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Strengthens the Group’s technology-led digital capabilities in India

 

Tokyo—July 3, 2026—Hakuhodo Inc., a leading integrated marketing and innovation company headquartered in Tokyo, is pleased to announce that it has acquired a majority stake in Auburn Digital Solutions Private Limited (Auburn), an independent integrated digital agency headquartered in Mumbai, India, through its wholly owned subsidiary AdGlobal360 India Private Limited (AGL).

The strategic partnership marks an important milestone in Hakuhodo’s global digital growth strategy, strengthening its ability to deliver technology-enabled, data-driven marketing solutions to clients in India and other high-growth international markets.

Founded in 2013, Auburn has emerged as a leading independent digital marketing company in India, providing one-stop integrated solutions across performance marketing, digital media operations, SEO, social media marketing, creative production, and technology solutions.

India represents one of the world’s fastest-growing digital economies, driven by increasing technology adoption, changing behavior among sei-katsu-sha (our term for the holistic person), and significant investments in digital transformation. Within this market environment, Auburn has built its unique digital response capabilities, supporting clients across India, UAE and Singapore to achieve measurable growth. By combining Hakuhodo’s global marketing know-how based on Sei-katsu-sha Centric Mindset (people-first mindset), AGL’s digital transformation expertise, and Auburn’s regional digital capabilities, the partnership will comprehensively provide clients in these three markets with sophisticated capabilities, from data-driven marketing to technology-driven business solutions.

Ashish K Tripathi, Managing Director, Auburn Digital Solutions, said:
“Joining the Hakuhodo Group marks a defining milestone in Auburn’s journey. Hakuhodo’s global legacy, deep understanding of sei-katsu-sha, and commitment to innovation provide an exceptional foundation for our next phase of growth.”

Harsh S Kedia, CEO, Auburn Digital Solutions, said:
“Digital transformation in the era of automation and AI will play a crucial role in future business growth plans for the organization. We aim to fulfill growing market demand with this handshake.”

Akihiko Imai, Director & Senior Corporate Officer, Hakuhodo Inc., and President, Hakuhodo International, said:
“In India, a digital economy that is evolving at breakneck speed, Auburn has built a solid track record and a robust foundation. Their exceptional digital expertise and sharp insight into changing sei-katsu-sha behavior resonate deeply with the Hakuhodo Group’s vision to be a Sei-katsu-sha Value Design Company. This strategic partnership marks the next stage in the evolution of our data-driven marketing. By integrating technology with a deep understanding of sei-katsu-sha, we are confident in our ability to provide new value and drive business growth for our clients in this market.”

Overview of Auburn Digital Solutions

Name: Auburn Digital Solutions Private Limited
Headquarters: Mumbai, India
Established: 2013
Offices: India, UAE, Singapore
Leadership: Ashish K. Tripathi (Managing Director), Harsh S. Kedia (Chief Executive Officer), Kishore Babu Pendyala (Chief Operating Officer)
Employees: Approx. 300 (as of April 2026)
Business content: An integrated digital marketing company that provides end-to-end digital solutions including performance marketing, digital media operations, SEO, social media marketing, creative production and technology solutions.

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