Roadside media operator 75Media has secured a seven-figure investment to accelerate its technological developments and support its international growth.
The funding comes from NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance, which is managed by Mercia Ventures as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).
The Leeds-based MediaTech says the investment will also help to cement its position as a tech-driven leader in the outdoor advertising industry.
The company launched just five years ago with two employees but has now grown to become the number two market leader for large format roadside billboard sites in the country and number six in the outdoor advertising market overall.
Revenues rose by 454% in the 12 months to the end of 2024 and employee headcount has more than doubled in that time, now standing at 56.
The news also comes fresh off the back of the firm’s acquisition of London-based iQ OOH in January 2024 and, following further acquisitions, it now has over 1,200 classic and digital billboard sites across the UK.
Along with the move, a number of leadership team changes have taken place.
To reflect the company’s recent growth, Paul Inman, previously 75Media’s managing director, will transition to CEO.
Joel Turner, who joined the company in 2023 as commercial director, will also change roles and assume the position of managing director and sales director Joe Lawson will move into the role of commercial director.
“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 – both in terms of our team, and the real audiences we need to deliver for our clients,” said new CEO Inman.
“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.
“This partnership allows us to move forward with even greater ambition, pioneering technologies that will set new standards in the outdoor advertising space.”
Chris Borrett, investment director at Mercia Ventures, added: “75Media is one of the fastest-growing businesses in the UK having built a platform that combines capital efficient asset growth with digitally enabled sales channels.
“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.”
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