IPBN member company FAmazing has been a prominent name in the marketing industry, known for its creativity and bold approach. With a recent restructuring and expansion, the agency has evolved into FA Group, consolidating its national and international presence. We held a Q&A with João Fernandes, the company's CEO, to better understand this transformation and its expected market impact. Additionally, we highlight the vision of Bruno Claro, CEO of North Brands, Ricardo Barrelas, CEO of Digital Terroirs, and Paulo Caridade, CEO of Prime Layer, companies now integrated into the group. 

Here's what we learned. 

IPBN: FAmazing has recently undergone a major restructuring and expansion. Can you explain this evolution into FA Group? 

João Fernandes: Absolutely! FAmazing has grown exponentially in recent years, and we felt it was the right time to take a step further. With this restructuring, we have become a true group of companies – FA Group – consisting of several specialized units: FA Agency, FA Creative, FA Dev, FA Performance, FA Events, Digital Terroirs, and North Brands. This evolution allows us to offer an even more complete and specialized service to our clients. 

IPBN: FAmazing has also recently made strategic acquisitions. What led to the merger with North Brands, Digital Terroirs, and Prime Layer? 

João Fernandes: Our vision has always been to create an integrated ecosystem of solutions that encompass different areas of marketing, creativity, and technology. The acquisition of North Brands and Digital Terroirs, for example, allows us to strengthen our presence in premium and niche markets in the wine sector, while the merger with Prime Layer brings essential technological know-how to expand our digital capabilities. These strategic partnerships ensure solid and sustainable growth for the group. 

Bruno Claro, CEO of North Brands: North Brands has always aimed to create authentic and impactful brand experiences, focused on differentiation and innovation. Integrating into FA Group gives us the opportunity to expand our vision and further enhance the creativity and effectiveness of our projects. 

Ricardo Barrelas, CEO of Digital Terroirs: Digital Terroirs has always focused on digital storytelling for premium product brands, especially in the wine and gastronomy sectors. Now, with the support of FA Group, we have the capacity to expand our international presence and offer more robust solutions to our clients. 

Paulo Caridade, CEO of Prime Layer: Prime Layer has always invested in technological innovation and customized digital solutions. By merging with FA Group, we can integrate advanced technology with creative strategies to deliver more efficient and impactful campaigns. 

IPBN: What are the vertical sectors in which FA Group aims to invest? 

João Fernandes: Our goal is to diversify our operations in sectors that directly benefit from our experience and expertise. Among them, we highlight tourism and hospitality, technology, premium wine and gastronomy, e-commerce, and corporate events. Each FA Group unit is prepared to offer tailored solutions for these segments, ensuring that our clients achieve maximum return on investment. 

IPBN: With this expansion, how is the team and organizational structure being strengthened? João Fernandes: In this new phase, we have significantly strengthened our team by integrating highly qualified and experienced talent from the acquired companies and the market. Additionally, we have optimized our internal structure to ensure a more efficient and collaborative workflow among the different units of the group. This new dynamic allows us to respond more agilely and innovatively to our clients' needs. 

IPBN: How do you see the impact of this expansion on FA Group's positioning in the national and international markets? 

João Fernandes: We are stronger than ever. We believe that this evolution positions us as a key player both in Portugal and in the international market. With the integration of new areas of expertise and the strengthening of our technological and creative capabilities, we can offer top-quality solutions to an even broader range of clients. Moreover, this change facilitates our entry into new strategic markets such as Spain and Ireland. 

IPBN: Opening a representative office in Madrid is part of this international strategy. What are the expectations for this new step? 

João Fernandes: Madrid is one of the most dynamic business hubs in Europe and a key market for us. We already work with Spanish clients such as Andamur, Appolo Kids, and NextNorth, and having a physical presence will allow us to be closer to our international clients and potential strategic partners. We believe this expansion will be essential for driving our growth in the Iberian Peninsula and further strengthening our brand abroad. 

IPBN: And in the Irish market, how do you plan to grow? 

João Fernandes: Ireland is a very promising market for us, especially due to our connection with IPBN and the opportunity to develop strategic partnerships with local companies. We believe we can bring our innovative approach to marketing and digital to this market, offering unique solutions and building lasting relationships with Irish clients and partners. 

IPBN: Finally, what are the next steps for FA Group? 

João Fernandes: We will continue to train, innovate, and invest in the sustainable growth of the group. The focus now is on consolidating our structure, expanding our services, and building new strategic partnerships. We want to be a global reference in marketing, creativity, and technology solutions, always maintaining our essence and commitment to excellence. 

FA Group is entering a new era, reinforcing its position as one of the most innovative and comprehensive groups in the industry. With sustained growth, a team of specialists, and a well-defined strategic vision, the future looks exciting for the company and its clients. If you're keen to get in touch with João, you can reach him at +351 919 265 232 or you can ask Arnold Delville, General Manager of the IPBN, for a direct introduction.