Leeds digital agency expands with third acquisition of the year

A Leeds-based digital marketing agency has announced its third acquisition of the year as the company continues with its plans for growth.

Ascensor Digital Agency, established in 2007, has purchased Blue Mantis for an undisclosed sum, securing its clients and the employees.

The company has achieved turnover growth of more than 50 per cent in 2020 and 2019, with its target for 2021 being £3m.

The acquisition of Blue Mantis brings the total headcount at Ascensor to 36 employees.

Andrew Firth, managing director at Ascensor, said: “This is a strategic opportunity to accelerate the growth of Ascensor, safeguard jobs and provide clients with continuity of service.

“The purchase is a perfect fit for Ascensor. Blue Mantis have been established for 11 years, with a leading position as a developer of bespoke web software for automotive, retail and professional services clients.

“This deal complements our existing digital transformation activities for businesses in these sectors, and adds a raft of like-minded talent to our team.”

He added: “This latest acquisition demonstrates our continued appetite for growth and acquiring businesses which provide a strong strategic fit with our plans, and helps us to continue to grow our highly talented team.”

Martyn Lee, director, Blue Mantis, said: ‘This is a very exciting time for my colleagues and I. Ascensor are well established and we’ve admired their work from afar.

“Becoming part of their journey and bringing our expertise and long-established clients with us creates the perfect win-win situation.”