A significant development has unfolded in Macclesfield as a local tele-sales and contract publishing enterprise changes ownership. The firm, previously part of Zinc Media, is now under the control of Specialist Business Media after a £100,000 cash acquisition.
This transition marks a pivotal change for Zinc Media, allowing it to concentrate on expanding its core competencies in television and brand content production. The sale, targeting operational efficiency, is expected to conclude by the end of October.
Zinc Media’s Strategic Divestment
In a strategic move, London-based Zinc Media has divested its legacy tele-sales contract publishing division to Specialist Business Media, part of The Datateam Group. This divestment is aligned with Zinc Media’s broader strategy to sharpen its focus on television and brand content production, a sector where it has experienced substantial growth.
The sale price was set at £100,000, and Zinc Media intends to channel the proceeds into its core activities. This decision reflects a desire to optimise resource allocation within the group.
Background of Zinc Communicate Publishing
Zinc Communicate Publishing, established in 1995, has undergone several transformations over the decades. Initially known as McMillan Scott, it was acquired by Ten Alps in 2006 before evolving into its current form in 2021.
The company specialises in tele-sales and contract publishing, managing advertising and commercial inventory across various sectors including construction and freight. A notable achievement is its continuation of a long-term partnership contract in building control guides production for local authorities in England.
Financial Performance and Implications
Despite its historical significance, Zinc Communicate Publishing has shown mixed financial performance in recent years. In FY23, it reported revenues of £2.2 million but incurred a slight pre-tax loss of £0.05 million.
With net assets reported at £0.8 million as of the end of 2023, the business is considered non-core within Zinc Media due to its intensive management requirements and decreased profitability.
The sale process, facilitated by Trillium Partners, represents a step towards improved operational efficiency for Zinc Media, allowing the company to concentrate its efforts and resources on more profitable segments.
Implications for The Datateam Group
For Maidstone-based The Datateam Group, the acquisition presents an opportunity to integrate the tele-sales expertise and established client base of Zinc Communicate into its diverse portfolio of publications and events.
The Datateam Group is renowned for its presence in sectors such as construction and healthcare, and this addition is expected to further enhance its capabilities in delivering targeted content across multiple industries.
Zinc Media’s Future Trajectory
The acquisition allows Zinc Media to better align its resources with areas demonstrating rapid growth, particularly television and film-based production. Chief Executive Mark Browning highlighted this as a strategic realignment towards profitable growth.
Zinc Media has doubled in size in recent years, reflecting significant expansion in its core operational areas. The disposal enables enhanced focus on producing innovative television and brand content.
Acknowledgement and Future Prospects
Mark Browning expressed his gratitude towards the Macclesfield management team, acknowledging their significant contributions over the years.
He expressed optimism for the future prospects of both Zinc Media and the Macclesfield unit under Specialist Business Media, suggesting a promising trajectory for both entities post-acquisition.
Conclusion
The disposal of Zinc Communicate Publishing signals a forward-thinking move for Zinc Media, aligning with their strategic objectives to streamline operations and focus on high-growth sectors.
This acquisition marks a new chapter not only for Zinc Media and The Datateam Group but also sets a promising course for Zinc Communicate Publishing’s future within its new organisational home.
The acquisition of Zinc Communicate Publishing by The Datateam Group underlines a strategic refocus for Zinc Media Group. This realignment promises to bolster their television and brand content sectors, setting the stage for future growth, while also allowing Specialist Business Media to enhance its impact on the publishing landscape.