of Western New York’s Restaurant Industry, Partnering with the New York State Restaurant Association
    • Introducing “The Everest of the Seas” to U.S. Audiences, Partnering with Vendée Globe

    “At The Martin Group, our team is consistently working with our clients to develop and produce meaningful campaigns that make a difference for their organizations and our communities. Seeing our hard work recognized by industry peers is incredibly rewarding,” said John Mackowiak, Vice President of Public Relations at The Martin Group. “We’re grateful to our clients for all the opportunities to serve and support their communications needs, and we’re looking forward to the work to come in the year ahead. Congratulations to my colleagues for their tremendous impact.”

    During the Excalibur Awards, the PRSA Buffalo Niagara also awards three top individual honors, including the Outstanding Executive Award, Board of Directors’ Distinguished Service Award, and May C. Randazzo Outstanding Practitioner Award. This year, Eric Feldstein, Western New York Regional President and Head of Business Banking at M&T Bank, received the Outstanding Executive Award and was introduced by John Mackowiak and Thea Pecht, Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications at M&T Bank. The Martin Group has worked with Eric Feldstein and M&T Bank for several years, providing support in Western New York and across New York State.

    An incredibly deserving winner of the PRSA Outstanding Executive Award, Eric Feldstein is deeply committed to strengthening and uplifting the Western New York community. He works diligently to build connections, empower rising leaders, and steward the bank’s determined efforts to serve local needs. Among his notable recent accomplishments, Feldstein led his community banking team in creating and launching M&T Bank’s Western New York Community Impact Week, a massive, one-week volunteer initiative that mobilizes M&T employees to serve as volunteers in the community. More than 1,000 M&T employees volunteered during the last WNY Community Impact Week, which was held in May 2024.

    Want to learn more about The Martin Group’s work? Click here.

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  • Celebrating 70 Years of the 59FIFTY

    You searched for new era cap – Page 9 of 31 – The Martin Group

    It all started in 1920 with the creation of New Era Cap Co., a family-owned business that hand-crafted headwear right here in Buffalo, New York. Led by Ehrhardt Koch, New Era began producing thousands of caps each year.

    In the 1930s, Erhardt’s son, Harold joined the family business. Noticing the change in style and the increase of popularity in baseball, the two began creating the original baseball caps. By 1950, New Era was the only independent cap maker working for the big leagues.

    Just a few years later, in 1954, New Era Cap’s 59FIFTY was born.

    The vision behind the 59FIFTY was a more contemporary style that included a 22-step production process that strengthened the visor stitching and created a stiffer crown, allowing for a more defined and visible logo on each cap. When looking at the 59FIFTY, you can identify the four hallmarks:

    • A structed front panel for stability and shape
    • A full crown that provides a broad profile
    • A curvable visor
    • A closed-back cap, available in true sizing

    As time went on, the 59FIFTY started to be seen everywhere. They were selling to Major League Baseball teams across the country, college sports programs, and directly to fans. After proving themselves in the big leagues, New Era eventually became the exclusive supplier of on-field caps for the MLB, with all players wearing none other than the 59FIFTY for each of their games.

    Up until this point, New Era was only producing 59FIFTY caps for players and fans in the traditional team colors. But in 1996, Spike Lee changed everything. The filmmaker wanted a red Yankees cap to wear to the World Series, but that cap didn’t exist—yet. Lee decided to call New Era Cap personally for his request and after getting approval from the Yankees and the MLB, New Era was able to produce the first cap outside of team colors.

    This one moment created a cultural shift that no one saw coming.

    Soon, the demand was high for alternate colors of caps—fans wanted to represent their favorite teams while matching their outfits and personal style. That one red cap was the catalyst for change within New Era, allowing creativity to flow and starting a new wave of design options.

    Since 1996, the 59FIFTY has become the canvas for collaborations—from the modern brands Fear of God and Supreme to the luxury fashion houses of Gucci and Helmut Lang. Fitted caps have become part of everyday life, spanning from sports to lifestyle and everything in-between.

    The 59FIFTY as we know now is many things. It’s the official on-field cap for Major League Baseball, as well as the official cap of the NFL, NBA, and WNBA. It’s the style worn by athletes around the globe during some of their best moments, but it’s also a cultural icon worn on red carpets, fashion runways, and some of the biggest music stages in the world.

    It’s not just the professional athletes and celebrities who are the champions of these caps. Across the globe, people collect some of the most exclusive designs from New Era, following the company and their partnerships while patiently waiting for the next drop. Some of these collectors have over 15,000 caps, ranging from some of the earliest and classic designs, to some of the most eccentric and colorful combinations—sharing their journey on social media and growing the “cap culture” following.

