www.acquisition-international.com • Issue 9 2022 Strive, Committed, Synchronised, Inspired Established in 1957 as Qatar’s first registered company, Milaha began its journey as a shipping agency, and it strategically developed over the next six decades to become one of the largest maritime and logistics service providers in the region. Focused on providing integrated transport and supply chain solutions, Milaha boasts an expanded modern fleet of vessels, state-of-the-art equipment, modern technologies, dedicated staff, and worldclass partners. Acquisition International magazine has recognised Milaha’s long-standing success by naming it Most Outstanding Maritime & Logistics Company 2022 – Qatar.
2 Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 From our Editor Welcome to the September edition of Acquisition International magazine, bringing you the latest news, features, and success stories from businesses all over the world. August gave us motivation, inspiration, and great fulfilment as the passing days showed us more sunshine and plans coming into fruition. This can be said for all of the businesses featured in this issue. As they continue to expand, transmogrify, and cooperate, they have become extremely strong forces in their industries. Now, with autumn swiftly approaching, we see more projects being set up with the goal to achieve bigger and better results than before. It is with great pleasure and pride that we present this myriad of companies succeeding with tenacity behind them. Our cover, Milaha, has become a giant in its industry. As Most Outstanding Maritime & Logistics Company 2022 – Qatar, Milaha delivers environmentally friendly, sustainable, and innovative solutions via digital means. With its core values to strive, be committed, synchronised, and inspired, Milaha offers its services in an unparalleled fashion. Its digital platforms improve business operations and show us a new way of thinking, applying technology, and completing tasks. Here at Acquisition International we wish you a brilliant month ahead and we look forward to welcoming you back soon. Sofi Bajor - Editor Contents 4 News 6 Strive, Committed, Synchronised, Inspired Milaha 7 Best Faith-Based Humanitarian Aid NPO - Canada Global Aid Network (GAiN) 8 Best Accountancy & Business Consulting Partner (London): Mara Venieri UK Business Consulting 9 From Wisconsin to the World Stage Topper Industrial 10 A True Insight Into Fashion Consumer Trends FashWire 13 An Encounter of Disruptors SYMMETRIA® 13 Changing Times Web Welder LLC No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. Editorial Team Sif Brookes, Senior Editor Sofi Bajor, Editor Daniel Long, Senior Writer Rebecca Scotland, Senior Writer Gabriel Muers, Writer Amelia Walker, Writer Dontae Jones, Writer Design Team Daniela Levinte, Graphic Designer Lauren Baldwin, Junior Graphic Designer 14 The Future of Sustainable Energy Starts Here KEW Technology 16 The Perfect Gift Giftable.com 17 Most Innovative Food Production Businesswoman 2022: Karen McQuade The UK Foodhall Ltd 18 Leading Litigator Secures Success Brower Law Group 19 Best International Investment Management Firm 2022 - London Platinum Capital Management Limited 20 Best Clear Aligner Products Developer 2022 - California OrthoFX 22 Reimagining Cybersecurity Resecurity 23 Part Of The Team HIVE LEGAL 24 Winners’ Listing
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4 Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 News: from around the world Propel Finance completes its first private securitisation as part of a £500 million financing round Propel Finance, the fastest growing asset finance lender in the UK, today announces its first private securitisation, as part of a new c. £500 million financing round. Propel Finance is expanding and diversifying its funding base to support its continuing growth and support for UK SMEs, following multiple initial funding rounds with the British Business Bank. Citi has structured a £275 million private securitisation facility, and Quilam Capital has provided an additional £35 million mezzanine and working capital facility, to enable the partial refinance of Propel’s existing British Business Bank ENABLE funding facility and support further growth. The financing round supports Propel’s emergence as a leading force in asset finance, following its landmark strategic partnerships with Barclays Business Bank, prominent accountancy firm Azets and global technology leader Samsung, to provide more than one million SMEs with access to fast and flexible finance to acquire equipment and vehicles. The British Business Bank will continue to be an important funding partner for Propel, with an ENABLE Funding facility that will allow Propel to provide c. £165 million of finance to SMEs across the UK. Just last month, Propel was recognised as the UK’s fastest growing asset finance company by Asset Finance Connect’s AF50 top asset finance lender list alongside traditional bank lenders and long established independents. Propel’s growth rate has soared to 92% over the last year and reflects both the investment in its team and technology and its desire to work with its partners to provide SMEs with vital access to finance. Propel’s strategic advisers were Blake Morgan (Legal) and EY (Corporate Finance), who provided valuable industry knowledge to help structure and complete the transaction and execute on the inaugural securitisation. Mark Catton, CEO of Propel said: “We are thrilled to have completed this latest funding transaction, which marks this latest stage of Propel’s growth in our mission to provide accessible finance to SMEs across the UK. We are an important funding partner of the British Business Bank and are excited by the growth opportunities the new funding lines with Citi and Quilam will provide. I should also acknowledge the brilliant work of the Propel team in getting this transaction successfully completed.” Reinald de Monchy, Managing Director, Guarantee and Wholesale Solutions at the British Business Bank, said: “We are delighted to be supporting smaller businesses via our ENABLE Funding programme and for Propel Finance to enter in this next stage of its development. This first refinancing transaction, alongside the continued funding via ENABLE will allow Propel to provide smaller businesses with greater access to a wider range of finance options and help create a more diverse finance market.” Jordan Blakesley, Director at Quilam Capital said: “Quilam is delighted to have helped facilitate the transaction and provide additional growth capital to Propel Finance. This reinforces our commitment to supply larger businesses with the capital to unlock their growth potential. Propel is a rapidly growing asset finance lender and we are pleased to be involved in their journey.”
Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 5 93 M&A deals globally target ESG firms in the first half of 2022. London, UK – 23 August 2022. The Environmental, Social & Governance Technology M&A Market Report from Hampleton Partners, the international M&A and corporate finance advisory firm for technology companies, reveals that the first half of 2022 saw 93 deals globally target an ESG firm, a 173 per cent increase on 1H2019 numbers. This deal momentum comes in the wake of the European Green Deal, the SEC proposal for a new climate disclosure rule and the COP26 conference creation of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) piling on the pressure for companies to provide an accounting of the environmental risks they face, and the measures they’re taking in response. Beyond safeguarding against legal missteps, ESG reporting also sets the tone for investing. ESG is now linked to longer term performance, and can provide opportunities for cost savings, revenue generation and risk mitigation. Stock exchanges, financial regulators, lenders and asset managers are making it part of how they invest, but only one third of investors1, on average, think the quality of the reporting they’re seeing is good enough. Lolita White, senior analyst, Hampleton Partners, said: “While everything seems to point to the advent of a new age of regulatory scrutiny and corporate responsibility in the race to net zero and other goals, businesses’ ESG reporting is not yet up to scratch. “There is an urgent need for companies to improve their use of ESG tech to support the real-time recording, analysis, reporting and visibility of their ESG data. They need to ensure their decisions about why, where and how to manage ESG risks, which can have a material effect on business and share-price performance, are robust. “That’s why we’re seeing increasing numbers of software and services firms specialising in facilitating ESG reporting capabilities, garnering interest as M&A targets.” Hampleton’s research logged 52 deals in the Enterprise Software and software as a service (SaaS) segment in the first half of 2022, more than doubling the number of deals closed in the same period in 2019. ESG deal valuations and multiples Looking at valuations across all ESG M&A targeting software, ESG TECH SECTOR M&A MOMENTUM ONTHE RISE AS REGULATORS AND INVESTORS DEMAND ROBUST REPORTING, REVEALS HAMPLETON PARTNERS services or technology solutions, the trailing five year median revenue has stood at 2.7x, with 50 per cent of all deals announced being in the 0.8x to 6.7x range. The lowest was 0.1x, while the highest was 29.0x. The trailing five year median EBITDA multiple was 13.6x, with 50% of all deals announced in the 9.5x to 19.4x range. The lowest was 2.1x, while the highest was 74.5x. Largest ESG deals 2022 Blackbaud Inc. bought EVERFI Inc for $754m - social impact e-learning SaaS Apax Partners LLP bought Alcumus Group Ltd for $813m - risk and compliance management SaaS Top acquirers of ESG companies - past 30 months The four top acquirers of ESG companies over the past 30 months and their three most recent acquisitions are: Diligent - Insignia, Accuvio, Steele accenture - Akzente, Greenfish, Avieco EcoOnline - StaySafe, Biome Environmental, Nordic Port Ideagen - CompliSpace, Ai XPRT, Qualtrax The future of ESG technology M&A Lolita White continued: ”Beyond M&A, there is increasing conversation around the use and usefulness of ESG reporting. Some criticise ESG as a public relations move, or even a means to cash in on the higher motives of customers, investors, or employees. “Far from negating the case for rigorous reporting, we believe that these debates will amplify the need for accurate and robust disclosure, thus spurring more active regulation with increasingly granular requirements. In turn, this will open many doors for ESG software and services providers helping customers navigate the ever changing ESG landscape.” Hampleton Partners’ ESG M&A Market Report Content Hampleton’s Environmental, Social & Governance Technology M&A Market Report 2H2022 investigates some of the transactions that have targeted firms specialising in ESG capabilities in the past five years, with a focus on software; outsourced services and consulting; and technology solutions more broadly. It explores some of the key transactions, valuations and trends across the sector. Download the full Hampleton Partners’ Environmental, Social & Governance Technology M&A Market Report 2H2022.
