Genius Brands International has announced plans for a transformative acquisition of ChizComm as well as ChizComm Beacon Media, its media research, planning and buying division.

ChizComm is the largest purchaser of children’s media across both traditional and digital platforms in North America, as well as a leader in PR, media, and marketing within the kids/family media and consumer product sectors.

ChizComm Beacon Media has consistently been ranked the largest media buyer within the Kids 2-11 age group. The company represents more than 32 percent of total Gross Rating Points and now represents 34 percent of the total GRPs within the Kids two-11 demographic.  The company’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. ChizComm achieves this goal and more, by driving revenue and generating immediate synergies and strategic opportunities to enhance the core businesses of Genius,” says Andy Heyward, chairman and chief executive officer, Genius Brands. “ChizComm’s reputation, integrity and unparalleled passion for the industry is completely aligned with what we stand for.  Their team has very smartly built an incredible marketing engine with best-in-class ability to connect brands and consumers in a highly competitive market, and we see that as a powerful complement to our forward growth at Genius Brands, including Kartoon Channel!”

As a part of the transaction, ChizComm Ltd and ChizComm Beacon Media will continue to operate as independent divisions of Genius Brands, under the leadership of Harold Chizick as chief executive officer, Jennifer Chizick as chief operating officer, Donna MacNeil as president and Kathleen Campisano as ChizComm Global chief marketing officer and general manager of ChizComm Beacon Media.

“We are simply thrilled to find a partner in Genius Brands who shares our energy, enthusiasm and passion for the business of entertainment, media, licensing and consumer products,” says Harold Chizick, ChizComm chief executive officer and co-founder. “Many of our clients are expanding into content development and licensing opportunities, so this partnership extends our capabilities to meet our clients’ evolving needs.  This transaction also provides us a solid financial partner and additional resources to further accelerate our growth.”