Global retail specialist, Outform Valley has taken a 75.10% stake in Leeds’ The Shopper Agency.
It comes following an equity restructure at the group, which employs 250 staff across its offices in North America, China, India, Italy and Israel.
The move sees The Shopper Agency become part of the group in a “unique collaboration.” This will enable both companies to strengthen their global reach and retail solutions.
Outform not only offers shopper insights and retail strategy, but also design and manufacturing for retail fixtures and fittings.
“Outform has made some significant global investments in recent months and we are delighted to embark on a joint strategy and growth plan with The Shopper Agency,” explained James Haggas, managing director of Outform EMEA.
“Together we are seeking to partner with brands who recognise the need for innovation both in the online and physical realms. We can take consumer experience to a whole new level.”
The Shopper Agency was founded 5 years ago and has tripled in size over the last 24 months. It employs 18 people at its Leeds office, which will remain its headquarters, however after the partnership it will also operate from Outform’s Miami and London’s offices.
“This is a very exciting time for The Shopper Agency, at a critical point in our business plan. Integrating with Outform bolsters our existing capabilities and scalability whilst reinforcing plans for growth. It opens huge global opportunities for both teams, allowing us to help more brand and retail owners to future-proof their customer experience,” said Martin Fawcett, founder of The Shopper Agency, who holds a 25% share in the operation.
“Consumers now live and shop in the experience economy – they no longer look to buy just products and services, but seek something more authentic, memorable and shareable. Today, attracting new consumers or keeping existing ones engaged takes us beyond price, convenience and location.”
