In a deal that underscores the surging momentum of the creator economy, Launchd has snapped up New Zealand’s WeAreTENZING, fusing two of the region’s most influential talent networks at a time when digital influence is fast becoming commercial currency.
The acquisition signals a strategic consolidation across ANZ, as agencies race to scale capabilities in an increasingly competitive and maturing market.
Australian brands are nearing the AU$1 billion mark in influencer and creator spend for 2025, with $830 million invested over the past year—a 13.5 per cent jump that cements it as one of the fastest-growing digital segments.
Globally, the creator economy is swelling into a $253 billion force, on track to triple by 2030, while New Zealand’s market continues its steady climb, reflecting a broader regional shift from experimental spend to embedded strategy.
WeAreTENZING represents a high-impact roster led by Ruby Tui, the two-time Olympic medallist and 2022 Rugby World Cup winner, widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s most recognised athlete-creators.
It also includes Jazz Thornton, the 2021 Young New Zealander of the Year and co-founder of suicide prevention charity Voices of Hope, whose debut film drew more than 80 million views in its first 48 hours
The deal extends Launchd’s footprint following a series of strategic moves in 2024 and 2025: the acquisition of WSM Talent, and the integration of award-winning talent agency Huume, influencer marketing agency Hoozu, and leading speakers bureau ICMI.
Together, these businesses form a connected ecosystem spanning creators, athletes, speakers and technology, delivering scale, cultural relevance and measurable performance for brands across the region.
Nathan Ruff, Head of Creator at Launchd, said the acquisition reflects both the structural growth of the creator economy and Launchd’s ambition to lead it across the region.
Recent research shows four in five brands worldwide either maintained or increased their influencer marketing budgets in 2025, with 47% raising spend by more than 11 per cent year-on-year.
“The creator economy is accelerating, not slowing. Brands are shifting investment into talent-led channels because that is where culture and attention now live.” said Ruff
“Having the best talent across Australia and New Zealand strengthens our leading position, giving our clients scale, deeper cultural relevance and the ability to activate partnerships with real commercial impact.”
“WeAreTENZING is the jewel in the New Zealand crown, and we are incredibly proud to bring them into the Launchd family.” he said.
Dan Sing, CEO of WeAreTENZING, said the partnership opens new commercial pathways for the agency’s talent and clients.
“We have built WeAreTENZING on authentic, purpose-led relationships. Joining Launchd’s network gives our talent broader commercial access into the Australian market, where many of our clients already have a significant audience,”
“The shared expertise and performance infrastructure will accelerate growth on both sides of the Tasman.” said Sing
Launchd’s integrated model now spans creator representation, athlete and speaker management, and deliverable management technology through its Works platform, positioning the group as one of the most connected talent ecosystems in ANZ.
