lūquire has been named one of Ad Age’s Best Places to Work for 2026, earning a No. 17 ranking among companies with fewer than 150 employees. As an independent, family-owned agency founded in Charlotte, this recognition reflects the values, people and practices that have shaped lūquire for more than 40 years.

Ad Age’s annual list highlights workplaces where culture, employee experience, and long-term thinking are central to how the business operates.

The key reasons for this recognition include:

A Values-Led Culture Rooted in Kindor®

At the heart of lūquire’s culture is Kindor®, our guiding ethos that blends kindness and candor. Kindor® shows up in everyday interactions, from feedback and collaboration to leadership and decision-making, creating an environment where people are encouraged to be honest, supportive and fully themselves at work.

Strong Retention and Long-Term Growth

lūquire’s 96% employee retention rate reflects a workplace where people choose to stay, grow, and build long careers. This stability is heavily tied to shared values, thoughtful policies and a culture that prioritizes authenticity and trust. Many team members have been with the agency for years—even decades—building knowledge and momentum instead of turnover.

Diverse Perspectives That Shape the Culture

Also recognized was lūquire’s commitment to diversity of thought and experience. The agency hires for culture add, not culture fit, intentionally seeking new perspectives that make both the work and the workplace stronger.

A Flexible, Human-Centered Workplace

lūquire’s remote-first, hybrid model supports flexibility while maintaining strong connections across the team. Regular in-person gatherings, including an all-agency week, help reinforce relationships, shared purpose and collaboration across locations.

Living the Values Beyond the Office

The agency extends its values into the community through volunteerism, pro bono work, nonprofit partnerships, and support for future talent through programs like its FŪSE internship. Culture isn’t confined to the workplace—it’s something the team practices together, on purpose.

More than a ranking, this recognition affirms that lūquire’s greatest advantage has always been its people—and the culture they’ve built together.

Read the full article in Ad Age or download the PDF.