WDG says QLD acquisition will push it past $15m

Stan Beer
Tuesday, 28 February 2006 07:16

IT Industry - Strategy

Web development and services group, WDG, has acquired Brisbane-based web and software development agency, Alfresco Design and says the acquisition will boost its 2006 revenue to more than $15 million.

According to WDG, the acquisition is earnings accretive and will bring its total staff count to 135 Australia-wide, making it the largest web agency in Australia with offices in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, and Brisbane.

WDG’s managing director, Mr Arthur Spanos said today, “It has always been our ambition to expand into Queensland. Southeast Queensland is the second fastest growth corridor in the world presenting huge opportunities for businesses to invest and grow in this region.

"Alfresco is a strong fit with our business and provides us with the resources and capabilities that complement our vision of offering our customers an end-to-end web solution. Alfresco also has a similar culture to WDG based on technical excellence and a deep understanding of the Web."

Alfresco Design’s client base includes organisations such as Energex, St George, WestPac and Super-cheap Auto, as well as Federal and State government.

Llew Jury, executive director of Alfresco sees the acquisition as an important step in the company's evolution.

"Being part of WDG will allow our staff to have the opportunities that flow from a national company, while our customers will be able to benefit from the skills of a larger organisation focused on delivering true ROI," he says.

WDG says its business has grown by over 50% over the past year, on the back of strong growth in online services which has helped WDG win new large clients including Transurban, Buena Vista Home Entertainment, VicUrban and BHP Billiton.

WDG says it plans to explore further acquisition opportunities this year as part of the company’s growth strategy and intends to boost its Brisbane staff headcount by a further 30% over the coming year.