Martin Leads IPG's Merger List

The Interpublic Group’s merger of Long Haymes Carr and Mullen last week has triggered speculation that the network is considering further consolidation.

The Martin Agency in Richmond, Va., sources said, tops the list of shops that could be “reinforced” either through a merger with an existing IPG holding or via an acquisition designed to expand Martin’s geographic scope or depth of service offerings.

Michael Sennott, deputy chairman of The Lowe Group, Martin’s immediate parent within IPG’s corporate structure, acknowledged that Lowe is looking to expand Martin.

Both Sennott and Martin chairman John Adams, however, downplayed suggestions that Martin will be combined with IPG shop Suissa Miller in Los Angeles, which sources pegged as a likely partner forMartin.