InContext Expands to Europe

Chicago-based 3-D virtual store research specialist InContext Solutions has opened an office in the UK, led by Alki Manias, with the title of Group Vice President Europe, Shopper & Retail Solutions.

Founded in 2009, InContext conducts research using online 3-D environment simulations, and has developed applications for virtual store research, collaborative store planning and e-commerce. Its flagship shopper marketing platform ShopperMX enables manufacturers and retailers to collaborate over the web within a 3-D virtual store simulation, offering capabilities for testing store, aisle and category layouts, product packaging, in-store marketing, and shopper flow within a store.

Manias (pictured) joins after two years running his own business development and strategy consultancy. Prior to this, he was VP at consumer research specialist Perception Research Services, a Director at Harris Interactive, SVP of European Sales at e-Rewards, MD at YouGovCentaur, and a Global Director at GFK Roper Consulting. During his career, he has also held senior roles at NetValue, the London Stock Exchange Group, and AT&T Mobility.

InContext CEO Mark Hardy says that the launch of the new office in Richmond-Upon-Thames is part of the firm's strategy for developing a strong client base located overseas. 'There is huge market opportunity in Europe with both multinational CPG companies and local retailers and manufacturers, and we're excited to finally have the chance to tap into it,' Hardy explains. 'With his strong experience in both market research and collaborative media, we're confident Alki will lead our European endeavors in the right direction.'

The firm, which recently raised $12m in Series D funding, is on the web at: www.incontextsolutions.com .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.

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