Global expansion looks good after £1.2m deal

Jun 12 2008 by Andrew Mernin, The Journal

MULTIMEDIA production company Mere Mortals has landed a £1.2m deal with an international video games firm which is expected to boost considerably its global expansion drive.

The Newcastle-based business, which handles video games, TV, film and audio post-production, will work on an unnamed title set for international release early next year.

The contract will see managing director Steve Walmsley fly out to the company’s fledgling New Zealand operation to interview for 40 new job positions. Since the New Zealand offices opened six months ago, creating a 24-hour business, Mere Mortals has seen a surge in demand from clients seeking its skills in video games, TV, film and audio post-production, motion graphics and special effects.

Its credits include blockbuster films such as Danny Boyle’s 28 Weeks Later and Sunshine, and the best-selling PDC Championship Darts game.

On the back of those successes, plus a series of recent contract wins, the business is now recruiting a number of staff for roles at its overseas offices.

Mr Walmsley said: “Demand for our services has really taken off since we set up a truly global business, and we need to increase staff numbers. 

“We are particularly pleased with this new £1.2m contract, which is the realisation of our plan to expand our games operations and increase our business on both sides of the world.

“Having a 24-hour operation is ideal for our business model. With a worldwide film and games client base it’s immaterial where our business is located, as long as we have the right communications and transport links.” 

The managing director added that he had made the decision to fly to New Zealand after the country received hundreds of job applications there.

It’s immaterial where our business is located as long as we have the right communications