Coatbridge-based web and software development specialist, Hybrid Anchor, has recently acquired Edinburgh-based tech support firm Off Canvas, a move anticipated to generate 40 new jobs over the next three years.
The acquisition marks a significant milestone for Hybrid Anchor as it celebrates its third year in business. The company is planning to introduce a variety of key roles across Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Manchester, further strengthening its presence both locally and internationally. Based in North Lanarkshire, Hybrid Anchor has been expanding its global workforce, with many of the newly created jobs set to be based in Scotland.
Although the financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed, the strategic move aims to alleviate industry pressure by balancing project execution with enhanced help desk support.
Founded by Phil Holt in Edinburgh in September 2020, Off Canvas has built a reputation for providing day-to-day tech support, specialising in PHP-based content management systems. The firm’s prominent client base includes Colleges Scotland, United Farmers Ltd, and Forest Carbon, key players in their respective industries.
Since the acquisition, Hybrid Anchor has successfully retained 100% of Off Canvas’s client base. John Loudon, the Glasgow entrepreneur and managing director of Hybrid Anchor, believes this acquisition will be a game-changer for the digital agency sector.
“Negotiations have been ongoing for some time, and I am delighted to conclude the acquisition. This deal allows Hybrid Anchor to enhance its core competencies in software, mobile applications, and website development while offering specialized support services through Off Canvas,” Loudon stated.
He added, “We have grown successfully since our inception in March 2021, and our business model is so robust that we will not only retain the current staff but also recruit new talent. Our three-year plan involves creating around 40 jobs. By dedicating resources solely to ongoing support, we will prioritize efficient issue resolution, ensuring client satisfaction. Off Canvas stands out in the agency landscape for its unique focus on reliable and responsive customer support, and we intend to retain its independence and strong brand identity.”
Hybrid Anchor’s diverse client base includes renowned names such as publishing giant DC Thomson, Danish interior designers BoConcept Scotland, and Glasgow pharmaceutical supply company Teleta.
“We are a consultancy-led agency, putting strategy and digital at the forefront of our operations. Moving forward, we will continue to focus on web software, web development, and mobile application development,” Loudon explained.
Expressing optimism about the company’s future, Loudon commented, “With this cornerstone now in place, I expect our business to grow rapidly. We are a local company with a global outlook, and we have leveraged our access to the best talent, regardless of location. Key senior roles will certainly be introduced in the UK, with several staff expected to be based in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Manchester.”
“This acquisition is a pivotal step in our strategic plan, and we are excited about the opportunities it presents. By decoupling our support contracts and having an entire company focused on support, we will remain agile, maintaining the pace and quality our clients have come to expect.”
Phil Holt, the founder of Off Canvas, expressed his confidence in the acquisition, stating, “Off Canvas is a unique business model that provides clients with exceptional ongoing support for their websites and web applications. With John’s energy and ideas further enhancing the concept I created, I fully expect the business to reach new heights under his guidance.”
