Jellyfish signs deal with French group for global push

rob pierreJellyfish, the digital agency which earlier this year swallowed up former Callcredit shop Lattitude, has signed an investment deal with France’s Fimalac group as part of an ambitious expansion strategy.

Set up in the UK in 2005, Jellyfish has offices in London, Reigate and Brighton, as well as 18 offices worldwide and 780 staff.

It is officially accredited as one of Google’s Marketing Partners and its clients include Uber, eBay, Disney, Spotify, Nestlé, Ford, Aviva and Asos.

As part of the deal, Jellyfish will merge with Fimalac-owned data-driven agency Tradelab, which was founded in 2011 and has about 300 staff.  Its clients include Orange, La Poste, Carrefour and Allianz Travel.

The new business will combine Jellyfish’s integrated offering, which blends data, creative and media buying, with Tradelab’s data-driven tech expertise. It is claimed that the deal will value the new enlarged Jellyfish at about £500m.

Jellyfish chief executive Rob Pierre said: “Today’s brands need digital partners who are able to offer capabilities that go beyond the traditional agency model. Building a digital business that is fit for the 21st century means adding technology, consultancy and training to agency services and, on top of this, delivering them at scale.

“The synergies we felt with Tradelab and the shared goal of building a world-leading digital offering made this an ideal fit for our business. The investment and subsequent expansion will enable us to continue building our global footprint as we bring the Jellyfish brand to all four corners of the world.”

Fimalac boss Marc Ladreit de Lacharrière added: “Fimalac’s build-up strategy has proven highly successful in creating global leaders in financial ratings, digital media and production fields. Today, I am very proud to help Jellyfish and Tradelab join forces to build a new global leader with a unique set of expertise and talents, helping brands navigate technology and data.”

GP Bullhound advised Jellyfish on the sale.

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