Jaywing PLC has announced the acquisition of Epiphany Solutions for an initial consideration of £12m in cash with an additional £6m available over the next two years. Ian Marwood of Sentio Partners provided advice to Jaywing on the deal.
Epiphany was founded in 2005 by Shane Quigley and Robin Skidmore and is led by Rob Shaw, all of whom will remain employed in the business going forward. Epiphany specialises in search engine marketing and is one of only thirty UK agencies that have achieved Certified Google Analytics partner status. Its clients include a broad range of blue chip companies such as Virgin Holidays, Tesco, AXA Insurance and Pets at Home. Epiphany has experienced strong growth over the past three years. It reported a pre-tax profit of £1.43 million for the 12 months ended 31 January 2013 and gross assets of Epiphany as at 31 January 2013 were £2.34 million.
The acquisition of Epiphany will strengthen the Company’s performance in search marketing and increase its use of “Big Data” science in powering highly creative multi-channel marketing activities. In combination with its existing businesses, it will materially enhance its already significant north of England operations and provide a London base.
Rob Shaw will continue to head up Epiphany with Robin Skidmore focusing on growing their Social Public Relations proposition, which operates under the Shackleton brand. Shane Quigley will take on a broader product development role for Jaywing, in addition to retaining responsibility for the fledgling Epiphany Australia business.
