Leeds-based digital marketing agency Ascensor has revealed their fourth M&A deal in fifteen months, acquiring the assets of Green Gecko Digital, who specialise in search engine optimisation (SEO).
The deal, which is for an undisclosed sum, means that Ascensor will secure Green Gecko Digital clients, and includes the recruitment of two GGD employees.
Ascensor MD Andrew Firth says: “We’re so pleased to have agreed terms for this acquisition. Our marketing retainers are growing exponentially, and quality SEO is in high demand. The deal not only brings new client retainers, but also two experienced SEO executives who will bring our SEO team to five, adding more capacity for our growing client list.”
Andrew adds: “Green Gecko Digital was established in 2018 under the ownership of Marco Sarussi, who is now pursuing other business interests. The firm has grown successfully and is regarded as a leading player in SEO. Their website has ranked at number one for the key search phrase ‘SEO Leeds’ and many other key SEO search terms for over two years.”
Ascensor’s acquisition will include the recruitment of SEO Executives Louise Newton and Ben Schofield.
Andrew Firth comments: “This deal brings new and long-standing SEO and website clients, the top-ranking lead generation website and most importantly it allows Ascensor to grow our SEO team with proven skills.
“This recruitment will ensure that clients receive continuity of service and support, and will provide us with some additional capacity to service our growing retainers.”
This deal marks Ascensor’s fourth asset and client purchase in fifteen months, and their second in the space of just two months. They recently purchased Blue Mantis and in 2020 bought web design and app development business Webposse, and web hosting firm ClaretMedia LLP.
Andrew Firth says: “Our purchase of Green Gecko Digital assets and clients marks a further milestone in the strategic growth of Ascensor. It will strengthen our existing SEO team and add to our broad client list.”
“We adopt a data driven approach to marketing and website development, which is delivering exceptional returns for our clients. It’s important that we continue to recruit experienced team members to ensure we maintain our highest quality standards”.
Established in 2007, Ascensor has demonstrated rapid growth in recent years, with turnover improving by more than 50% in 2020 as well as 2019. Their target for 2021 is £3.0M. The purchase of Green Gecko Digital takes the team at Ascensor to 38 with other roles also being advertised.
Ascensor recently moved to state-of-the-art offices in Leeds, including a dedicated events space for business and community partners. The team recently achieved Best Large Digital Agency of the Year in the Northern Digital Awards and received ISO27001 information security accreditation.
