‘Defining moment’ as 75Media secures funding

A Leeds-based outdoor advertising company is set to expand following seven-figure investment.

75Media has secured funding from NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance to advance its AI platform and billboard optioning and booking, and support its international growth. 

Bosses say the cash is a “defining moment” in 75Media’s journey, representing a “vote of confidence” in its vision, and will enable it to “move forward with even greater ambition”.

They add the investment will also accelerate changes within the leadership team to support its ongoing success, with founder Paul Inman transitioning to chief executive, Joel Turner promoted to managing director and Joe Lawson moving from sales director to commercial director.

Paul said: “This investment is a defining moment for 75Media. 

“Mercia’s support isn’t just about capital; it’s a vote of confidence in our vision to build a tech-enabled outdoor advertising business, which still has people at its heart.]\

“As an industry, we need to be pushing innovation and reaching more people, and that’s what we’re here to do – to shake things up.”

Chris Borrett, investment director at Mercia Ventures, added: “Paul and the team at 75Media are ambitious, passionate, tenacious and highly experienced in the sector. 

“They have the right creativity and drive to disrupt this industry, and Mercia Ventures are excited to partner with them on this journey."

Fundraising support for 75Media was provided by Jonny Sharp and Mick Morris at Cerelo Advisory, with legal advice from Andy Francey and Farrell Tang at Freeths, and Daniel Hayhurst at Brabners for Mercia Ventures.

The £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II, which is operated by the British Business Bank and managed by Mercia Ventures, provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million, and equity investment up to £5 million, to help small and medium-sized businesses.

Lizzy Upton, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, added: “Leeds is fast becoming known for its bright talent across the tech sector, and businesses like 75Media are helping to fuel this growth.”

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