Merkle, the nation’s largest and fastest growing independent customer relationship marketing (CRM) agency, today released its 2010 Performance Profile highlighting significant growth across the entire business. Merkle reported record total revenue of $254 million for 2010, including record revenue for the fourth quarter of 2010 and the company’s highest revenue month in its history in December 2010. The company also experienced more than 20% growth over last year in its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). These results showcase Merkle’s continued success as the leading CRM agency in the market, advising clients on how to better direct their customer marketing strategy and actively manage customer interactions.

In 2010, Merkle continued to help clients understand how a CRM agency can help optimize its marketing performance. This customer-centric approach led Merkle to a record-setting year in revenue and profits. The company recorded year-over-year growth of more than 20% in its marketing technology and analytics businesses and growth of 35% in its consulting business. Merkle also saw double-digit growth across all industries it serves, including 49% growth in retail/catalog, 46% growth in financial services and 53% growth in healthcare. Merkle’s success was also acknowledged by Technology Crossover Ventures (TCV) through their minority investment which continues to position Merkle as the leader in Integrated Customer Marketing™.

Merkle’s unprecedented performance in 2010 and strong leadership position as a CRM agency puts it on a trajectory to deliver revenue in excess of $300 million in 2011. The shift to customer strategy as a business strategy and a greater appetite for marketing accountability will propel Merkle’s growth over the next year. Additionally, current micro and macro trends in the digitalization and fragmentation of media will continue to fuel Merkle’s investment in CRM consulting, digital capabilities and global expansion in support of its U.S. multinational clients.

“Our team has had a remarkable year in 2010. I believe the outstanding accomplishments we have realized with our clients this year lay the foundation for another great performance in 2011,” said Merkle Chairman and CEO, David Williams. “Great companies are not built overnight; they are built by people who have a common dream and the determination to stick with it long enough to see it through. I am proud that we are that company and that we have every reason to be excited about our future.”