    Over the last 70 years, New Era Cap has become a household name, and not just in its hometown of Buffalo. This year, we’re celebrating the last seven decades; and as the company reaches this milestone, we’re honored to work with them.

    New Era has created a cultural phenomenon that has impacted the entire globe, and only proven that they have no plans of slowing down any time soon—and as we look into the future of the 59FIFTY, we’re excited to see what they come up with next.

    Want to learn more about The Martin Group’s work with New Era Cap? Click here.

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  • “She’s Got Next” event explores opportunities, challenges for women in sports

    You searched for new era cap – Page 9 of 31 – The Martin Group

    Anchoring the sports desk. Decision-making in the executive suite. Jump shots from every angle—and distance. The last few years have seen big strides for women in all corners of athletics, but in 2024 we’ve seen this promise of the present—and more to come—illuminated like never before. 

    On April 19, The Martin Group accentuated this moment with our first “She’s Got Next” panel discussion, which recognized local female leaders making a difference in the sports world. Built off our reoccurring content series of the same name, the event featured five women from Western New York’s sports landscape: Briana Aldridge, WKBW Sports Reporter; Rachel Cappellino, Buffalo Bills, Director of Partnership/Business Development; Jesse Ladoue McMullen, New Era Cap, Marketing Director, Licensed Sports; Cara Murphy, Buffalo Sabres, VP Marketing; and Barb Questa, St. Bonaventure, Interim Co-Director of Athletics/SWA.

    Over the course of the morning’s program within our Buffalo office atrium, the quintet addressed a series of topics concerning women’s roles in athletics; how things have changed over their time within different corners of the industry; and what workplace dynamics continue to be a work in progress.

    Here were some of the event’s takeaways.

    A deep talent pool—and growing deeper

    Not so long ago, women working in high-level positions within sports media, apparel, collegiate athletics, and professional franchises were scarce. Not anymore. According to New Era Cap’s Jesse Ladoue McMullen, women can now be found in all these roles—and with plenty of qualified candidates waiting in the wings.

    “The female candidates coming to interview for positions at New Era Cap are so much more qualified than they were seven years ago,” Ladoue McMullen said. “They’re getting the right internships. They’re getting the right work study experiences and educational opportunities. I am so impressed with the rise of the quality I’ve been seeing enter the workforce in sports.”

    “For me, it’s about excitement and opportunity,” Questa said. “The group we have up here, we are so different in the careers we have, but we’re all involved in sports, and are all very strong, confident women. I think a lot of people don’t understand that we can get involved in sports in so many different ways, with so many different educational backgrounds.”

    Going mainstream

    After an NCAA basketball tournament that broke viewership records and delivered memorable plays and players, the feats of female athletes are no longer relegated to the second half of SportsCenter. They lead the broadcast, all while introducing uninitiated spectators to skilled athletes doing spectacular things.

    But this mainstream access came as a result of intentional practices.

    “I can say I advocate for women’s sports,” Aldridge said. “And before, I thought that meant just going to local colleges to interview people and give them spotlight. I do try to push those stories, but I also started to take accountability for being one of the people who didn’t know the big names in women’s basketball two or three years ago. … We can’t just say we support women in sports, we support college basketball. Now, we actually have to be a part of it.”

    Growing support systems

    Support is essential for anything to grow. This has certainly been the case for women in sports, with our panelists helped along not only by fellow women in the industry, but also their male counterparts. That support is critical in helping women grow confident in their positions and possibilities; and in some cases, understanding that what makes you different is really your superpower.

    “A few years ago, it was the Sabres 50th anniversary and we had a kickoff where the vice presidents talk about the initiatives for the upcoming season,” Murphy said. “On the marketing side, I put a lot of work into what our 50th season was going to look like. My boss at the time, John, suggested I go up and pitch. I was nervous at the time, but it gave me a growth opportunity and exposure to other staff members who see the work I put in. That was meaningful for me – that he had the confidence in me to speak on behalf of our team.”

    Cultivating those support systems becomes crucial when trying to find that elusive work-life balance.

    “This is going to be a hot take, but I think when working in sports, work-life balance doesn’t exist,” Cappellino said. “Because when you work for a team or for a brand that you’re so passionate about, it becomes part of your identity. That’s why sports matter so much to many of us. It’s part of who I am. It’s the fabric of me, and I think there are really good things that come from that.”

    Speaking up still matters

    Even though progressive strides have been made for women in sports, there’s still a long way to go—and advocating for change still pushes the pace.

