Key Highlights from the Whistl Spring Magazine: 
Strategic Acquisition & Smarter Marketing Solutions

The Whistl Magazine 2019 Spring Edition is packed with updates on business growth, new services and practical operational advice. This article highlights two of the most valuable features. Whistl’s acquisition of the Spark Ecommerce Group and the launch of its GDPR‑compliant Partially Addressed Mail service.
Whistl Acquires Spark Ecommerce Group: Strengthening Fulfilment and Multichannel Capabilities

A major highlight in this edition is Whistl’s acquisition of the Spark Ecommerce Group, a fulfilment, contact centre and ecommerce services provider based in Gateshead. The acquisition was completed at the end of 2018 and represents Whistl’s second major investment in the fulfilment sector. It strengthens Whistl’s offering for multichannel retailers and expands its reach across parcel, fulfilment and international services. 

The Spark Ecommerce Group, led by Directors Peter Slee and Noel Lambert, includes Spark Response, known for award‑winning contact centre and highly efficient fulfilment services, and Spark Etail, an ethical online retailer supporting brands such as Ethical Superstore, Frank & Faith, Natural Collection and Spirit of Nature. Together, the group reached £15 million in turnover in 2018, supported by its 200‑strong workforce. 

With an impressive portfolio of UK brands, including WW (formerly Weight Watchers), FitFlop, Micro Scooters, Shark Ninja and PGA European Tour. Nick Wells welcomed the acquisition, praising the strong team, respected brand partnerships and shared focus on outstanding customer service.

Peter Slee added they had been seeking a partner who could maintain its entrepreneurial approach while supporting the next phase of growth, making Whistl an ideal strategic fit. 

This acquisition reinforces Whistl’s momentum in the fulfilment and ecommerce services market, enhancing scalability, expertise and customer experience.
New Partially Addressed Mail Service: GDPR‑Compliant Targeting for Smarter Campaigns

To support advertisers seeking effective, GDPR‑compliant marketing channels, Whistl has introduced its Partially Addressed Mail service. This allows marketers to send targeted direct mail to households rather than named individuals, using generic identifiers such as *“The Occupier”* or campaign‑specific titles like *“Holiday Seeker.”

Why This Matters for Marketers

Using geodemographic targeting, advertisers can identify likely customer households with high accuracy, improving campaign relevance and response rates. This method offers a strong ROI while maintaining full compliance with GDPR guidelines.

Whistl also provides post‑campaign evaluation, helping marketers measure the quality and value of the households reached, refine audience modelling and improve future targeting. 

Mark Davies, Managing Director of Whistl Doordrop Media, emphasises how the service integrates effectively with other marketing channels, reaching receptive audiences at the postcode level in the comfort of their homes. This approach is ideal for driving website traffic, in‑store visits or charity donations. 

Easy Adoption for Existing Customers

Anyone using Whistl’s Premier 70 Advertising with Mailmark service automatically qualifies for Partially Addressed Mail. It supports both letter and large‑letter formats, requiring only a simple declaration on the mail piece. This new service gives brands a powerful, compliant and measurable way to reach new customers through the highly trusted medium of direct mail.
Explore More Insights in the Full Magazine

These highlights only scratch the surface of the practical guidance and strategic updates included in the Whistl Magazine Spring 2019 edition. The full magazine also provides expert advice on managing product returns, improving customer satisfaction and strengthening brand loyalty.

Whistl Magazine Spring Issue 2019