Following an equity restructure, Outform, which has 250 employees, has become a significant shareholder in The Shopper Agency.

The agency conducts 35% of its business outside the UK, but will remain headquartered in Leeds, with the new partnership linking it to Outform’s offices in both London and Miami.

With expertise in behavioural research, shopper marketing and retail design, the agency regularly works for Philips, Microsoft and PlayStation.

The Shopper Agency was founded five years ago and has tripled in size over the last 24 months. It now employs 18 people and works with a string of international brands including Karndean, Lucas Bols, SHS drinks, Bernafon and Fanatics.

Outform provides comprehensive retail and brand solutions, supporting clients such as Google, Samsung and Apple with projects ranging from initial strategy to mass production and post-installation support.

Martin Fawcett, founder of The Shopper Agency, said: “This is a very exciting time for The Shopper Agency, at a critical point in our business plan. Integrating with Outform bolsters our existing capabilities and scalability whilst reinforcing plans for growth. It opens huge global opportunities for both teams, allowing us to help more brand and retail owners to future-proof their customer experience.

“Consumers now live and shop in the experience economy – they no longer look to buy just products and services, but seek something more authentic, memorable and shareable. Today, attracting new consumers or keeping existing ones engaged takes us beyond price, convenience and location.”

James Haggas, managing director of Outform EMEA, added: “Outform has made some significant global investments in recent months and we are delighted to embark on a joint strategy and growth plan with Shopper Agency. Together we are seeking to partner with brands who recognize the need for innovation both in the online and physical realms. We can take consumer experience to a whole new level.”