Independent list · re-checked September 28, 2026 · published by Primortul LLC

Lafayette American

Lafayette American is an independent creative agency launched in Detroit in March 2018 by former Ford global chief creative officer Toby Barlow and four co-founders. It offers creative, design, strategy, content, social and media, and its client roster includes Ford, General Motors, Carhartt, Netflix and Detroit City FC. The agency states it is not backed by a holding company or private equity. Nobody pays to be ranked.

Why it’s hereA Detroit independent built by a former Ford creative chief that now works for Ford, GM, Carhartt and Netflix. Number 12 of the marketing agencies in the Midwest.

Who leads itToby Barlow, CEO, Chief Creative Officer.

Work they can showFord. Ads showing BlueCruise hands-free driving technology.

Estimated cost

Estimated: $8,000–$25,000/mo, typical for Midwest marketing retainers; not a quote.

Typical industry estimate, not a quote from any firm on this list.

A fit forAutomotive, cultural and consumer brands that want advertising, brand design and social content from a Detroit agency founded in 2018 with national clients such as Ford.

lafayetteamerican.com ↗Get matched — free, no obligation
Based in
Detroit, MI
Founded
2018
Led by
Toby Barlow, CEO, Chief Creative Officer
Known for
creative · design · content · automotive · cultural institutions
Named clients
Ford, General Motors, Carhartt, Amazon, Chewy, Netflix, Spotify, Mazda, Detroit City FC, Toledo Museum of Art
Best for
Automotive, cultural and consumer brands that want advertising, brand design and social content from a Detroit agency founded in 2018 with national clients such as Ford.
Selected work
  • Ford. Ads showing BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. source ↗
Recognition
Estimated cost

Estimated: $8,000–$25,000/mo, typical for Midwest marketing retainers; not a quote.

Typical industry estimate, not a quote from any firm on this list.

Office
5000 Grand River Ave. · Detroit, MI · 48208 · 313-246-2320
Lafayette American homepage, captured September 28, 2026
lafayetteamerican.com · homepage on September 28, 2026

Sources lafayetteamerican.com, crainsdetroit.com, adage.com · LinkedIn ↗

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