Ex-Mars United leaders launch eFlare Commerce, The Future Commerce Agency

Former Mars United Commerce Head of Search Stephanie Chirkoff has launched eFlare Commerce, The Future Commerce Agency built on a simple belief: the brands that win tomorrow will be the ones connecting retail, content and technology today.

eFlare Commerce helps brands perform where shoppers make decisions across retail media, social commerce, the digital shelf and emerging AI-driven discovery.

Since launching in mid-2025, the agency has been retained on 25 brands across FMCG, consumer goods and home appliances. Its roster includes George Weston Foods, Newell Brands, Fonterra and Openway Food. The agency’s fast growth reflects the rising demand for commerce expertise that goes beyond traditional media or e-commerce services, blending retail performance, social influence and AI discovery into one connected approach.

Says Stephanie Chirkoff, Managing Director and Founder of eFlare Commerce: “We built eFlare Commerce to help brands prepare for what’s next. Retail media, social commerce, and AI search are converging fast. Our goal is to give brands a retail centric approach that turns visibility into conversion, across every retailer and platform.”

Joining Chirkoff is David Simes in the role of Head of Content & Social Commerce.

Simes, also former-Mars United Commerce, where he led content development across major retail and brand campaigns, also produced viral social content for Australian comedian Jimmy Rees OAM, reaching millions of viewers.

Says Simes: “I’m excited to join eFlare Commerce, to help shape what’s next for commerce. I’ve seen how powerful retail and content can be when they work together. eFlare Commerce is about connecting those worlds across social and eCommerce.”

“Working with the team at eFlare Commerce is like a breath of fresh air. We value their specialist expertise in ever-evolving algorithms, winning digital strategies and their ability to foster strong partnerships with our retail customers. Thanks to this partnership, we’re seeing growth in both market share and online sales,” says Angela Craven, Head of Category & Shopper Marketing, Tip Top (George Weston Foods).

“eFlare have transformed our approach to retail search, driving significant eCom growth across our range. Steph’s expertise and deep industry knowledge and understanding is invaluable.  eFlare understand our business, proactively manage and adapt the programme in line with the evolving digital landscape,” says Kate Ireland, Head of Shopper & Digital, Fonterra.

“What stands out about working with eFlare Commerce is their depth of understanding across the retail landscape. Their local insight and hands-on approach have been instrumental in helping us deliver strong results. Steph’s team has become an indispensable extension of the Newell team,” says Brendan Kelly, National Business Manager eCommerce, Newell Brands.