6 Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 Jul22463 Strive, Committed, Synchronised, Inspired Established in 1957 as Qatar’s first registered company, Milaha began its journey as a shipping agency, and it strategically developed over the next six decades to become one of the largest maritime and logistics service providers in the region. Focused on providing integrated transport and supply chain solutions, Milaha boasts an expanded modern fleet of vessels, state-of-the-art equipment, modern technologies, dedicated staff, and worldclass partners. Acquisition International magazine has recognised Milaha’s long-standing success by naming it Most Outstanding Maritime & Logistics Company 2022 – Qatar. ed by the InterimPresident and CEO, Mohammed Abdulla Swidan, Milaha is devoted to providing safe, reliable and sustainable end-toend solutions across the supply chain for a wide range of industry leaders in fields such as fashion, e-commerce, infrastructure, defence, health, oil and gas, heavy industries, aviation, and FMCG. These services include shipping, handling, warehousing, custom clearance, distribution, ship management and ship agency, industrial and project logistics, marine services and products, and automotive services, along with logistic support services for the oil and gas sector. The company’s employees provide such high quality services through four core values of ‘Strive’, ‘Committed’, ‘Synchronised’, and ‘Inspired’. They strive to serve every client in the best way possible and to keep improving their service every day, while being committed in that they are honest with their colleagues, clients and partners, never overpromising and never underdelivering. They are synchronised in that their success comes from their collective strength and ability to solve complex problems and innovate smart solutions. Finally, they are inspired by the company’s own history, which is a great source of pride for them, while having an eye for the future in order to leave a valuable legacy behind. Indeed, Milaha’s employees are its most valuable asset, and it is always promoting a positive, healthy and synchronised workplace in which its people are able to thrive, achieve their goals, and be inspired in a way that allows them implement the company’s mission and live up to its values. There’s no denying the importance of their work and the maritime and logistics industry as a whole, with over 80% of world trade by volume and 70% by value being carried by sea and managed by seaports worldwide. Hence, maritime transport plays a significant role in supporting national economies’ growth and resilience. However, this dynamic sector is always vulnerable to various challenges related to HSSEQ, social, digital, and economic issues. The main challenges that the sector and Milaha are facing are decarbonisation, digitalisation, cyberattacks, fuel price increases, workforce, and skills shortage, among others. Some of the ways it is working to overcome these issues are as follows. Environment and Sustainability Milaha is working diligently to minimise impacts on the environment associated with its operations and increase the sustainability of the business through the implementation of its environmental management system, which provides the framework for carbon intensity reduction, management of waste and emissions, sustainability of resources, and compliance with national and international regulations. L HSSEQ It is also committed to protecting and improving the health and safety of all individuals associated with it by providing a safe, secure, and healthy work environment. The integration of safety principles into everyday business activities and striving to continually ensure that its activities are conducted in a safe and ethical manner is recognised as essential to achieve health and safety excellence. Investing in Digitalisation The company believes the main driver of business development is digital transformation, through increasing efficiency, improving innovation, decision making, customer experience, and engagement. Its commitment to investing in technology and digitalisation has included significant upgrades to its platforms, systems, and digital tools to enhance connectivity, mobility, and efficiency. Milaha is nowworkingonbuildingmore innovative solutions for customers using existing technology. In this context, the teamhas experimented with drone-based survey work, remote subsea inspections, dynamic pricing for services, among others. Going forward, the company wants to use its technology to solve customer problems, provide a more seamless and friendly experience, and provide more insight to customers. With this giving an insight into the bright future ahead of it, Milaha is well on the way towards it vision of becoming the partner of choice in the maritime and logistics sector. It is an exciting time for Milaha, but also Qatar and the industry as a whole. Not only is Qatar looking forward to hosting the FIFAWorld Cup this year, but the next few years are looking to be exciting for the energy sector in the country with the expansion of gas production. As a result, there is a great opportunity for Milaha to enhance and expand its offerings to a number of its core customer segments, including marine, energy, and industrial – and to do so, its focus will remain on growing and developing its outstanding team. Company: Milaha Contact: Muna Al-Bader Email: corporatecomms@milaha.com Website: www.milaha.com
Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 7 Best Faith-Based Humanitarian Aid NPO - Canada he Gospel teaches humanity to stand as a united front – that no matter what our differences may be, we are all united through God’s unconditional love and compassion. From Leviticus 19:34 to Mark 12:31 or The Parable of The Good Samaritan, this concept is echoed throughout biblical text; you should be warm and understanding to others. Global Aid Network (GAin), embodies this, utilising such ideas as a force for international good. The Christian non-profit, which focuses on global relief and development, endeavours to share hope by sharing God’s love and restoring life by demonstrating the Gospel through compassionate action to those living in injustice, poverty, and crisis around the world. As such, GAiN primarily focuses upon five key areas – the fundamental mission, non-discrimination, localisation, meaningful impact, and community sustainability and resilience. Through prioritising these elements, GAiN