ntegrated content development and media service business, the Omnilab Media Group has acquired New Zealand visual effects (VFX) company Oktobor.
Christopher Mapp, managing director of Omnilab said, “The acquisition of Oktobor is an important strategic investment by the Omnilab Media Group and furthers our long term commitment to growth in New Zealand and across Asia Pacific. We already have a strong presence in the New Zealand market through AAV and DubSat New Zealand and we will be looking to bring Oktobor together with these Omnilab brands to provide significant extra value to our clients and give Oktobor tremendous new capabilities in asset management and delivery.”
Oktobor founder Geoff Dixon said, “I feel very proud with the creative achievements that Oktobor has enjoyed. I am positive that as part of such an exciting new family, these creative achievements will continue. I would like to convey my gratitude to the staff and all our clients that have supported us thus far helping make Oktobor the great company that it is. We are all looking forward to a very bright future.”
Meanwhile, Oktobor’s general manager, Patrick McAteer described the acquisition by Omnilab as a “fantastic and very positive move for the staff and the New Zealand market, providing the backing to enable Oktobor to reach a new level of creative service that will maintain our presence as a high end visual effects company, both locally and globally. We’re excited about the opportunities being part of the Omnilab Media Group creates to extend our work with current clients and attract new business opportunities.”
News of the acquisition was well received in the New Zealand market.
Marty Collins, head of TV for Clemenger BBDO commented, “This is the best news in what has already been a turbulent year. We are of course delighted that Oktobor will continue to operate in NZ, providing the same outstanding level of expertise and creativity they have sustained since inception. NZ needs a strong competitive post-production environment that meets world class standards.”
Ian Gibbons, managing director of Exile Films, added, “Great news about the Omnilab Media Group acquiring Oktobor - in my opinion it couldn’t be a better marriage. Not only is it encouraging knowing we still have a competitive top-end market in post-production in Auckland, but we will certainly be looking forward to the advancements in technology.”
Christopher Mapp concluded, “I am very impressed with the strength of the Oktobor brand, its creative reputation and the commitment and passion of its entire staff. We are delighted that Oktobor is now a key part of the Omnilab Media Group and look forward to growing Oktobor’s capability in the advertising, entertainment and corporate markets. We will be working closely with Geoff Dixon and Patrick McAteer to help realize the further growth potential for the company.”
