Learfield Acquires N.Y.-Based Branding Agency SME

Learfield has acquired N.Y.-based SME, giving it another layer of capabilities for its 125 college clients. Learfield earlier this year hired Ed O’Hara’s agency to create a new brand campaign with a refreshed logo. Learfield liked the work so much that it opted to buy SME. Founded in '89, SME already has a solid base of business in the college space, counting the ACC, Pac-12, Louisville and North Dakota as clients, in addition to its work with pro teams and leagues. Neither Learfield nor SME revealed terms of the deal, which goes into effect immediately. SME will continue to operate under its current name and brand, and all employees will remain with the firm, both sides said.