    While more women have gained leadership roles in sports organizations and companies, they still often find themselves as the only woman in the room. Learning to manage that comes with repetition and practice – trusting your instincts, research, and experience to voice your ideas and opinions with confidence.

    “I’ve learned that you have to have uncomfortable conversations to make it comfortable,” Aldridge said. “And being a black woman in sports—the pool of women is small, and the pool of black women is a little bit smaller. I was very scared to have those uncomfortable conversations when starting out, but I’ve also learned that 90% of the men are actually willing to listen. I just had to speak up and have my voice to let it be heard.”

    The future is bright

    While obstacles continue for women working in the sports industry, steady growth with inflection moments that capture the imagination of the American public (like the 2024 NCAA women’s basketball championship) serve as inspiration to tackle those barriers. Young women not only have more opportunities to play sports, but they have a diversity of role models across a range of career paths. With more diversity in leadership positions, the sports industry can grow in more inclusive and creative directions – one voice at a time.Ready for more She’s Got Next? Find the whole series here

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  • ADDYs 2024

    You searched for new era cap – Page 9 of 31 – The Martin Group

    Each year, we look forward to the American Advertising Awards as a way to showcase our work and celebrate those in the community that are making waves in the industry. The 2024 ADDYs in Buffalo and Albany were no different – representing a variety of work and highlighting the best of the best.

    The Martin Group took home multiple awards at each show, featuring clients and campaigns from some of our key focus areas. New Era Cap, Nike, and Under Armour were among the winners in Buffalo, demonstrating the agency’s expertise in sports marketing, while our team in Albany secured a win for SUNY Fulton Montgomery Community College, highlighting our work in higher education.

    In Buffalo, our very own Dre LoPiccolo was also honored with the Future Star Award, which recognizes an outstanding young professional for their creative talents and potential for growth.

    Congratulations to Dre, our amazing team, clients, and all the 2024 ADDYs winners!

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  • She’s Got Next: Advice

    You searched for new era cap – Page 9 of 31 – The Martin Group

    We’re celebrating the first year of “She’s Got Next” with the greatest hits from our conversations with movers and shakers in the world of women’s sports.

    What was the top advice from our guests in 2023? Whether you’re starting out in your career, moving into management, or a veteran of the sports game, we can all learn a little something from these wise women.

    Read the comments. Yes, it can be painful, but it’s critical for Jesse Ladoue McMullen, Marketing Director, Licensed Sports, New Era Cap. “Reading the comments fuels me and makes me want to celebrate women louder. It motivates me to continue to forge my own path so more women see themselves in this industry without limitation.”

    Pay it forward. “If someone…believes in you enough to take a chance on you, your skills and your ability, be sure to pay it forward and help open doors for those who succeed you,” said Danette Leighton, CEO Women’s Sports Foundation. “At every step of your journey, strive to be a role model, because you never know who could be looking to you for inspiration.

    Stay true to your values. “My advice for young women who want to pursue a career in the sports industry is to stay anchored to the innocence and the why behind what made you fall in love with the game in the first place,” said Nikki Bartholomew, head coach FC Buffalo. “Continue to increase your inner strength with your success so you can develop into your full potential.”

    There’s room for everyone. “Give it your best. Don’t compete with co-workers; work alongside them. Be a leader. Show your creativity and your dedication. We notice these things,” said Naomi Silver, president CEO and COO of Rochester Community Baseball

    Embrace cold calling. “Read everything. Have subscriptions to newspapers, read books, read fiction, nonfiction, whatever you want. … Search the websites of news organizations you admire or would want to work for and send emails—cold, out of the blue emails, which I absolutely encourage,” said Christine Brennan, sports columnist.

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  • She’s Got Next: Representation

    You searched for new era cap – Page 9 of 31 – The Martin Group

    We’re celebrating the first year of “She’s Got Next” with the greatest hits from our conversations with movers and shakers in the world of women’s sports.

    One common thread among our guests in 2023—the importance of representation for girls and women in sports. Here are some of our key takeaways:

    We need more media representation.

    “How can women’s sports grow without exposure? The more fans are introduced to faces, names, teams, rivalries, etc. the more they will continue to connect and invest time and money into women’s sports. Metrics are favorable.” Jesse Ladoue McMullen, Marketing Director, Licensed Sports New Era Cap

    “It is outrageous that 50 years after Title IX, women’s sports only receive a small fraction of total airtime and sponsorship dollars. We must push the needle forward and that is why I am thrilled to see more media outlets and advertisers making the smart choice to showcase women’s sports.” Danette Leighton, CEO Women’s Sports Foundation

    And within that media representation more diversity, please.

