International media group swoops for Stoke tech firm
Auspicious has acquired a Stoke-based digital learning tech company, as it looks to target growth in the learning and HR market.
DBLX is the international media group’s third acquisition since launching in October 2024. It joins Blue Chalk Media, a US-based non-fiction production company and Studio Yes, a creative advertising and video production studio.
Led by CEO and co-founder Nicky Hoyland, DBLX works with HR and learning & development teams inside major organisations to improve L&D and internal communications, by designing bespoke solutions to engage staff.
The company counts global brands like Santander, St James’s Place, Subsea 7 and Centrica as clients and has won a host of industry awards.
Nicky Hoyland joins Auspicious in a group role as global chief innovation officer while retaining responsibility for the growth of DBLX.
Rob Ashcroft has joined Auspicious as chief learning officer, where he will help DBLX build out its learning consultancy, transformation and employee experience offer.
Ashcroft recently left Santander UK where he spent more than 17 years in learning management roles, most recently as head of capability, covering learning & resourcing.
Rachel Pendered, Auspicious Co-CEO said: “Learning is a huge focus for large companies as they invest in employee skills and capabilities that directly impact the bottom line.
“It’s a major growth market for Auspicious both in the UK and in the US. Rob and Nicky are industry titans who have worked with and for major brands on complex briefs; I can’t think of two better people to lead our charge.”
Nicky Hoyland said: “Joining Auspicious is a fantastic step for DBLX. Our strength lies in combining custom creative content and technology to deliver engaging experiences that truly resonate with employees. By bringing this together with Auspicious’ global creative capabilities and Rob’s deep learning expertise, we’re uniquely positioned to help organisations transform how they develop and engage their people.”
Rob Ashcroft commented: “Joining Auspicious Group as Chief Learning Officer at this pivotal moment is incredibly exciting. By bringing together DBLX’s digital expertise with Auspicious’ creative excellence, we’re uniquely positioned to support organisations and transform people experiences.”
