The Independents buys award-winning studio Smuggler in luxury content push
What's the deal? The IndependentsDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has acquired SmugglerDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, a multi-award-winning international creative and production studio, for an undisclosed sum. The move adds Smuggler's film, branded entertainment, and live experience work to the communications group's luxury and lifestyle portfolio.
What each side brings: Founded by Patrick Milling-Smith and Brian Carmody in 2002, Smuggler operates from Los Angeles, New York, and London, representing directors, producers, and creative talent. Its work has won multiple Emmy and Grammy Awards, plus 14 Tony Awards for Broadway productions.
Why now? The Independents is poised for a record 2026, with turnover expected to reach $1.3 billion. The deal deepens its expertise in strategic communications, live experiences, and content production.
What's the endgame? The group wants to meet growing brand demand for content that commands attention — premium branded content, live experiences, and immersive formats. The deal preserves Smuggler's independence while opening new international opportunities.
Smuggler's recent projects include the adidasDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → "Backyard Legends" campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the BurberryDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → campaign "It's Always Burberry Weather" featuring Olivia Colman, Barry Keoghan, and Little Simz, and the Tony and Grammy-winning Buena Vista Social Club on Broadway.
What they're saying: "Smuggler is a true creative force, with an exceptional track record in film and branded entertainment," said Isabelle Chouvet, co-founder and chief executive officer of The Independents. Smuggler's founders called the deal a formalisation of "an already strong relationship."
The signal: The acquisition extends a three-year buying spree that has folded French and international players — including CTZARDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, Atelier LumDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, Inca ProductionsDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, Kennedy, Sunshine, Bureau Béatrice, and Kitten ProductionDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → — into The Independents. It reflects a wider push to consolidate creative and production talent under one roof as luxury brands seek richer, multi-format storytelling.
Read more: us.fashionnetwork.com
Image credit: vancouverfilmschool
