LDC-backed Hybrid recognised by the BVCA for transformational growth

LDC portfolio company Hybrid has been recognised for its transformational growth and commitment to innovation and ESG as part of the BVCA’s 2024 Vision awards.

Vision 2024 celebrates the standout management teams of last year backed by private equity and venture capital, recognising both portfolio companies and the impact of their investors. The annual award series takes into account growth, competitiveness, innovation, ESG and overcoming industry challenges, with an additional focus on the future and businesses’ sustainability credentials.

Bristol-headquartered digital media company Hybrid has been named one of this year’s winners in the Wales and South West. Hybrid provides a full suite of digital marketing services, including campaign development, media planning and buying, content creation and data analytics.

The management team, which was backed by LDC in June 2021, was praised for its ambitious organic and acquisitive growth strategy, which has delivered transformational growth, new multimillion pound contracts and an expanded global presence. Its recent acquisitions include Prompt Marketing, a higher education social marketing agency, and Crisp Digital, a digital development agency – which expanded the business’ reach in the education sector and AI capability, respectively.

Hybrid was also commended for its commitment to innovation. In 2023, the business launched ‘Reeled,’ a platform that integrates short-form video content into university websites, helping it to stay ahead of industry trends. It also introduced a real-time data feed during the UK university Clearing period, in partnership with UCAS and The Guardian, to provide universities with critical, up-to-date information, further solidifying Hybrid’s market-leading position.

In addition, the judges recognised Hybrid’s strong ESG principles, including it signing up to a two-year net positive roadmap, dedication to diversity and inclusion within its organisation and the support its gives to local charities

The judges commented: ‘’LDC’s investment has not only facilitated Hybrid’s rapid growth but also ensured the company is well-positioned for long-term success. The partnership has strengthened Hybrid’s financial structure, expanded its international reach, and reinforced its ESG commitments, making it a standout leader in the higher education marketing sector’’.

Our congratulations go out to the other businesses that have been recognised in the BVCA’s Vision 2024: Wales & South West. You can view the full list of winners and read about their achievements here.