Harper+Scott

Harper+Scott operates as a creative agency focused on designing and manufacturing branded merchandise and private label goods for a high-caliber clientele that includes Fortune 500 companies. Founded in 2014 by Michael Scott Cohen and Jon Alagem, the company was established with the goal of transforming the promotional products landscape through enhanced speed, transparency, and creativity. Both founders shared a background in real estate at Newmark Grubb Knight Frank before identifying a gap in the market for a more agency-like, consultative approach to branded merchandise.

Headquartered in New York City and with operations in Guangzhou, China, the firm manages the entire product lifecycle, from initial design and sourcing to manufacturing and delivery. This end-to-end control allows them to handle complex logistical challenges for their clients. The business generates revenue by creating custom products for various marketing and retail needs, such as gifts-with-purchase, influencer marketing kits, employee gifts, and bespoke retail product lines. They serve major international brands like Sephora, L'Oréal, Nike, Carnival Cruise Line, and Chick-fil-A.

The company's service model is built on acting as a strategic partner rather than just a vendor, providing in-house design and streamlined supply chain management. A significant milestone was achieved in 2019 when Harper+Scott secured its first investment round, which valued the agency at approximately $50 million and included participation from notable investors like the former CEO of Coach. Further demonstrating its forward-looking approach, the company launched H+S META in 2022, a division dedicated to creating digital merchandise and virtual experiences in the metaverse. The company is a certified B Corporation, reflecting a commitment to high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency in its operations and supply chain.

Keywords: branded merchandise, creative agency, private label goods, product design, supply chain management, manufacturing, corporate gifting, promotional products, influencer mailers, customer experience, B Corporation, retail products, Michael Scott Cohen, Jon Alagem, Fortune 500 clients, brand experiences, custom retail, sustainable merchandise, marketing agency, H+S META