Leading Edge Acquired

Australian research consultancy The Leading Edge (TLE) has recently joined the newly listed Photon Group Ltd (PGA), a group of specialist marketing services companies which includes direct marketing, PR, design, advertising, retail marketing and merchandising.

TLE has grown rapidly in its 14 year history and has offices in Sydney and Melbourne. The new venture gives it capital to grow the business through investment in IP development and innovation, plus access to the wider marketing services community through Photon's other companies and specialisms.

TLE CEO Derek Leddie says his team has spent the past 2 years assessing the best strategic move for the company. 'Whilst we looked closely at a number of offers from large international buyers we did not believe that becoming the Australian branch of an international agency would deliver to our clients or our staff needs'. Leddie says the move 'allows The Leading Edge to retain its independence, vision, management team and distinct culture, while providing for our staff career growth opportunities as part of a larger marketing services group. Additionally, being part of the Photon Group allows us to have a larger capital base for expansion, as well as access to a wealth of innovation opportunities through the skill sets of the other Photon marketing service companies'.

Photon Group's Executive Chairman Tim Hughes paid tribute to TLE's 'first class management team' and its 'history of innovating and attracting the best people'. According to CEO Mathew Bailey TLE is 'recognized throughout Australia and internationally for its progressive approach to market research... We felt it was exactly the type of company that would make an outstanding and complimentary member of the Photon Group'.

Existing Photon companies include Adpartners, Love (communications), Artel (in-store marketing), Bellamyhayden (media strategy), Brass Tacks (marketing), CPR Communications and Public Relations and digital graphics firm ImageBox, as well as Australian Business Theatre. Photon's web site is at www.photongroup.com , and TLE's at www.theleadingedge.com.au

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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