encroaches upon its mission to empower people to experience life in its fullness, for which it uses the foundation of God’s word as a guiding principle. It firmly believes that everyone is created in God’s image and are, subsequently, deserving of dignity, regardless of their gender, orientation, race, age, or religion. Indeed, GAiN serves everyone. Its projects, therefore, cover a diverse range of areas. For example, its Water for Life Initiative has been created in order to provide sanitary, safe water to communities around the globe. The lack of safe water and sanitation is, in fact, a global crisis, with an estimated 840,000 dying each year from diarrhoea due to unsafe drinking-water, poor sanitation, and poor hygiene practices. Water is a fundamental factor in human development; consequently, by 2030, GAiN hopes to provide 10 million people with access to safe drinking water in 10 different countries. So far, GAiN’s work has provided 2,749 deep-capped water wells, provided over two million people with access to clean water, and have trained over 31,000 people in community health training. In addition to this, 961 churches have been established, and over 30,000 have learnt the basic teachings of Christianity. T GAiN also supports disaster relief and preparedness, economic empowerment, and maintains local church partnerships. Supporting these projects is easy – there are a number of options available, from prayer to LIFE Team trips. No matter how a patron chooses to support, they are contributing to an exceptional cause that lifts people out of poverty, injustice, and crisis around the world. To find out more about GAiN, its inspiringmessage, and the impressive work it carries out, visit its website here: https://globalaid.net/ Global Aid Network supports communities around the world, empowering them through clean water, relief, and its unwavering belief in the word of God. Through the non-profit’s work, over two million people now have access to clean drinking water – but Global Aid Network’s mission isn’t yet complete. Join us as we delve in and learn more about this unique non-profit. Contact: Jennifer Thornton Company: Global Aid Network (GAiN) Web: https://globalaid.net/ Jun22104
8 Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 as any worries, desires, and fears, can be openly discussed, which leads to brilliant solutions and expedited goal-achieving. ‘Our differentiation point at UKBC is not about us. It’s about what we do differently to help our clients solve their problems and achieve their financial and business goals,’ adds Mara. This approach led UKBC to double its business during the pandemic – ‘In this time of economic uncertainty, we were able to plan ahead, anticipate bumps in the road, and devise a strategy to deal, both for us and our clients. Covid era was a challenge itself in numerous ways. We instantly realised it was also an economic virus and furthermore a new normality. So, we rolled up our sleeves and without losing time we have designed and executed a Covid survival strategy for our clients.’ Indeed, during this period of turbulence, UKBC placed its clients at the forefront of its list of priorities. As a result, the company ensured the sustainability of its clients’ businesses and helped them spot new opportunities that the pandemic brought along in the market. Further, the clients felt safe and secure during the lockdown period, with most of them managing to grow bigger through digital strategy. ‘Our goal for the next few years is to help our clients in every possible way to grow further and dominate the UK market. We are incessantly working to help companies accelerate their business and increase their market share. Every success brings us closer to our own vision: to make entrepreneurship easier and more attainable to all,’ Mara concludes. Contact: Mara Venieri Company: UK Business Consulting Web Address: www.ukbc.london Best Accountancy & Business Consulting Partner (London): Mara Venieri UKBC [ UK Business Consulting] is a leading company in assisting businesses growth,’ states Mara Venieri. ‘We help corporations and entrepreneurs start, expand, and grow their businesses in the UK. With decades of experience, our focus is on sharing our knowledge, bringing beneficial value-added services to our clients, and helping them make critical decisions in order to grow their business faster.’ Mara Venieri, an experienced business strategist and growth consultant, serves as UK Business Consulting’s Managing Director. The University of Birmingham alumna leads the business alongside Andreas Papaevripides, and together they have led UKBC toward an abundance of success and prestige. Moreover, the duo operate under a shared goal – to help their clients accelerate their businesses and accomplish their personal visions. This attitude has become embedded within the company’s internal structure and, as a result, has become the defining factor of UKBC’s team. The team have played a fundamental role in the company’s success story over the years. Every member of staff holds a unique position in the team, and within this role, they are greatly valued. Consequently, everyone is always on the same page, representing the company’s values, and provide services that grow the clients’ businesses whilst cultivating a happy and friendly working environment. When explaining the recruitment process at UKBC, Mara comments, ‘our internal culture is based on trust, appreciation, resilience, teamwork, and safety. As we are getting bigger day by day, we constantly hire inspiring people who show loyalty, are team players, love their job, and have a passion for success. Our people are passionate about seeing people succeed!’ Such team members often work with clients who are headstrong – they are companies that hope to dominate within their industry. From small start-ups to large international conglomerates, the companies UKBC deals with all have the desire to stand out from the crowd, develop at a quicker rate, accomplish more, and create a unique success story. Mara works in conjunction with the team to create the finest growth strategies for the clients, which are based on the clients’ needs, genuine demands, and objectives. Every business issue, as well ‘ Jul22035 Mara Venieri stands at the helm of the leading accountancy and business consultancy, UK Business Consulting. Her extensive expertise has led the company to dizzying heights in recent years – and this trend of success is only expected to continue!
Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 9 At the heart of Topper Industrial lies family; since 1994, the Brown family has been leading the company towards international success. The patriarch, Ed Brown, CEO, has infused Topper Industrial with innovation, passion, and drive, with such traits similarly being shared amongst the following generation. As such, Topper Industrial has earned the title of Best Material Handling Equipment Manufacturer 2022 – Wisconsin. Jul22217 ith in excess of 20 years of experience developing lean material handling solutions for the supply chain, it could be said that Topper Industrial, a family-owned business, is at the top of its field. Incorporated in 1994 by Ed Brown, Topper Industrial was established with the intention to become a leading custom metal fabrication and weld shop. In the space of four years, the company had achieved this goal and more, and had become one of the top global producers of industrial carts. Indeed, early in its career the company rose to international prestige, and as of 2022, it is a recognisable designer and producer of all the machinery required to move and deliver materials line side. Moreover, Ed Brown continues to serve as Topper Industrial’s CEO, with his children taking leading roles in the business; Ryan Brown became President in 2010; Cynthia is the CFO; Eric acts as the Vice-President of Research and Development; Jillian works as the company’s Marketing Manager; and Jenna is the Safety Manager. Whilst the company has evolved in a plethora of ways since its establishment, its mission – to design and build the most innovative, well built, safe equipment that will make people’s jobs easier and safer – has remained fundamentally the same. Topper Industrial strives to produce quality equipment that users can depend upon. In fact, reliability has become increasingly important for the business over time, as the company endeavours to manufacture products that provide tangible benefits to the client’s work life. Yet Topper Industrial has had to overcome several challenges throughout its lifetime, with hurdles including rising labour and material costs, supply chain delays, and of course, the Covid-19 W pandemic. Whilst many of the team members did have to take time away due to the virus, it did highlight the team’s ability to work flexibly as the information and advice around covid changed. In addition, during this turbulent period, the team worked harmoniously, relying on each other to pick up where and when others couldn’t. Henceforth, 2022 is expected to follow and expand upon Topper Industrial’s previous success. Through its familial foundation, the company boasts a stronger commitment to investment for future goals. Furthermore, the company is consistently growing and expanding in order to match rising demand. The company has recently invested in building a high-tech extension complete with cutting edge equipment that will further streamline production. Success has come naturally to Topper Industrial, with much of this stemming from the strong support network that backs it. Therefore, it is safe to say that its future will exceed the successes of Topper Industrial’s past and will further push the company up the ranks of the international market. Contact: Jill Burrow Company: Topper Industrial Web Address: www.topperindustrial.com From Wisconsin to the World Stage
10 Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 Jul22064 A True Insight Into Fashion Consumer Trends As the Most Innovative Consumer Behaviour & Shopping Intelligence Platform – 2022, FashWire has an exceptional reputation to maintain. It provides the consumer with the power to provide leading brands with helpful feedback, thereby revolutionising the way fashion labels cater to their audiences. ashWire’s dynamic two-sided marketplace for discovery and shopping is redefining the way its portfolio of fashion designers and brands receive critical information about consumer trends. The platform uses technology to tailor the customer experience and enable the organic discovery of global fashion. It has created an interactive experience that allows the customer to become the influencer, which it accomplishes through its social integration capabilities, such as swiping, liking, and following. Upon joining the platform – be it through the cutting-edge app or website – customers receive access to a curated selection of over 30,000 products from more than 400 fashion brands worldwide. Henceforth, it has been a hit with consumers and institutions alike, receiving dozens of positive reviews and recognition from industry leaders. For example, FashWire boasts a vast collection of awards, including 2022’s Best Fashion Marketplace at the Glossy Fashion Awards – a ceremony that showcases those that have defined the beauty and fashion worlds over the past year. ‘We provide the consumer responsible intel and ways to purchase sustainable fashion and conscious beauty brands. Today up to 30% of new fashion products worth billions of dollars never get sold and end up in landfills,’ explains Kimberly Carney, the company’s founder. ‘Giving our brands real-time data and actionable insights on what is resonating with the consumer allows them to make smarter production decisions, therefore reducing excess product and wastage of clothes that do not sell thereby significantly positively impacting our environment.’ The company currently maintains the brands it acquires across forty different countries. Its global reach is thanks to the fact that its team travels across the globe in order to find suitable brands, and in addition, the company treats its consumers as its business partners. This approach is entirely unique as it transgresses traditional boundaries through giving the customer control – this can be seen within FashWire’s approach to sustainability. FashWire provides the consumer with the ability to make responsible and powerful decisions in regard to their purchasing power in the fashion industry. Whilst this does, of course, make the company unique, it is not the only interesting aspect of the platform. As Kimberly states, ‘we are designer and brand advocates, not product driven. It is about the partnerships we establish with the brands, focusing on their purpose and the ability to give them a voice. We are not about pushing product specifically. Additionally, FashWire’s proprietary swipe F technology gives consumers the opportunity to give their feedback and be influencers while giving brands important insights on what is resonating with consumers. This instant consumer feedback allows designers to make better production decisions as they are getting vital insights in real-time.’
Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 11 A True Insight Into Fashion Consumer Trends Behind the FashWire magic is a team of passionate individuals that Kimberly describes as ‘true assets’ to the business. They are creative, intelligent, and boast extensive backgrounds in the fashion industry. Furthermore, the FashWire team works exceptionally hard in order to drive the company towards its goals – they are as equally as passionate as Kimberly is about the future of the business. As such, FashWire thrives upon collaboration, which has contributed immensely to the company’s growth and success. Kimberly adds, ‘diversity, engagement, and inclusion are core to our company values. Not only are we focused on hiring diverse talent, but we also ensure they are treated with respect and support. The company is female founded with a 90% women-led team and 50% of the entire team are culturally diverse.’ The closeness of the team is an exceptional benefit, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. It enabled FashWire to be ahead of the curve prior to the initial outbreak, which meant that instead of suffering like many wholesale companies, the pandemic accelerated the platform’s growth. Indeed, adoption increased as FashWire is uniquely positioned to give brands a digital platform to showcase their collections and interact digitally with global consumers. Moreover, as consumer trends changed – more people took to the internet to shop – the company’s mobile apps fit that needed role for product curation by blending personalisation and human facilitation. In terms of consistent industry trends, Kimberly notes, ‘with personalisation becoming more and more relevant to understanding the consumer, it is becoming increasingly important to adapt and stay ahead of the curve. Our technology empowers consumers to give brands direct feedback on what they like, and also gives brands data based on consumer behavior. This information in turn allows the brands to tailor their products to the consumer’s needs and to personalise their offerings. And that’s just the beginning — we see a future where personalisation is going to become increasingly important for brands to differentiate and, with FashWire, they have a technology platform that they can rely on.’ The future is coming fast, yet FashWire’s position means that its path forward is clear. It endeavours to be the premier platform for an engaged, sustainable, and inclusive shopping experience between designers and consumers. It is with this in mind that the company is introducing a plethora of plans to the pipeline that will bolster both the company’s growth and its connections with consumers and partners. A key example of this is FashWire’s current work to localise its apps to support different languages. ‘Our success will be driven by staying true to our purpose and mission as we continue to leverage technology for even stronger brand-consumer connectivity. We launched into the multi-billion-dollar beauty industry with GlossWire in February 2021 and already disrupting the beauty space with over 225 brands and are currently building CasaWire, to bring home + décor brands to shoppers with the same compelling experience. CasaWire launches September 28th, 2022,’ concludes Kimberly. Contact: Kimberly Carney Company: FashWire Web Address: https://www.fashwire.com
12 Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 Jul22367 SYMMETRIA® Leading the world of health and beauty since 2005, SYMMETRIA® is a technologically advanced anti-aging brand, founded by plastic surgeon Dr. Nikolaos Metaxotos, M.D., Ph.D., active in the field of Health, Beauty, Anti-Aging, Weight Management and Medical Wellness. Its innovative philosophy and operational model, known as “Minimum Intervention - Maximum Effect”®, has met international recognition with a plethora of awards for its unique, top-tier services, non-invasive and minimally invasive Protocols for the face and body, and its highly specialized scientific staff. ot Just Another Health & Beauty Brand As a technologically advanced anti-aging brand founded by plastic surgeon Dr. Nikolaos Metaxotos, M.D., Ph.D., SYMMETRIA® has been active in the fields of health, beauty, antiaging, weight management and medical wellness, since 2005. The comprehensive range of services offered, the well-trained staff and the prestigious credentials of the physicians and scientists on board, all meet the needs of the clinic’s most demanding clients. SYMMETRIA® doesn’t sell beauty, it creates trends and provides easy access of the latest technological advancements so that patients are able to achieve the best version of themselves with the least invasive means. Minimum Intervention for MaximumEffect:AConsumer CentricModel SYMMETRIA®’s philosophy says it all! Minimum Intervention, Maximum Effect® is an operational model whereby optimum results are achieved through alternative and less invasive options. Nowadays, less invasive methods with minimal recovery time and highly effective results are most wanted and that’s the key to attracting and maintaining happy and loyal customers. We focus on providing a holistic approach that deals with each person’s individual needs and place emphasis on treatments that quickly, efficiently, and painlessly correct the signs of aging. This innovative operational model has met international recognition with a SYMMETRIA® receiving a plethora of awards for its unique, top-tier services, non-invasive and minimally invasive protocols for the face and body, as well as its highly specialized scientific staff. In essence, no detail has been overlooked. International Awards & A Growing Reputation It is no wonder that the international press has branded SYMMETRIA® as one of the top aesthetic clinics worldwide, whilst also being awarded with a significant number of awards; among them the Best Clinic Award, the European Quality Award, The Best Medical Practice Award, Best in Non-Invasive Treatments, and the Gold Medical Beauty Award. Protocols Are The New Hot Thing! SYMMETRIA® remains on the innovative front, armed with the latest technology when it comes to non-invasive and minimally invasive aesthetic procedures, weight management, and medical well-being. Inspired by the future, SYMMETRIA® has always strived to pave the path hand in hand with the latest technological advancements that prioritize safety, patient satisfaction, and amazing results. As a brand, it always conducts thorough market research to bring forth praised technologies that yield innovative solutions that match every patient’s needs. The brand offers innovative treatments for the renewal of the face and body, with the most advanced technologies, the most