NEW YORK — Marketing and communications firm Elmntl has been acquired by Denver’s Iron Horse Venture Group, the first step in a larger plan to expand the marketing and communications firm’s offerings and reach.

Iron Horse managing partner Ron Vernon will be leading Elmntl, which will maintain its name. Former managing partner Onur Kiyak left the firm earlier this year, and now runs his own hospitality marketing agency, Gourmet Marketing.

Marc Liu will retain his position as head of strategy and operations. His responsibilities include working with Iron Horse on future acquisitions that will boost the agency’s capabilities or reach, and leading business development.

In addition, head of communications Romey Louangvilay will continue overseeing the agency’s PR, influencer marketing and social media offerings. He has also been named creative director, as which he’ll oversee Elmntl’s creative services department.

Kiyak, Liu and Louangvilay co-founded the firm in 2016, and owned it until its sale to Iron Horse. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.  In addition to Denver, Elmntl has offices in New York, Dallas, Manila, and Sao Paulo.

Vernon (pictured) said the move is meant to further both companies’ goal of growing the agency — its global footprint, client base, expertise, and talent. The firm currently serves a range of industries including beverage (with clients including Bud Light, Stoli, and Abasolo Whisky), technology (LG Mobile and SkyLabs), sports and entertainment (UFC and Tennessee Titans) and travel and leisure (ASEAN Tourism, Tourism Authority of Thailand in the Americas, and Selina Hotels Chelsea).

Elmntl is the first agency Iron Horse is adding to its portfolio, which currently includes renewable energy, technology, digital analytics and marketing companies.

"We view this transaction as more of a partnership than an acquisition, Elmntl will be the cornerstone to our business," said Vernon. "Elmntl has an excellent leadership team with great marketing expertise, and it will be our focus to help them continue to deliver the best marketing campaigns for our clients."