    “When I started running, I never saw myself reflected in the running community. I created the account Native Women Running as a space for others to share their journey.” Verna Volker, Founder of Native Women Running

    Along with news media, more comprehensive marketing strategies are needed.

    “Increased visibility comes not just from media coverage but from marketing strategies. Another important piece to the growth of the league is more in-depth marketing of the women that play the game, giving fans the ability to connect with them on a different level.” Rushia Brown, former WNBA player, motivational speaker

    Increased and diversified coverage and marketing of women’s sports benefits society by breaking down persistent stereotypes.

    “Investing in women’s sports is critical because it’s about ensuring more people, both boys and girls, see women playing sports. … It’s important … that [girls] see people like themselves playing and succeeding. For boys, they see the inclusivity and learn to be OK with a woman leading.” Jessica Gelman, CEO Kraft Analytics Group and co-founder and co-chair of the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference

    “We need to show everyone that, yes, we are female hockey players and we can perform just as well as the men if you give us the chance and the opportunity. If you don’t want to watch, keep scrolling.” Mikyla Grant-Mentis, professional hockey player

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  • The Martin Group Headliners: October’s Finest

    You searched for new era cap – Page 9 of 31 – The Martin Group

    It’s spooky season and our public relations and public affairs teams have been dialing it up this month. We’ve worked alongside our clients and colleagues to create some boo-tiful media moments, all while planning our perfect Barbie-themed costumes and saving our least favorite candy for the trick-or-treaters.

    Whether it’s five press conferences in one day, or a creative solution for a client with an important message that’s not necessarily made for TV, our team is making an impact and having some fun bringing their wickedly good ideas to fruition – with just a little bit of hocus pocus involved.

    Here’s some of our recent headliners:

    Removing ‘Unnecessary Burdens from Patients:’ Call to Action for Governor to Sign Direct Pay Legislation – WKTV-TV

    Ambulance service providers are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to sign the “Direct Pay” bill that was passed unanimously in the state Senate and Assembly. To show the overwhelming support for the legislation, on October 12, the United New York Ambulance Network (UNYAN) held press conferences in Rochester, Binghamton, Syracuse, Utica and Albany with local EMS and lawmakers. 

    West Carthage business legally selling locally-grown marijuana – WWNY-TV

    Canterra, New York’s largest cannabis e-commerce and delivery platform, is presenting the North Country Cannabis Growers Showcase hosted by Black River Supply Company. Matt Krupp, CEO & co-founder of Canterra, explains how this program allows him as a CAURD licensee to partner with brick-and-mortar dispensary hopefuls still in the process of completing the state licensing process, which is currently held up by a Supreme Court injunction. Customers can enjoy a dispensary-style experience and choose from dozens of high-quality recreational cannabis products.   

    The Martin Group acquires Albany region design firm – Albany Business Review

    The Martin Group has officially acquired the Albany boutique creative firm Spiral Design Studio. As part of this transition, the Spiral Design team has added their incredible talents to  The Martin Group’s Capital Region operation and moved into the agency’s new office space in the Troy Innovation Garage.

    What you need to know: Medicare annual enrollment Q&A – WKBW-TV

    Enrolling in a Medicare plan can be confusing due to the variety of  coverage choices and complexity of the process. WKBW-TV in Buffalo recognized the importance of ensuring our senior population and their caregivers are prepared, so they partnered with Independent Health to host a Facebook Live Q&A. It featured Senior Reporter Eileen Buckley and Independent Health Senior Medical Sales Representative Jean Kihl. The two fielded questions from viewers about their existing coverage and provided information about the other health plan options available to them.   

    New Era Taps Former Oofos President Steve Gallo as Its GM for North America – Yahoo! Lifestyle

    Buffalo-born international sports and lifestyle brand New Era Cap recently hired Steve Gallo as its General Manager for North America. In this new role, Gallo will guide the ongoing growth and success of New Era’s operation in the U.S. and Canada, driving innovation and customer expansion for the brand.

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  • The Martin Group acquires boutique creative firm Spiral Design Studio

    You searched for new era cap – Page 9 of 31 – The Martin Group

    Deal expands The Martin Group’s presence in Capital Region, while adding to agency’s branding and digital marketing capabilities.

    Lauren Payne joins The Martin Group as senior advisor; Spiral Design Studio team members also make transition to new agency.

