Advertising giant WPP snaps up software firm that helps brands sell via Amazon and eBay
Cloud Commerce Group (CCG), the Lancashire-based software firm that helps retailers sell and deliver their products across ecommerce platforms and marketplaces, has been snapped up by advertising giant WPP.
CCG, which headquartered in Lancaster where it employs 100 staff, is a leader in multi-channel ecommerce software, supporting hundreds of European retailers and wholesalers.
The software platform helps brands across the entire commerce journey, connecting customer acquisition and multi-platform commerce, with warehousing, inventory, and fulfilment partners.
CCG’s software integrates with online marketplaces including Amazon and eBay, ecommerce platforms including Shopify and Magento, and multiple accounting systems, payment gateways and fulfilment partners.
The platform powers over £1bn in gross merchandise value annually through its various integrations.
CCG, which is headed up by CEO Mark Hallam, will now join the Wunderman Thompson global network as part of its market-leading commerce and technology proposition.
This acquisition is part of WPP’s accelerated growth and M&A strategy building on existing capabilities in the areas of experience, commerce and technology.
Mark Read, CEO of WPP, said: “Clients look to WPP to help them market, sell and fulfil across multiple ecommerce channels and marketplaces.
“With over £1 billion revenue transacting through its platform, Cloud Commerce Group already has demonstrable scale and success in managing the complex omnichannel commerce needs of global brands.
“I’m excited about how CCG’s expertise will further strengthen the breadth and depth of our commerce offering to deliver growth for our clients.”
CCG was formed as Cloud Commerce Pro by Mark Hallam and Stuart Forrest after selling their division of Iomart PLC to BT PLC in 2008.
Mark Hallam said: “This is a particularly momentous and exciting time for Cloud Commerce Group and Lancaster. Becoming part of a global network will create new opportunities for growth and innovation and shows that market-leading businesses and teams flourish in Lancashire.
“Being part of WPP will lead to collaboration with experts across Europe and internationally, and we’re very much looking forward to building on CCG’s success to date.”
CCG was advised by Forbes Solicitors, which had previously worked together with CCG in 2019, when the Corporate team supported the company’s acquisition of Channel Grabber.
