Xponent21 Merges with dBArcade, Expands Video Capabilities to Accelerate Content Ecosystem Strategy and Drive Growth for Clients

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Will Melton
CEO, Xponent21
wmelton@xponent21.com
(804) 205-9019 x700

Xponent21 Merges with dBArcade, Expands Video Capabilities to Accelerate Content Ecosystem Strategy and Drive Growth for Clients

Richmond, VA — March 25, 2025 — Richmond-based digital marketing agency Xponent21, now in its 10th year of business, has merged with local video production studio dBArcade. The merger strengthens Xponent21’s in-house video capabilities while deepening its commitment to building strategic content ecosystems for growth-focused clients. The combined team will operate under the Xponent21 brand, with dBArcade’s services and client portfolio now fully integrated into the agency.

As part of the merger, dBArcade founder Emmanuel Pezoa has joined Xponent21 as Executive Producer, Brand Video. He will lead video production across client campaigns and original content projects, including work on Channel RVA, Xponent21’s in-house storytelling initiative spotlighting Richmond’s people, culture, and community.

“We’ve worked with dBArcade on countless projects over the years—for our clients, for Richmond Water, for the America’s Healthiest City initiative, and even for political campaigns,” said Will Melton, CEO of Xponent21. “This is a very natural evolution for us. Emmanuel’s talent is exceptional, and bringing him into the fold strengthens the work we’re already doing across content, SEO, and digital strategy. Video lets us amplify our clients’ authority, extend their reach, and show up in the places their prospects are paying attention.”

The merger supports Xponent21’s rollout of a video-first retainer program designed to help brands adapt to a changing content landscape. As search platforms prioritize video and AI-driven search tools reshape how users find and evaluate information, video has emerged as a critical format for visibility, trust-building, and conversion.

“This partnership gives me the opportunity to go beyond the lens,” said Emmanuel Pezoa, founder of dBArcade and now Executive Producer, Brand Video at Xponent21. “It’s about more than beautiful visuals. It’s about helping clients develop a content system that works—from video production to strategy to delivery. That’s where we make the real impact.”

Pezoa brings more than a decade of experience producing cinematic, story-driven content and he’s been focused on delivering that for Richmond-area brands since 2020. At Xponent21, his work will align with a broader strategy that connects video to high-performing SEO, blogs, FAQs, social content, and lead-nurture systems.

With the agency’s new offering, a single shoot becomes a source of multi-channel content. Through AI-enhanced workflows, that video is transformed into blog articles, social cutdowns, thought leadership clips, and other key touchpoints across the customer journey—all optimized for visibility and lead generation.

“Video isn’t the hero. It’s the accelerant,” added Melton. “It fuels every other tactic we use to help businesses grow.”

The merger also coincides with Xponent21’s move into a new office at Common House Richmond, a significant milestone for the company after nearly a decade of operating remotely. The space supports in-person collaboration, client production, and the next stage of the company’s growth.

“This is a transformational year for us,” Melton said. “We’ve invested in the talent, space, and technology to help our clients thrive in this new era of digital marketing. I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead.”

The combined team will also enhance the development of Channel RVA, Xponent21’s original content platform dedicated to highlighting stories from across Richmond. With in-house creative, strategic, and editorial talent now under one roof, the platform is poised to grow into a meaningful space for brand-supported storytelling and community media.

About Xponent21

Xponent21 is a digital marketing and experience agency headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. The agency helps growth-focused businesses build visibility and drive revenue through integrated content systems that include SEO strategy, AI optimization, and branded video. In 2025, Xponent21 celebrates 10 years of service, expansion, and innovation—now operating from its new office in the heart of the city at Common House Richmond.

About dBArcade

Founded by Emmanuel Pezoa in 2014, dBArcade was a Richmond-based video production studio known for its cinematic storytelling and work with businesses and organizations across a wide range of industries. As of 2025, dBArcade is now operating as part of Xponent21.