innovative products, and a passion for aesthetics. Providing the most complete range of services, treating customers as individuals, each with their own bespoke needs, procedures are conducted by highly specialized personnel and state-of-the-art equipment and techniques – all of which are the key qualities of SYMMETRIA®. N Protocols are not simply treatments. Protocols essentially consist of a series of steps that guarantee the success, safety, and durability of results. SYMMETRIA® has combined a variety of different procedures following the latest trends in aesthetic treatments for the face, body, weight management, and medical wellness. Any protocol conducted in SYMMETRIA® is comprised of a consultation (physical or virtual), and home preparation of the skin where needed, followed by a combination of tailor-made procedures and somemuch-needed aftercare. A Global Network, Collaborations & Expansions As part of its ongoing network expansion, SYMMETRIA® has consolidated its presence in Middle East and Europe via collaborations with partners who share common ground with Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Nikolaos Metaxotos MD, Ph.D. Priority is placed on offering the latest and most advanced health and beauty services that emphasize patient care and comfort, provision of optimal results, achieved through the latest technology and interdisciplinary collaboration. Our clinics and partners include SYMMETRIA®Athens, SYMMETRIA® SPOTs, SYMMETRIA® Bahrain, SYMMETRIA® Saudi Arabia, the distinguished Ion-Kavouni clinic in London, Praxisklinik Urania in Zurich, Instituto Javier de Benito in Barcelona, Clinique Del Mar in Antibes as well as Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso in Vouliagmeni, Athens. All partner-clinics share the same philosophy and brand values as SYMMETRIA® when it comes to services and patient care. Immediate Response for a Covid-Free Environment TheSANITIZEDPROTOCOLS initiative operates under agreed guidelines across an array of high-profile plastic surgeons in Europe, as a form of management to protect their patients and staff against COVID-19. The spotlight is on the precautions that are taken in aesthetic clinics and the protocols followed that are adapted to secure a safe return of the staff and customers to their habits, by reassuring them that visiting the clinic is risk-free. The scope of this initiative is to be used as a guideline. This is in addition to the guidelines from the local Medical Council. In cases though where such guidelines are limited, we highly recommend that you use the proceeding points as a template. Upon arrival, patients will have completed all health care documents so that they don’t lose time with paperwork at the premises. They will be introduced to the international SANITIZED PROTOCOLS applied at SYMMETRIA® which include: All visitors to be either fully vaccinated or have a negative Covid test from a certified lab, the daily sterilization of each treatment room even in between patient appointments, no patient run-ins with other patients as well as no delays during appointments due to the large premises and a carefully planned out rotation schedule. For more information visit: www.symmetria.com Contact: Nikolaos Metaxotos Company: SYMMETRIA® Web Address: www.symmetria.com An Encounter of Disruptors
Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 13 Changing Times he world of digital marketing is one that is constantly changing, and businesses have to change to keep up with it. With the world of digital becoming almost a native language to many, the work that is undertaken by teams such as Web Welder is essential to ensuring that organisations stay on top of this rapidly evolving industry. Acting as a full service digital marketing, design, and development agency, this is a firm that knows the potential power of this incredible industry. The team’s focus is not purely on website design. Instead, they take a holistic approach over the digital sphere, specialising in SEO, PPC Management, Social Media Marketing, Branding and all other digital marketing services. Since opening their doors, the team have been noted for their ability as a top Digital Asset Management Provider. We asked Mike how he and the team had been able to secure such success with their clients. “We work fast, delivering quality, strategic thinking and efficiency within your budget management,” he told us. T “We become fully immersed into our client’s business and industry, acquiring the same vision to accomplish goals together.” Working with so many clients has allowed the team to experiment in many different ways. “We’ve leveraged the best practices learned from across our experience in a plethora of industries around the globe,” Mike explains. “We are one of the best digital marketing agencies providing a wide range of services to businesses around the world.” This international reach has been a key reason behind the team’s continued expansion. It also speaks to the incredible potential behind any organisation looking to leverage the digital connection. With such potential, the team has built in amazing flexibility to ensure that the right solutions can be reached as swiftly as possible. “Our highly qualified staff members are empowered to make decisions, give direction and do what is ultimately best for our clients,” Mike tells us. “We consider our clients as “partners” rather than customers as their success has everything to do with our success. We put our clients’ needs first and foremost. Our customer satisfaction is second to none which is why we’ve been able to work of off 100% referrals.” The shifting nature of the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic did close some businesses down, but to many others, it opened a door to the need to adapt to the digital marketplace. For many of these businesses, the work of Web Welder was crucial. Mike was happy to elaborate on the role that the team played for many during these turbulent times: “As a company, we developed new technology to help clients deliver their goods and services and found different platforms to help market our clients’ businesses.” With such difficult times behind them, and a world newly open to the potential of digital marketing, it’s clear the future is bright for the team at Web Welder. “As a company, we will celebrate our 20th anniversary in February of 2023,” Mike says delightedly. “We’ve seen a plethora of changes over the years and have been pliant enough to stay up with the times and develop new ways of delivering relevant content on a consistent basis. As our clients’ needs change, we change along with them to help deliver the best quality digital marketing services