WPP-owned performance marketing agency, Quisma, has announced the purchase of H1, a search marketing agency that has offices in a number of eastern European countries.

Now into its seventh year of operation, H1 specialises in paid search marketing, search engine optimisation, web consulting and training. It currently employs approximately 90 people.

Quisma set up shop in eastern Europe back in 2010 and according to chief executive officer of the company, Ronald Paul, there has been considerably good traction in the region ever since.

“We had a great start on the eastern European market in 2010. That’s why it is only reasonable to pave the way for more growth in this region,” Paul explained. “For this purpose we have been looking for a partner that is at the same time innovative and established on the market.”

H1 Revenue In the Millions

As of December 31, revenues at H1 stood at CZK 75 million, whereas gross assets for the same date were close to CZK 51 million, that is almost €3 million and €2 million respectively.

H1 has a couple of offices in the Czech Republic where it considers itself to be the country’s biggest search marketing agency, in addition to two in Slovakia. It counts Vodafone, Home Credit, Beiersdorf and Tchibo among its clients.

WPP has made no attempt to conceal the fact it is looking develop its services in fast-growing markets and add to its digital media capabilities. The media powerhouse already earns $70 million from the Czech Republic and more than $600 million from central and eastern Europe as a whole.