Dundee design and digital agency hails new acquisition, client wins and rebrand

Dundee-based design and digital group Avian Communications Network has hailed a raft of client wins and expansion, prompting a rebranding of the business.

Nial Chapman, Elaine Fleming, Vicki Anderson, Scott McCallum outside the former Broughty Ferry Congregational Church where the consultancy has operated from for some 14 years.

The firm, now rebranded as Altar Group, said it has been boosted by the acquisition of a fourth business, Ginger PR.

The group encompasses a suite of marketing services businesses including Avian, a design studio specialising in brand development and graphic design; Blue2 Digital, a web design, development and digital marketing agency; and Kolabo, a digital research and development consultancy.

It said the addition of Ginger PR bolstered the agency’s “creative edge and breadth of services”.

Ginger PR, founded by Elaine Fleming and with 11 years of trading under its belt, has worked with clients including Peter Vardy, Fasque House, Kintyre Gin and Scottish Dental Care (SDC) Group.

Scott McCallum, chief executive of Altar Group, said: “During lockdown we managed to secure several significant new business wins from Walkers Shortbread, Bahamas Petroleum Company, The Scottish Gallery, Highland Game and Continuum Attractions, a UK-wide visitor attraction business whose sites include The Real Mary King’s Close, York’s Chocolate Story and Emirates Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth.

“With this significant boost in our client base, along with the acquisition of Ginger PR it is the perfect time to rebrand and reposition our offering.

“2020 hasn’t been the year anyone expected but despite a complete change in the way we work, the economy, and client budgets, Altar Group has risen to the challenge.”

He added: “Previously, with three companies under the parent umbrella, we wanted to create a clearer brand and collaborative way of working. The acquisition of Ginger PR provided the ideal opportunity to do so.”

Fleming, who will retain her position as lead director within Ginger PR, said: “Ginger PR has had a long-standing relationship with Avian, working on a number of successful client campaigns together.

“I am thrilled to be part of the future of Altar Group, bringing the Ginger PR team and brand with me.”

The business is located in the former Broughty Ferry Congregational Church where the consultancy has operated from for some 14 years.

Digital director Nial Chapman said: “Since the pandemic hit we have been extremely busy helping our clients generate more business online.

“We are continuing to support our clients through these difficult times and have achieved some stunning results. We also have brought exciting new clients onboard, both national and international brands, and are speaking to new prospects every day.”

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