Erich & Kallman had momentum heading into 2020, then existing business slowed and seven new business opportunities disappeared when COVID-19 emerged. The agency kept rolling with campaigns for the likes of Jolly Rancher and new clients such as water brand Oxigen. The San Francisco-based shop founded by Eric Kallman and Steven Erich added to its team, with an emphasis on diversifying its ranks, and expanded its internship program. Its structure is flatter than some, allowing more junior staffers to learn from more experienced staffers while giving senior leaders who crave those creative connections the chance to keep their minds in the game and stay close to clients.
See all of Ad Age's 2021 Small Agency Award winners here.
Erich & Kallman closed out the tumultuous year without layoffs or salary decreases, and still distributed bonuses despite the economic pressure on the business. Revenue dipped from $7.3 million to $7 million, but the agency managed to end 2020 on a high note, recording its highest fourth-quarter revenue to date, including a $1 million December.
Recent work included helping Jolly Rancher boost ad recall and sales by emphasizing its fruity flavors via a jolly rancher character who rides the candy in quick, quirky videos aimed at teens.
And the agency shot a video for UN Women to bring attention to its #GenerationEquality effort for International Women’s Day 2020.
A big jump in annual revenue is anticipated for 2021, with a $10 million year in its sights.
New business is giving it new momentum. Erich & Kallman became the agency of record for Foster Farms, Great Wolf Resorts, Landing, Lucid Motors and Sunbrella. And after doing work during the pandemic for Take 5 Oil Change, the agency landed its account, as well as Take 5 Oil’s sibling brand Meineke Car Care.
