Thompson Spencer and Reason merge to form a leading independent agency

AUCKLAND, Today: Two of New Zealand’s top independent agencies, Thompson Spencer and Reason, have joined forces to create one of the country’s largest independent agency groups.

Both agencies have been industry leaders for 15 years. The newly formed Thompson Spencer Group will continue operating under the Reason and Thompson Spencer brands, led by co-CEOs Melanie Spencer and Tim Pointer.

Thompson Spencer, co-founded by Wendy Thompson and Melanie Spencer, is a full-funnel creative and media agency. Its client roster includes Bupa, Wattyl (Aus/NZ), Asahi, Honda, Mitre 10, and Auckland Transport.

The agency has completed four acquisitions in the last four years, including The Social Club (influencer marketing), Flying Tiger (Chinese social media), Magnesium (media and content production), and People of Influence (talent agency).

Reason, founded by Tim Pointer and Matt Rowe, is a leading performance agency known for delivering exceptional results. Its acquisition of Absolute Analytics in 2021 strengthened its data and insights expertise.

“Thompson Spencer and Reason are at the top of their game. We’re growing, winning business, and making waves. The timing was right to supercharge that momentum by uniting two high-performing teams.” – Melanie Spencer

Reason works with major brands like Chubb Life Insurance, Woolworths, Rebel Sport, Tourism Holdings, Hirepool, DoorDash, and Timely, proving its ability to drive performance across diverse sectors.

The merger brings together creative, media, and performance marketing expertise, offering an integrated approach designed to deliver measurable results for future-focused brands.

“Most mergers happen when agencies need to consolidate to survive—this is the exact opposite,” says Melanie Spencer. “Both businesses are coming off record-breaking years despite economic challenges.”

“Thompson Spencer and Reason are at the top of their game. We’re growing, winning business, and making waves. The timing was right to supercharge that momentum by uniting two high-performing teams.”

“This is a coming together of strengths,” adds Wendy Thompson. “Clients no longer want creative and media strategies in silos. By merging, we’re creating an integrated powerhouse that sets a new standard for independent agencies.”

“This isn’t just about scale—it’s about innovation. We’ve built our agencies from the ground up and know what it takes to succeed. Together, we’ll push boundaries.” – Matt Rowe

With 56 industry experts, the Thompson Spencer Group is now one of New Zealand’s largest independent agencies. Its Auckland teams have merged, while Reason’s Wellington office remains operational.

Matt Rowe, co-founder of Reason says, “This isn’t just about scale—it’s about innovation. We’ve built our agencies from the ground up and know what it takes to succeed. Together, we’ll push boundaries.”

Tim Pointer, co-founder & CEO of Reason adds, “Marketing is evolving fast—AI, automation, and data-led decision-making are changing how brands connect with consumers. This merger equips clients with the best tools to navigate the future.”

With a shared commitment to innovation, creativity, and performance, the new agency is more than just a merger—it’s a fusion of entrepreneurial energy and industry leadership, ready to shake things up.

“This is just the beginning,” says Spencer. “We’re not merging to maintain the status quo—we’re here to challenge it.”