SCD Advisory advises Reload on its sale to Hardie Grant Media
Independent publishing and media company Hardie Grant has acquired digital marketing agency Reload Group, which was advised during the deal by M&A boutique SCD Advisory.
Founded in 2006, Brisbane based Reload Group is made up of Reload Media, UK-based e-commerce and retail agency Reload Digital, and digital transformation consulting firm Reload Consulting.
Reload is the fourth agency to join Hardie Grant Media’s marketing network in recent years, following the bolt-ons of production company Sherpa, content agency Heads & Tales and Slattery Media Group.
Hardie Grant Media group managing director Nick Hardie-Grant said: “Solidifying this partnership is extremely exciting for us and will give our clients much easier access to a huge range of digital and performance marketing skills, as well as inject market-leading experience into our broader business.”
Meanwhile, the deal will give Hardie Grant Media access to the markets of Brisbane and London.
Reload Group will continue under the leadership of managing director Craig Somerville, supported by Reload Media managing director Alexandra Gannon, general manager of growth & development Marnie Whitten and Reload Digital general manager Adam Clarke.
“This partnership made a lot of sense for us. Our cultures are aligned, and we have a complementary offering that will benefit clients on both sides greatly. Getting that fit right was incredibly important to us and we’re excited about continuing our growth trajectory as part of Hardie Grant Media,” said Somerville.
Commenting on SCD Advisory’s role in the transaction, Somerville stated: “It’s been a pleasure working with the SCD Advisory team. I’d like to thank them for their advice on this journey which started a few years ago, to the support throughout which resulted in us joining a very culturally aligned business with plenty of opportunities to deliver together in Australia and overseas.”
“We were impressed by the professionalism, expertise and energy exhibited by the SCD Advisory team – and we’re excited for where all that will lead next for Reload Group.”
Pierre Briand, founder of SCD Advisory, added: “We were thrilled by Reload’s impact and achievement on the digital marketing market. We have been delighted to support their shareholders and stakeholders in finding the right strategic and cultural partner. We wish Reload Media and Hardie Grant Media great success in their shared endeavours.”
