A PUBLIC relations company based in Basingstoke has been acquired by a top global PR agency.

Touchdown, a technology communications agency that has its UK office in Basingstoke, has been acquired by Ruder Finn, one of the world's largest independent global communications and creative agencies.

Touchdown specialises in enterprise technology innovation ranging from mobility, cyber security, data protection/management and storage, to networks, communications, big data, Artificial Intelligence and cloud.

With the acquisition, Touchdown’s 65 specialists will join Ruder Finn’s tech team to provide the global firm a presence in Basingstoke, while fortifying the US tech footprint with an additional office.  

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Ruder Finn chief executive Kathy Bloomgarden said: “We are thrilled to be bringing the Touchdown team onboard.

“Touchdown’s expertise in championing emerging enterprise technologies through expert storytelling will bring additional competitive edge to our global technology and innovation practice. This acquisition represents a significant milestone in our ongoing strategy to build strong global leadership in our technology activities.”

As part of this deal, Touchdown employees across the US, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Australia and New Zealand will continue to work independently under the Touchdown leadership team.

Touchdown chief executive James Carter will report directly to Ms Bloomgarden.

The company said there will be no redundancies or layoffs as a result of the acquisition.

Mr Carter said: “It was clear that the core Ruder Finn values centred around transparency, decency and honesty made this big decision a relatively easy one for us.

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“We wanted to find a home where we could accelerate the next chapter of the Touchdown story with a partner who shared similar goals, ambitions and values and we felt Ruder Finn would be the best choice for our next stage.

“On a personal level, as we entered discussions with several prospective buyers, there was a clear and close alignment of values when we met Kathy and her leadership team, particularly in terms of people culture, global ambitions and how to manage growth successfully.”