We’re an independent strategy, branding and communications firm founded in New York City in 2002. With over 25 years of global experience building brands across four continents, we deliver smart strategy, bold creativity, engaging storytelling, and exceptional client service. On every project.
Meet our Founder
Lee Rafkin is an accomplished branding expert, marketing strategist, and communications professional, with proven global experience creating, building, and leading successful brands.
Brand Strategy
Brand Identity
Naming
Communications
Market Research
Innovation
Brand Content
Thought Leadership
Brand Management & Activation
Customer Experience
Training & Workshops
Agency Search & Recruiting
We've worked in most international markets, bringing global perspective to every project, no matter how small. From São Paulo to Shanghai, from Miami to Moscow, we are big believers in cross-pollinating consumer, brand, and market insights from all corners of the globe.
Senior Global Strategy Lead, Nestlé Health Sciences
We bring a deep understanding of global cultures, customs, and lifestyles to every project, based on over 25 years of experience across four continents. We’ve rebranded a major bank in Brazil; launched an Internet brand in China; ‘glocalized’ beauty and cosmetic brands in Russia; launched pediatric nutrition formula’s in London, Shanghai, and Mexico City; rebranded cable TV networks across Latin America; launched a financial news network in Europe, Japan, and India; evaluated strategic acquisitions in Paris; led innovation workshops across Europe; and developed a global licensing strategy for the world’s most coveted automotive brand. We understand globalization and how it impacts consumers, brands, and markets.
We’re an independent brand consultancy with an underdog philosophy. We work hard every day to earn our clients’ trust. We partner with a talented network of independent researchers, designers, copywriters and strategists, and flexibly staff projects depending on need. We’ve earned our stripes at firms like Futurebrand, Siegel+Gale, and Consumer Dynamics, and we deliver big-agency results at independent prices.
We have experience in virtually every major category. We’ve worked in the media, advertising, entertainment, technology, health care, consumer brands, licensing, financial services, professional services, education, retail, luxury, lifestyle, beauty, real estate, travel & tourism, government, associations, and non-profit sectors. If we don't have direct experience in your particular industry, we'll work hard to get smart fast.
Brands are about storytelling, and we are skilled narrators. We believe that every brand has a unique narrative arc, and that every touch point has the potential to tell a compelling story. We develop powerful communications and engaging brand content. We love to write, design, create, present, and sell winning ideas. We’re comfortable speaking in the boardroom, in the conference room, and out in the field.
We love what we do, and it shows. We bring energy, passion, and dedication to every project. We take nothing for granted and leave no stone unturned. We've worked on both sides of the table, and always try to walk in the shoes of our clients. We listen and work well with others. We build and train amazing client teams. We understand how organizations make decisions, reach consensus, and implement change. We know how to gain buy-in with senior decision makers and we have the gravitas to command attention when necessary. Because of this, we often become trusted advisors to our clients. Some have worked with us for over fifteen years.
FeaturedWork
Rebranding an industry standard
Creating a breakthrough internet brand for China
