Data science firm is acquired by retail data and insight company
Retail data and insight business, The Local Data Company Group, has acquired Leeds-based Edge Analytics, which specialises in demographic data analysis.
The deal brings together Edge Analytics’ expertise in geography, data science and forecasting methods and The Local Data Company’s expertise in data and insights for the physical retail market.
The Local Data Company (LDC) is a location insight firm which physically tracks every retail and leisure business across the country.
Its data powers strategy and decision making for clients working across retail, leisure, local government, out-of-home media, investment, property and financial services.
The addition of Edge Analytics data, insights and expertise expands LDC’s insight proposition to now include: Demographic Forecasting & Analysis, Pupil Projections, Housing Needs Toolkit, and Resource & Area Optimisation.
Following the acquisition, LDC will be investing further in the Edge Analytics office at the Nexus Innovation Hub in Leeds and also in its headcount as it look to build the business.
Barnaby Oswald, co-founder and CEO of The Local Data Company Group, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing the Edge Analytics business and all of its data science and forecasting expertise into the Local Data Company Group fold.
“The acquisition will allow us to significantly develop our forecasting capabilities and deliver much more advanced demographics to our clients.
“The capabilities of the Edge Analytics team perfectly complement our current strengths and match our exacting standards for data accuracy.”
Dr Peter Boden, founder of Edge Analytics, added: “In a new and very exciting phase of its development, Edge Analytics is very pleased to announce it has joined the Local Data Company Group, integrating its specialist data science expertise with the UK’s leading provider of retail location solutions.
“The move is an ideal and timely match of product technology, data and expertise; the latest step in LDC’s development as a multi-faceted provider of data solutions to UK businesses.
“This is great news for both staff and existing clients, providing a platform for long-term growth and development within a unique, ambitious and innovative data and data science business.
“Edge Analytics will provide LDC with a presence in Leeds, reinforcing a commitment to the thriving Nexus community and its long-standing relationship with the University of Leeds.”
