Celebrating 40 Years of Positively Engaging Marketing
In 2025, we proudly celebrate 40 years of AFFIRM Agency—a journey filled with creativity, innovation, and a deep commitment to making a positive difference. What began in 1985 with founder Jim Staples leaving his job as an ad sales rep at the old Milwaukee Journal and starting an agency known as Staples Marketing with one client, Amato Oldsmobile, has transformed into AFFIRM, a full-service advertising agency known for our specialization in behavior change marketing and our dedication to serving clients across several industries, including transportation, government, manufacturing, retail, automotive, health care, and higher education.
A Brief Look Back
Staples Marketing started with a vision: to help clients communicate effectively and make meaningful connections. Over the years, our agency grew in size, scope, and reputation, evolving with the times to embrace new technologies and marketing strategies. From traditional print and broadcast campaigns to digital and social media initiatives, AFFIRM has continuously adapted to deliver results-driven marketing solutions. And winning dozens of advertising industry awards along the way!
In 2015, under the leadership of current owner Danny Mager, we rebranded as AFFIRM, reflecting a renewed purpose: to empower clients by following our Core Values to be Always RESPONSIVE, Persuasively CREATIVE, Extremely RELIABLE, Amazingly RESOURCEFUL, Openly COLLABORATIVE, Exceptionally AGILE, Absolutely POSITIVE, and Always FUN to work with. We leaned into behavior change marketing—communicating to people how they can make their lives better—solidifying our role as a trusted marketing partner for public sector organizations, nonprofits, and private sector clients alike.
Introducing our 40th Anniversary Logo
Since the average lifespan of an independently owned small advertising agency in the United States is typically around 5 to 10 years, we’re celebrating our milestone 40th anniversary by unveiling our special AFFIRM Agency 40th anniversary logo. This limited-time design blends the iconic AFFIRM branding with a celebratory twist, symbolizing our growth, resilience, and forward-thinking approach. The logo will be featured on our website, social media, email signatures, and select marketing materials throughout the year, serving as a visual reminder of our agency’s legacy and the bright future ahead.
Thank You for 40 Absolutely Positive Years
We couldn’t have reached our “middle-age” as an agency without the support of our incredible clients, partners, and team members. As we look ahead, our commitment remains unwavering: to create campaigns that inspire, change behaviors for the better, and leave a lasting impact on the clients we serve.
Here’s to the next 40 years of innovation, creativity, and success! Stay tuned for special events, projects, and reflections throughout our anniversary year. Follow us on social media to join the celebration and share your memories with us using #AFFIRM40.
