Agency roundup: Invested; Mixd; and more

Two experienced media agency professionals have launched a new venture in Leeds.

Invested is the brainchild of Will Hughes and Chris Quinn, who first worked together as graduates at Brilliant Media 14 years ago.

Following a decade at different agencies, most recently the duo both held senior positions together at IMA.

They have worked with brands including Wren Kitchens, Expedia, First Bus, Flutter Group, Marriott and WWF.

Services offered by the new agency include media strategy; above-the-line media; performance/digital media; media measurement; auditing and consultation; and training.

Invested already has a roster of clients across a range of sectors including Luminate Education Group, Brass Monkey and Lightspeed Broadband.

The agency is looking to recruit its first team member before the end of the year, with a focus on building a team around senior industry talent.

Hughes said: “The idea of starting our own agency was something we have talked about for well over a decade, and it felt like the time was right.

“We bring the best of both worlds together – my career headed more in the direction of digital strategy, while Chris focused on above-the-line planning and media buying.

“I’ve worked in independent agencies which have scaled up, whereas Chris has worked for the biggest agency networks.

“We feel we’re uniquely placed to cherry pick from all the fantastic things we’ve learnt and experienced over our careers to create something very special. It’s also very freeing to be able to operate without the inevitable trappings of a large agency.”

Quinn added: “Whatever people feel about it, we’re gearing up for a future where AI is going to play more of a role.

“That doesn’t have to be a negative – it can be a huge positive when used in the right way.

“We see it as being a way to free up our time from some of the laborious admin, so clients get more of our focused attention on the important stuff.

“Fundamental to any great media campaign is really knowing what you want and need at the planning stages, which AI can help us with as we use reliable and credible research and insight to formulate meaningful plans for our clients.

“And then, of course, making sure we measure the results in the short, medium and long-term.”

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A Leeds digital agency specialising in making websites more accessible for the NHS is marking 20 years in business with new expansion plans.

Mixd was founded by Phil Shackleton and Mike Danford to provide user-centred digital design and services.

The agency employs 16 and is now seeking to expand through a buy-and-build strategy. It recently won new contracts in Wales and Scotland to cover the whole of the UK.

Shackleton said: “We’ve built a fantastic team and business over the last 20 years with a reputation as leaders in web accessibility.

“Now, it’s time to take our company to the next level as we accelerate our growth plans with a sustainable acquisition strategy that will complement our organic growth.

“We have been promoting web accessibility and user-centred design principles for 20 years, creating user-friendly digital services that are intuitive and simple to navigate. It’s a great platform to build on for the future.”

As specialists in web accessibility and experts working with UK public sector organisations, Mixd supports customers by offering accessibility auditing, training, and compliance advice.

Danford added: “With more patients relying on digital tools for appointments, prescriptions, and health advice, ensuring that these platforms are usable by everyone, regardless of ability, is essential.

“Non-compliance could result in patients being excluded from essential services, exacerbating health inequalities and limiting access to care.

“Our whole team is passionate about the difference great, and accessible design can make to users. It’s driven our business for 20 years.”

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