    ALBANY / NYC / ROCHESTER / BUFFALO (N.Y.) – The Martin Group, an award-winning integrated marketing communications agency headquartered in Buffalo with office operations across New York State, today announced the acquisition of prominent boutique creative firm Spiral Design Studio. The deal comes roughly five years after The Martin Group’s expansion into the Capital Region market and three years after its announcement of a strategic equity investment from Hearst Newspapers.

    As part of the agreement, The Martin Group will engage Spiral Design Studio’s existing client roster, including 30+ active branding, marketing, and digital services accounts. The agency will also retain Spiral Design Studio staff members Neil Wright, Jeanie Guity, Will vonWedel, Jesse Schaller, and Michele Rittie. Spiral Design Studio founder and president Lauren Payne will join The Martin Group as a senior advisor. The transaction officially closed in late-September, with the transition effective as of October 2, 2023. Full terms of the acquisition were not publicly disclosed.

    “The Capital Region is an important growth market for our agency, and we continue to look for strategic opportunities to enhance our local talent, services, and overall operational depth,” said Matt Davison, chief business officer of The Martin Group. “This acquisition reflects a shared belief that The Martin Group and Spiral Design Studio can do exceptional things together, all while creating an extremely potent offering for companies and organizations locally and globally.”

    The Martin Group—which has 95+ employees in a variety of communications disciplines and a strategic alignment with Hearst Newspapers—recently executed a multi-year office lease for the Enterprise Suite at the Troy Innovation Garage in downtown Troy, N.Y. This location is now the hub for all agency activities in the market and will become the working home for Spiral Design Studio staff members, who are now full-time employees of The Martin Group.

    “For over 35 years, Spiral Design Studio served an outstanding collection of influential brands and impactful nonprofit organizations,” said Payne. “In thinking about the next chapter for our amazing company, I felt it critical to align with a like-minded agency partner that shared our dedication to culture and design excellence. The Martin Group was a natural fit to be that companion, based on their commitment to making a difference for their associates, clients, and the many communities they operate in. I’m truly excited to be part of their ongoing momentum in the Capital Region.”

    Founded in 2001, The Martin Group provides research, strategy, analytics, creative, public relations, public affairs, digital marketing, paid media and advertising, and social media solutions to help brands and organizations effectively differentiate and tell their unique stories to the world.

    The Martin Group’s Capital Region operations, which first opened in 2018, are overseen by Albany office general manager Jennifer Hunold. The Albany location is also home to the agency’s public affairs and public relations practices, led separately by vice presidents Andrew Mangini and John Mackowiak. In 2020, The Martin Group formalized its partnership with Hearst Newspapers and accepted both a strategic equity investment and an appointment of Times Union publisher George R. Hearst III to the agency’s board of directors. One year later in 2021, The Martin Group acquired the notable public affairs firm Gramercy Communications, which had previously served more than 300 clients over 15+ years in business.

    Some of The Martin Group’s 150+ active clients include: Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, New York State Restaurant Association, CDTA, Business for Good, M&T Bank, FuzeHub, ADNET Technologies, Mohawk Valley Health System, Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, PaintCare, New Era Cap, Wegmans, Tops Markets, Sodexo Live!, Rich Products, Phillips Lytle LLP, Western Governors University, Student Transportation of America, and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation.

    In the coming months, the agency anticipates exploring the addition of several subsequent staff member and specialist hires to support The Martin Group’s growing services portfolio and Capital Region expansion efforts.

    About The Martin Group

    The Martin Group is a leading integrated communications firm headquartered in downtown Buffalo with office operations in Albany, Rochester, and New York, NY. The firm works with best-in-class organizations ranging from small businesses to global enterprises and has extensive experience in several industry verticals, including food and beverage, sports and lifestyle, healthcare, financial services, education, professional services, and not-for-profit support. Continually recognized for marketing communications excellence by the American Advertising Federation, the American Marketing Association, the Public Relations Society of America, and the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts, among others, the agency has been previously selected as a “Top Private Company” and “Fastest Growing Company” by various regional news publications. For more information on The Martin Group, visit www.martingroup.co, or follow the agency on Instagram @martingroupco.

    About Spiral Design Studio

    Spiral Design Studio was founded on a love for design and a passion for helping businesses succeed. Since 1989, the studio has been dedicated to finding solutions that combine the needs of its national and international clients with the latest in technology and the beauty of design. The firm’s award-winning team specializes in the creation of logos and brand identity, website design and digital marketing, print, packaging, and more for a diverse range of businesses across various industries and sectors, including large companies, small startups, and nonprofits. Over the last 35 years, Spiral has aimed to be a place where designers can flourish, and clients can grow.

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