As independent studios move toward more flexible, collaborative, tech-enabled structures, TOML's model offers one example of how an open, adaptive, talent-first approach can take shape in practice. As big networks merge and chase scale, independent studios are taking a different path, moving faster, staying closer to culture, and producing work that feels more intentional. Many are founded by senior talent leaving holding companies in search of autonomy and healthier ways of working.
Agencyland has long been thought of as a two-tier system. Over here, you have your 'networks,' typified by giant global holding companies such as WPP and its myriad sub-brands. And over there, you have 'independents' (the very best of which you'll find in our Indie Agency 100 list): shops with no links to those networks, owned by themselves or their founders and calling their own shots.
Generative AI tools promise enormous economies of scale for small creative agency teams. Good news for independent agencies struggling to find some breathing room on the ever-squeezed bottom line - until clients begin expecting those savings to be passed along to them.
