Adare International now part of HH

Perez: business models are complementary
Perez: business models are complementary

HH Global has completed its takeover of Adare International.

The deal was announced in June, but was subject to a number of completion terms and legal processes. 

HH said the acquisition would “cement HH Global’s position as market leader”, with global sales of around $2.1bn (£1.52bn).

The deal also includes healthcare and B2B creative marketing agency Purple Agency. 

HH Global CEO Mike Perez commented: “The complementary nature of our business models and our shared passion for innovation, sustainability, and commitment to delivering outstanding services, assures me that this acquisition will allow us to continue to boost the growth momentum we have built over the last few years. 

“On behalf of everyone at HH Global I would like to wish both employees and clients alike from Adare International a very warm welcome to the HH Global family.”

Basingstoke-headquartered Adare International posted sales up 22.4% to £234.26m in its most recent results, for 2019. It turned around the prior year’s operating loss of £1.64m after exceptional costs to post a small operating profit of £119,000. Adjusted EBITDA was £2.96m (2018: £2.62m).

The company's services span print management, digital content, logistics and point-of-sale. It had been owned by private equity house Endless. 

Andrew Dutton, group CEO of Adare International, said he was excited about what the merger would mean for the future.

He said: “Having been the CEO of Adare International since 2016, I have had the privilege of helping to grow our business into the exceptional marketing services provider it is today. Our dedication for delivering innovative, integrated marketing solutions to clients around the world aligns perfectly with the strengths of HH Global, making us confident that this partnership represents the best path for our company going forwards.”

Dutton is leaving the business now the transaction has been completed. The Adare International operations will be rebranded as HH Global, while the Purple Agency brand will be retained until further notice. 

HH Global’s ambitious expansion plans included the takeover of its larger rival InnerWorkings last year. 

Following the Adare International buy, HH now has more than 4,000 employees worldwide and a presence in more than 65 countries. The group said that seven of its local market operations now had annual run rates “of over $50m revenue for the first time”.