New digital marketing agency given cash to grow

A DIGITAL marketing start-up has received new investment to further its growth plans.

11:FiftyNine, which was established in 2016 by Saul Johnstone and Jordan Phillips, has secured backing from the directors of multi-disciplinary consultancy HLN Group in a bid to establish itself as a leading digital marketing agency.

The deal, for an undisclosed sum, was structured and advised by Tom O’Brien of Verde Corporate Finance and has achieved early success in contracts with companies such as Cardiff International Airport.

The association with HLN gives 11:FiftyNine access to funding, work space in Cardiff and a support network designed to nurture the company’s directors and facilitate rapid expansion.

Over the next few months, the fledgling agency is looking to recruit extra staff to cope with demand.

It is already benefiting from the relationship by tapping into HLN’s contacts outside of Wales, particularly in London, where HLN Group also has offices.

Co-director Mr Johnstone said: “When we initially set up, we took things slow and stuck to our game plan, that of quality over quantity.

“While Jordan and I are ambitious we’re also realists and we’re aware of how tough it is to break through. However, slowly and surely we developed our contact base and landed a series of contracts in the space of a few short months.”

Mr Johnstone added: “We’re fortunate that the directors of HLN have seen the potential in our offering and we’re grateful for their support. With their support and contacts, there is huge potential for us, not only in Wales but further afield.”

HLN Group is a multi-disciplinary design consultancy formed in 2009. Having acquired five businesses in the past eight years with support from Finance Wales, this is its first foray into other professional service providers.

Managing director David Callaghan said: “As soon as I met Jordan and Saul, I was impressed with their knowledge, passion and drive.

“While not directly linked to our core offering, we could see value in backing their burgeoning venture. We share the same views on the future of the industry and after employing their services, it seemed like a natural progression.

“Their approach to digital marketing is innovative and refreshing, something I’m keen to champion in the months ahead.”