available.” The message of change – adapting to new ideas and fresh frontiers – is clearly at the heart of how the Web Welder team operates. In a world that has gone digital, with all that entails, they’ve managed to stay ahead with ease and grace. It’s brought them such success in the past and is certain to do so in the future as well. With success in the Global Excellence Awards behind them, we cannot wait to see what they achieve next! In the digital age, the need for a website is absolutely critical. Most importantly, however, is that your website really earns its keep. The team at Web Welder LLC know what it means to offer digital marketing solutions that make recognisable returns. In Acquisition International’s rolling series of Global Excellence Awards, the team were named Most Innovative Digital Marketing Agency – USA. We caught up with Mike Wheaton to uncover more of the secrets of the team’s remarkable success. Company: Web Welder LLC Name: Mike Wheaton Email: info@webwelder.net Web: https://webwelder.net/ Jul22614
14 Acquisition International - Issue 9 2022 Jun22536 The Future of Sustainable Energy Starts Here In today’s world, the climate crisis is the most pressing issue – it’s on every news channel, in every newspaper, and is talked about throughout social media. In order to tackle this issue, new solutions must come forward. Providing one of these solutions is KEW Technology, the Most Outstanding Sustainable Energy Technology Firm 2022 – UK. limate change is a global issue – it affects everyone – meaning that no longer can people remain ignorant or turn away from the matter. It’s not going to go away. There are several ways that we, as an international community, can reduce the impact – however, a great amount of this responsibility falls upon global corporations, some of the biggest emitters of carbon dioxide and pollutants. Henceforth, many businesses are turning towards sustainable energy in order to drastically reduce their carbon footprint, and, in turn, their contributions to a crisis. A pioneer within the sustainable energy sector, KEW Technology has brought forth a new way of implementing green practices within businesses. KEW Technology envisions a world that has surpassed the need for fossil fuels. Through developing its own development capabilities and proprietary advanced gasification process, a form of Advanced Conversion Technology, the innovator is commercialising a modular sustainable solution that converts non-recyclable waste and biomass-based feedstocks into sustainable energy products such as industrial heat, hydrogen, rDME and other advanced fuels. This is providing a deep decarbonisation solution to its clients to bolster the use of eco-friendly production methods. Consequently, KEW Technology is at the epicentre of two parallel market revolutions: the drive to zero carbon emissions and the shift to a zero-waste circular economy. Of course, this ties into KEW Technology’s mission to push the world towards zero carbon through targeting energy-intensive industries and advanced fuels sectors. KEW’s solutions end-products are sustainable alternatives to natural gas, LPG and transport fuels amongst other fossil-intensive gases and fuels. Supported in its earlier years by its Co-Funders at the Energy Technologies Institute (ETI) – a partnership between the UK Government, BP, Rolls Royce, Shell, Caterpillar and E.ON – KEW Technology certainly has the momentum and funding to make this goal a reality. The company is further supported and aligned with key UK Government departments including the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), Department for Transport, Department for International Development, and more. More recently, Dimeta (a joint venture between SHV Energy and UGI International; two of the world’s largest LPG market players) and KEW Technology announced a partnership, culminating in the creation of Circular Fuels Ltd. The joint venture, which was launched in early 2022, will develop C renewable and recycled carbon dimethyl ether (rDME) production plants. rDME (a molecule chemically similar to propane and butane) is a clean-burning and versatile fuel that has been identified as a key enabler in the defossillising of the LPG industry and therefore the off-grid energy sector. Moreover, the partnership has initiated a multimillion-pound investment which has aided the setup of the venture, and leverages KEW’s proprietary advanced gasification technology to develop waste-to-rDME production plants worldwide. Circular Fuels Ltd is preparing for its first large-scale plant in Teesside, UK with the project being in late stage detailed engineering, with the production of rDME expected to begin in 2024. The plan is for subsequent plants to be located across Europe and North America. This feeds back into the creation of a circular economy, which, in turn, is leading to a zero-carbon future. In addition, it links to – what has been coined – the ‘energy trilemma.’ The energy trilemma encompasses affordability, sustainability, and energy security within the production and delivery of energy, which are the three core issues that are currently rife within the sector. KEW Technology strikes a balance between each pillar, redefining what each means within the world today. Simply, KEW Technology is entirely unique, it is changing how the sustainable energy market operates, and it is doing this not only for the betterment of the industry, but also for the planet. The innovative process has been proven at KEW Technology’s world-first, commercial-scale plant – the Sustainable Energy Centre – which spent over 10 years in development with over £30 million in investments. The state-of-the-art operational facility serves as the core proof for KEW Technology’s innovative process, which currently converts non-recyclable wastes and low-grade biomass into sustainable energy products, such as heat and power with rDME, hydrogen with carbon capture and other advanced fuels soon to be demonstrated at the flagship facility in the Midlands, UK. Thanks to the pressurised element of the process that enables modularity, KEW is commercialising the same process with no scale-up risk through a unique approach to deploy its technology via standardised modules, manufactured to a standardised design by experienced manufacturing partners with established production facilities and supply chains. This is very different to the traditional Energy from Waste and biofuels projects bespoke construction approach on a project-by-project basis adopted by larger scale project developers, which does not lend itself to deployment synergies and cost reductions.
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