WPP Takes Majority Stake in hug

WPP ad agency Grey has acquired a majority stake in Dubai-based hug digital, whose list of services includes digital and social media marketing, web site development, research and insights, and content and influencer marketing. Terms were not disclosed.

Launched in 2010, hug is led by Chairman Oussama Jamal and CEO Tim Baker, also has offices in Egypt and India, and employs around 145 people. The firm also focuses on user experience; social media and mobile app development; community management; and social listening and analysis - the last through partnerships with companies such as Brandwatch, CrowdAnalysiser, and Socialbakers. For the year ended 31st December 2016, hug revenues were approximately ADE19m (nearly £4m).

As part of the deal, Jamal and Baker will continue to head the hug digital operations, while working closely with Nirvik Singh (pictured), Chairman and CEO of Grey Group Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa (MENA), to set the overall strategic digital growth plan for the region. Commenting on the deal, Singh said: 'Grey Group's acquisition of hug digital enhances our leadership position in the MENA creative and digital space. It underscores Grey's commitment to expand our offering and deliver quality, value-added services to our clients.'

Web sites: www.wpp.com , www.grey.com and www.hugdigital.com .

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