Shoptimised gains funding to drive growth plans

A marketing agency is set to accelerate its expansion following a funding boost.

Shoptimised, a performance marketing agency founded in 2018, has received a significant investment from LDC, the private equity firm within Lloyds Banking Group.

The agency’s software-as-a-service platform helps retailers and marketing partners enhance online sales, while its latest platform update introduces multi-lingual and enterprise-level functionality alongside improved reporting and services for customers.

Shoptimised, based at Cobalt Business Park, in North Tyneside, has experienced strong growth as demand for optimised e-commerce marketplaces rises.

The firm, founded in 2018, now employs more than 40 staff and serves in excess of 1000 customers across the UK and Europe. 

Bosses say LDC’s investment will enable Shoptimised to drive organic growth while maintaining a focus on customer service and its differentiated product offering. 

They add the deal brings new board members, including LDC investment director Aaron Lawson-Clark and investment manager Peyman Atapour as non-executive directors, alongside Steve Nelson as non-executive chair. 

Brian Lavery, former head of Google Shopping Ads in Europe, will also join as an advisor to support marketplace strategy and enterprise growth.

John Cave, co-founder of Shoptimised, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with LDC to support the future growth of Shoptimised. 

“Our values blend perfectly with theirs and our shared vision of where we can take this business over the next few years is incredibly exciting. 

“It can seem daunting bringing on a new partner, but LDC have been extremely supportive and let us get on with what we do best whilst helping in any and every way that they can.”

LDC has a strong track record in backing technology businesses, having invested over £755 million in fast-growing firms over the last decade, including cloud platform Uinsure and student accommodation advertising platform UniHomes. 

Aaron added: “It’s more important than ever for e-commerce retailers to use the latest technology to enable consumers to find them online and to maximise their share of consumer demand and buying intent. 

“John and the team at Shoptimised have built a platform that services this market perfectly, with software that’s powerful and easy to use, and services that enhance retailer sales performance.

“They’ve also created a culture where talent can thrive and innovation is encouraged and we will do everything we can to maintain that nurturing environment as the company grows. 

“We’re looking forward to working with them to fulfil their ambitions.”

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