Digital agency signs up for aTasty acquisition
ASOUTH Tyneside digital agency has been snapped up by a global tech specialist for an undisclosed sum.
Hebburn-based Beyond Digital Solutions has been acquired by ZetaDisplay, a digital signage group based in Malmo, Sweden, which has operations in eight European countries as well as the US.
The North East firm offers digital signage systems, including content design, software, hardware and ongoing support from its base in Monkton Business Park, working with companies in the automotive, local government, transport, industrial, hospitality and retail sectors.
It counts firms and organisations such as Tortilla, Lotus, Jaguar Land Rover, the Port of Tyne, Swissport and the National Health Service as clients, and has worked with North East food-on-the-go firm Greggs for more than 10 years.
The company, led by managing director Louise Richley, has a team of around 22 staff according to its latest accounts, including designers, developers, strategists and digital experts.
Beyond Digital Solutions was heavily involved in the inspired linkup between Greggs and Primark that led to the opening of the first Tasty by Greggs cafe, in the Primark’s store in Birmingham two years ago.
Since then, a number of further Tasty by Greggs cafes have opened, including in the retailer’s store in Newcastle’s Northumberland Street.
Regional law firm for business Muckle and Cavu Corporate Finance advised Beyond Digital Solutions on its sale.
ZetaDisplay said: “The acquisition is a step for ZetaDisplay in further expanding its European market presence by access to the UK market.
“This acquisition will be accretive to group Ebitda and was fully funded by equity from ZetaDisplay’s owner, Hanover Investors.”
Ms Richley was advised by associate solicitor Sara Worsick and solicitor Josh Campbell from Muckle, along with Sahil Nayyar, director at Cavu Corporate Finance.
She said: “Sara, Josh and Sahil have been instrumental in achieving this deal, providing insight and strategic guidance at each turn. Both Muckle and Cavu were ultra-responsive, diligent and focused, constantly navigating towards the end goal.
“Their enthusiastic approach was both assuring and relentless. I felt professionally guided and supported throughout.”
Ms Worsick said: “It has been great to work with Louise over the years as her business developed and continued to grow from strength to strength. This transaction is a real credit to her and the team she has around her. Her positivity and enthusiasm to develop the business shine through, and I wish her and the business the very best in what I am sure will be an exciting future.”
Mr Nayyar said: “We are delighted to have advised on this significant transaction and to have delivered an excellent result for Louise.
“Beyond is a leading independent operator in its market segment, and this acquisition marks a new entry into the UK market for the buyer.”