Sparkler Founders Magnus Willis and John Robson Depart

John Robson and Magnus Willis, the founders of London-based consumer insight and brand strategy specialist Sparkler, have left the business to take time out for a 'rest and reset'.

Founded in 2001, Sparkler offers expertise in consumer research, including insight communities, to understand how consumers think and behave in the digital world. In 2017, it won the Market Research Society's award for Best Agency with a turnover under £20m (pictured), and a year later, it was acquired by PA Consulting.

Robson and Willis set up the agency after time in planning roles at ad agency Lowe Howard-Spink, having both begun their careers at AMV BBDO. Following their departure, Sparkler is now led by Alex Wright, Anna Campbell, Gemma Proctor and Jamie Allsopp, and Willis says the firm is being left in the 'safest hands'.

Robson added: 'Today is our last day at Sparkler after 20 wonderful years. Both for me and Magnus Willis, my partner on this adventure from the start. Thanks very much to everyone - colleagues and clients - who has been part of the story. I have been thinking of all the brilliant times and projects we have worked on together; some great memories'.

Web site: www.sparkler.co.uk .