Selectscience’s deal will aid ‘tremendous’ growth
Pioneering digital publisher Selectscience has secured significant private equity investment and appointed a new chief executive, Kerry Parker.
From its HQ in Bath, Selectscience provides vital online information to scientists around the world at the forefront of cancer research, the fight against Covid-19 and many other critical scientific fields.
After launching a series of virtual events and other online tools designed to support the industry and ensure science communication continues through the pandemic, the company has been having its best year on record, building a global audience of more than 5 million scientists.
Building on this period of exceptional growth, in a statement of further intent the company has announced Vespa Capital as new investment partners.
Kerry said: “I am delighted to be working alongside our management team and Vespa Capital partners in order to amplify our plans, whilst continuing with our overarching mission to make the world a healthier place.
“This news follows a tremendous 24 months of growth which has seen a 150 per cent increase in our scientific audience reach, 280 per cent more virtual event and webinar engagement, as well as a 140 per cent increase in manufacturer content marketing.”
Selectscience was founded in 1998 by Arif Butt and Louise Butt, with a vision to introduce peer-topeer reviews and digital marketing services into the scientific industry.
Renowned for its innovation, the business has subsequently established
an enviable market position, serving high-quality digital marketing solutions to the industry, including the world’s top 10 manufacturers of scientific laboratory equipment. It has developed an extensive and expanding global audience of loyal members, who are attracted to the company’s engaging digital content such as The Scientists’ Channel, virtual events, webinars and e-books.
Arif and Louise said: “We are delighted to announce this important news. Kerry Parker has already
been leading the impressive growth alongside our management team, and, partnering with the impressive private equity company Vespa Capital, we are excited to see immense further growth of the company.
“In retiring our current positions, we are pleased to continue to support Selectscience’s success as shareholders and ambassadors.”
Matt Lyons, partner at Vespa Capital, said: “We’re delighted to join Selectscience as investment partners and are excited by the
opportunity to work with Kerry and the team as they continue to build a world-class digital publishing platform servicing an attractive and niche customer group.
“The Vespa Capital portfolio already includes businesses in the pharmaceutical, digital and product reviews industries, including those supporting the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.”
RSM, Osborne Clarke, Deloitte, BDO, Plural, DLA Piper, Intuitus and Lockton provided advisory services to facilitate the deal.