Widecells calls in Unilad bosses to launch new media marketing firm
Stem cell firm Widecells has enlisted the help of three former Unilad executives to launch a new media marketing firm as part of a rebrand that will see it renamed to Iconic Labs.
John Quinlan, Liam Harrington and Sam Asante will run the new business, which will be focused on providing online marketing, content and technology products to brands.
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The newly-formed Iconic Labs will operate six divisions that will work together and as standalone propositions in a bid to ensure multiple revenue streams. Shares in Widecells soared more than 50 per cent following the announcement.
Chief executive John Quinlan said: “We understand how to build a business and generate revenue in the new media space. We have a unique proposition, in an extraordinarily high growth area.
“Exciting times are ahead; we’re going to grasp every opportunity to build a business that creates value for our clients, ourselves and our shareholders.”
Iconic Labs said the management trio oversaw revenue growth of £5.5m a year during their time at Unilad, which was bought out of administration last year by rival publisher Ladbible.
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Widecells executive chairman David Sefton said: “Iconic Labs represents an exceptional opportunity for this company.
“The skills and experience of the team in the new media marketing space, as shown through their track record at Unilad, the world’s largest social first publisher, can deliver an exciting and uniquely positioned business.”