Smart Media Group, a North East-based leader in digital outdoor advertising, media, and communications, is set to significantly expand its UK market presence following a substantial investment led by M Core Ventures.
The infusion of capital marks a pivotal moment in the company’s growth trajectory, providing the resources necessary to scale operations and create new jobs.
M Core Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of the European property collective M Core, has acquired a minority stake in Smart Media Group. This strategic investment underscores M Core’s confidence in the potential of Smart
Media Group’s diversified portfolio, which includes Smart Outdoor, Smart Vision,
Smart Communications, and Smart Media Buying. The capital injection will
enable the company to accelerate its expansion plans across the UK and Europe, particularly in the North East, Scotland and London.
Currently employing 27 staff across its various subsidiaries, Smart Media Group is poised for a considerable expansion, with plans to increase its workforce by 15 over the next year. This growth is driven by the success of its flagship subsidiary, Smart Outdoor, the leading provider of large-format digital out-of- home (DOOH) advertising screens in the North East. The company’s digital
estate, which already comprises 450 screens in key locations such as Tyne
Tunnel, Tyne Bridge, A19, and Murrayfield Stadium, is expected to grow to 2,000 screens by the end of 2025.
The investment will also bolster Smart Vision, another key subsidiary within the group, which specialises in providing LED screens for various sectors including hospitality, sports, retail, travel, and manufacturing. This expansion is anticipated to further strengthen Smart Media Group’s market position and enhance its ability to deliver cutting-edge advertising solutions to a broader range of clients.
Mark Catterall, CEO of Smart Media Group, highlighted said;
“This investment will allow us to continue our focus on technological innovation and exceptional customer service, positioning Smart Media Group as one of the largest digital advertising estates in the UK. We are thrilled to join forces with M Core Ventures and are eager to witness the positive effects of our expansion on the North East and beyond.”
M Core Ventures’ CEO, Max Percy, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting; “We are excited to support Smart Media Group’s ambitious growth plans. The DOOH market presents substantial opportunities, and we see
great potential in this collaboration to drive mutual growth and success.”
As Smart Media Group moves into this next phase, the investment from M Core Ventures is set to drive significant growth, both in terms of market share and employment, solidifying the company’s position as a leader in the UK’s digital
advertising landscape.
The much anticipated Stack St.James’ opened in August 2024 and sits just outside the infamous St.James’ Park, home to Newcastle United.
Like the other Stack locations at Seaburn and Lincoln, the St.James’ one will boast street food vendors, showcase a host of live music & DJ’s, as well as hosting live sport screenings. Saturdays will see it being turned into a full-on fan
zone before the big game.
Smart Outdoor is proud to be part of this fantastic venture, with its huge D48 screens created and installed by the team at Smart, as it looks set to become one of Newcastle’s newest and most popular venues.
Contact Smart Outdoor today to feature your business on one of the large
format Stack screens!
Earlier this year Smart Outdoor acquired a 50-site network of advertising screens across the Marton’s Pub family, in a move to create a new and innovative way for brands to advertise.
The screens are powered by Vendi Tech and are housed within a pub vending machine, located at key footfall areas within these busy pubs allowing advertisers to reach an audience in a relaxed and social setting.
Thinking about outdoor media for your company? Get in touch today with Smart Outdoor and explore their expansive offering in the Northeast and beyond to elevate your message.
smartoutdoor.co.uk [email protected]
