Leeds-headquartered Search Laboratory, which also has offices in London, New York and Austin, has been acquired by Havas Group to strengthen its data and digital marketing offering.
The digital agency, which was founded in 2005, will be integrated into Havas Media Group, becoming a core part of the offering. It will continue to be led by its current management team, with CEO Chris Attewell (pictured) and Founder and Executive Chairman Ian Harris remaining in post.
Search Laboratory has 150 staff working across its four international offices and works with clients including Wren Kitchens and First.
Chris Attewell, CEO of Search Laboratory, said: “We feel like we have found a natural new home with Havas Media Group. Our visions and ethos are very much aligned, and service offerings complement each other well.”
The move also gives Havas Group the opportunity to reach a pool of talent outside its current offices in Manchester and London.
“The acquisition of Search Laboratory comes at a time where Havas Media Group is experiencing an impressive period of growth and momentum,” added Yannick Bolloré, Chairman and CEO of Havas Group.
“Search Laboratory’s sophisticated expertise in data and analytics perfectly complements our own to create an enhanced offering that will help brands to activate their data in more meaningful ways.”
Patrick Affleck, CEO, Havas Media Group UK & Ireland, also said: “With a highly experienced senior team and a diverse client base spanning several verticals, Search Laboratory represents an exciting growth opportunity for Havas Media Group in the UK and internationally.”
