New Zealand Buy Boosts Synovate

Synovate parent the Aegis Group has purchased New Zealand-based MR agency Research Solutions for an undisclosed sum.

The company - which was founded by Debra Hall in a 'suburban Auckland garage' in 1992 - has around 40 full-time staff, complemented by a nationwide fieldforce of 200+ interviewers. In 2005, Ian Mills joined from Millward Brown as General Manager & Research Director, to allow Hall to dedicate more time to her clients.

Aegis says that the buy will complement Synovate's recently opened Wellington office, enabling it to provide a full-service offering in New Zealand. Mills will become MD Synovate New Zealand reporting to Brent Stewart CEO Australia & New Zealand, while Hall will become Executive Director Research and report to Mills.

Aegis says it is aiming for a quick re-brand and expects this to happen by the end of the year or early 2008.

Commenting on the acquisition, Aegis CEO Robert Lerwill said: 'Research Solutions is a highly regarded business which will fit well with Synovate's brand and culture. By enhancing our capability in New Zealand, we will be able to offer a broader service to all our regional clients, to the benefit of Synovate and clients alike.'

Aegis has been in acquisitive mood of late - in September, it acquired Canadian media specialist, Genesis (www.mrweb.com/drno/news7495.htm ), the previous month it bought digital market specialist Ion Global (www.mrweb.com/drno/news7126.htm), and in May it took a 70% stake in Chinese marketing and events company, New Voice (www.mrweb.com/drno/news5466.htm ).

Web sites are at www.aegisplc.com , www.synovate.com and www.resolutions.co.nz.

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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