Kin + Carta, which now calls itself a global digital transformation consultancy, is back on the acquisition trail after offloading both Edit and Incite with the purchase of Bulgarian software development company Melon Group and its subsidiaries, including Melon Technologies and Frakton.
The deal, which comes shortly after Kin + Carta bought the remaining 50% interest in Chicago-based ecommerce consultancy Loop, is designed to bolster the firm’s pure-play digital transformation capabilities, while expanding its service capabilities and geographic reach.
Melon Group comprises a 300-strong team of web, mobile, and data specialists working across Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Kosovo. It is headquartered in Sofia and led by chief executive Krum Hadzhigeorgiev, with sector experience including medtech, fintech, banking, and human resources.
This move is part of Kin + Carta’s expansion in South Eastern Europe and is designed to complement Kin + Carta Greece, as the company looks to build a new European delivery hub.
The acquisition is subject to clearances from the North Macedonian and Kosovan competition authorities and, once approved is expected to complete in the second quarter of 2022.
Meanwhile, the firm claims that full ownership of Loop strengthens Kin + Carta’s digital commerce capabilities.
Kin + Carta CEO J Schwan (pictured) said: “The acquisitions of Melon Group and Loop mark a significant move in our ambition to scale globally and accelerate our growth. Identifying, acquiring and integrating brilliant new businesses into Kin + Carta broadens our reach and creates opportunities to learn from experts in their craft. In addition, expanding our nearshore production capabilities allow us to serve more clients, creating new jobs both onshore and nearshore.
“Significantly, Melon’s culture aligns with our own mission to build a world that works better for everyone, as we champion responsible business as a core tenant of our strategy.”
Melon CEO Hadzhigeorgiev added: “Joining the Kin + Carta family enables us to make the most of the significant surge in demand for digital transformation as a result of the pandemic. It’s an exciting time for our sector, a time of growth. We’re excited to be part of a global business, one that is as committed as we are to building a world that works better – for everyone.”
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