Visual Media takes majority stake in re:fine
December 4, 2014
US post-production and digital distribution facility Visual Data Media Services has acquired a majority stake in leading London-based content processing and digital-media provider re:fine.
The deal will provide both partners access to each other’s markets, technologies and infrastructure. Both re:fine and Visual Data have established successful business models, client bases and third-party accreditations as preferred vendors for content networks and broadcasters, including Netflix, iTunes, Google and the UK’s ITV.
John Trautman, CEO of Visual Data, will head the newly merged company as CEO and chairman, with re:fine CEO Symon Roue leading the European operation as managing director. The entire management teams of both companies will remain in place to drive forward Visual Data’s ongoing global strategy.
Trautman said: “This acquisition will provide a seamless client experience across multiple time zones while simultaneously increasing operational capacity and efficiencies. Client demands have led us to this expansion into Europe and we have found in re:fine a company that shares our vision, excellent client relationships and impressive technological expertise.”