In a strategic move to expand its footprint in the burgeoning Out-of-home (OOH) advertising space, MultiplyGroup (ADX: MULTIPLY), an Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company, has acquired 100% of BackLite Media, a premier Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The deal encompasses all operating entities of BackLite Media and is a key step in Multiply Group’s broader strategy to enhance and consolidate its Media and Communications vertical.

With a portfolio that comprises 86% digital and 14% static advertising solutions, BackLite Media has established itself as one of the leading media companies in the UAE. Through notable partnerships, such as with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), BackLite Media has secured prime advertising locations including The Landmark Series along the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road, as well as in high-profile malls, destinations, and cinema advertising venues like The Galleria Mall, Al Qana, Dubai Festival City, and more. The extensive reach positions BackLite Media asa pivotal force in the UAE’s media landscape.

This acquisition seamlessly complements Multiply Group’s existing portfolio, which includes Media 247 and Viola Communications, and underscores the Group’s dedication to investing in profitable enterprises and creating synergies. The Group’s strategic pivot into DOOH advertising aligns with market trends and future growth opportunities.

Samia Bouazza, Group CEO and Managing Director of MultiplyGroup, commented: “The full acquisition of BackLite Media is another strategic milestone in our journey to build an integrated multi-brand media powerhouse. This expansion underpins our commitment to driving shareholder value by creating long-term growth and further strengtheningMultiply Media’s valuation as we continue readying the vertical for its eventual listing.”

Bengt Bendeus, Founder and Chairman of BackLite Media, noted: “The journey of BackLite has been one of constant innovation inthe UAE’s OOH advertising space. This acquisition by Multiply Group is a pivotal milestone, enhancing our capabilities and contributing significantly to the evolution of the advertising landscape of the UAE and beyond.”

Jawad Hassan, Head of the Media andCommunications vertical at Multiply Group, stated: “OOH advertising has evolved rapidly in the last few years in the UAE and BackLite has been at the very forefront, capitalizing on this growth. We believe that this acquisition will unlock immense value for Multiply Media as we continue consolidating premium media assets across the OOH sector. With BackLite’s robust market presence, prime locations, and exceptional team, together; we will deliver innovative and impactful advertising solutions in the UAE and beyond.”                        

James Bicknell, CEO of BackLite Media, added, “This impending partnership with Multiply Group opens a new chapter for BackLite Media. We are thrilled to expand our capabilities and continue to lead in the DOOH advertising space with enhanced reach and resources.”

Earlier this year, BackLite Media partnered with multiple Programmatic platforms including Place Exchange, AdForm, Hivestack, Vistar and Google DV360to accelerate the programmatic transformation of DOOH in the UAE, providing increased opportunities for DOOH to be included in omnichannel marketing strategies.

The acquisition is poised to transform the DOOH industry, introducing innovative and impactful advertising solutions in the UAE and beyond.

About Multiply Group

With its trademark growth mindset, Multiply Group PJSC is an Abu Dhabi-based holding company that invests in transformative cash-generating businesses it understands.

Multiply Group will continue to deploy capital across its two distinct arms, both of which follow a disciplined approach to investing and ensure consistent, sustainable value creation for our shareholders in the short-medium and long-term:

Multiply, the investments and operations in long-term strategic verticals, currently Mobility, Energy and Utilities, Media and Communications, Beauty and Wellness, and Fashion and Living. Anchor investments provide long term recurring income, through which bolt-on acquisitions are made.

Multiply+, a flexible, sector-agnostic and opportunistic investment arm.

For more information, visit www.multiply.ae

‍

Here at BackLite, we’ve recently launched the first edition of ‘SpotLite’, our new annual magazine dedicated to the dynamic world of out-of-home media. As part of the magazine, our CEO, James Bicknell, shared his thoughts on the future of outdoor advertising in Dubai & Abu Dhabi. Here’s what he had to say:

‍

As digital becomes more prevalent, we continue adapting our product portfolio in the UAE. Digital outdoor advertising, using digital screens and displays, allows for real-time updates, targeted messaging, and even the ability to track metrics and gather consumer data. This means that advertisers can now reach their desired audience with precision and accuracy, leading to a better return on investment for the advertiser and a more engaging experience for the consumer.

‍

At BackLite Media, we’ve been at the forefront of this shift towards digital outdoor advertising in the UAE. We have implemented new technologies and leveraged data to create dynamic, interactive, personalised ads that adapt to the context and audience, allowing for a more relevant and effective advertising experience.

But it’s not just about the technology; as a responsible and ethical company, we understand the importance of placing our digital media and displays in the most elite locations, respecting consumers’ privacy, and being mindful of the environment. We are proud to announce that we are working towards being fully sustainable and carbon neutral by 2026. Being a good corporate citizen is just as important as providing our clients with the best advertising solutions.

‍

In conclusion, the future of outdoor advertising in the UAE is digital, interactive, sustainable, and truly exciting. At BackLite Media, we’re committed to staying ahead of the game and providing our clients with the most innovative and effective advertising solutions. With a focus on new technologies, data, responsible advertising, and sustainability, we’re confident that the future of outdoor advertising in the UAE is dynamic. And we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this zestful and ever-evolving country.

‍