RRD, a global leader in marketing, packaging, print, and supply chain solutions, announced today that it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Williams Lea, a provider of tech-enabled business support services to financial, legal, and professional services firms worldwide. The deal, which is set to close in the first quarter of 2025, is contingent upon regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
Through this acquisition, Williams Lea will become part of RRD’s Digital, Creative, and Business Support Services segment, further bolstering its position as a transformative partner for businesses seeking enhanced productivity and operational support. This strategic investment complements RRD’s existing digital marketing offerings, which include a comprehensive suite of full-funnel media services, measurement solutions, and proprietary marketing technology.
Williams Lea, a trusted name in business process transformation, has built a solid reputation for delivering services to clients in highly regulated environments. Its client base spans global industries, particularly in sectors where precision and compliance are critical. With the integration of Williams Lea, RRD aims to strengthen its global footprint and enhance its client-centric approach by offering an expanded portfolio of services and an elevated focus on advanced technologies.
Under the terms of the agreement, Williams Lea will continue to operate under its established brand name, becoming part of RRD’s broader global network. The acquisition aligns with RRD’s long-term growth strategy, which emphasizes strengthening its digital, creative, and business support services and capitalizing on technological advancements to optimize customer engagement and business operations for clients worldwide.
Tom Quinlan, President and CEO of RRD, expressed enthusiasm about the deal, noting, “This acquisition closely aligns with RRD’s growth strategy as we look to build upon our business support offerings and achieve the vision of our Digital, Creative, and Business Support Services segment. By combining our capabilities, industry expertise, and scale, we are well-positioned to offer clients even greater support in maximizing customer engagement and streamlining their operations.”
Clare Hart, CEO of Williams Lea, highlighted the synergy between the two companies, particularly in the context of digital transformation. “As the world becomes more digital and businesses increasingly embrace advanced technologies, integrating Williams Lea’s innovative solutions with RRD’s technology, marketing, and communication expertise will significantly enhance the services we provide to our clients. This acquisition also opens up new opportunities for our 7,000 employees globally,” Hart said.
The acquisition marks an important milestone for both RRD and Williams Lea as they work together to create innovative, tech-driven solutions that address the evolving needs of their clients. For Williams Lea, the partnership with RRD is expected to unlock new growth avenues and further cement its position as a global leader in business support services for financial, legal, and professional services firms.
Nicolas Osio, Assistant Director at Advent, the private equity firm that previously owned Williams Lea, expressed satisfaction with the transaction. “We are proud to have worked closely with Clare and the Williams Lea team to transform the business into a global leader in providing tech-enabled, business-critical support services. We wish them continued success in this next phase of their growth journey alongside RRD.”
The acquisition has been approved by the boards of directors of both RRD and Williams Lea and is now awaiting regulatory clearance, including U.S. antitrust approval. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.
Canson Capital Partners served as the financial advisor to RRD, while Evercore acted as the financial advisor to Advent. Legal counsel for the transaction included BakerHostetler and Pinsent Masons for RRD, and Weil, Gotshal & Manges for Advent.
This deal signals a strong commitment to delivering more comprehensive business support services and advanced marketing solutions, positioning both companies for continued success in an increasingly digital and competitive global market.
