Mesma and SDN Merge to Forge New Education Tech Powerhouse
Deal News | Jul 08, 2025 | B Daily

Mesma, an education technology company based in Newcastle, has merged with Kent-based Strategic Development Network (SDN) to create a new entity named SDN Mesma Group. The merger aims to bolster their national presence and diversify their offerings in technical education and employability support by collaborating with government, employers, and post-16 education providers. The newly formed group retains its existing brand names and locations across the North and South of England. The leadership team, consisting of founders Lou Doyle, Carole Loader, Colin Bentwood, and Gerry Baker, emphasizes continuity and growth through combined expertise. This merger ensures the security of 20 skilled roles, promises five new jobs by 2026, and aims for an additional £3 million in revenue over three years. A significant update accompanies the merger, as Mesma enhances its software platform with AI features to streamline quality improvement processes.
Sectors
- Education Technology
- Advisory Services
Geography
- United Kingdom – The merging companies are based in Newcastle and Kent, thus focusing on the United Kingdom for their operations and market expansion.
Industry
- Education Technology – The merger involves companies specializing in education technology, indicating their focus on leveraging technology to improve educational processes and support.
- Advisory Services – SDN's role as an advisory and programme management provider highlights the advisory services aspect of the merger.
Financials
- 3 million – The targeted revenue increase for the SDN Mesma Group over the next three years.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesma | Merging Company | Company | A quality management specialist in education technology headquartered in Newcastle. |
| Strategic Development Network (SDN) | Merging Company | Company | An advisory and programme management provider based in Kent. |
| Lou Doyle | Leadership Board Member | Person | One of the members of the leadership board post-merger. |
| Carole Loader | Leadership Board Member | Person | One of the members of the leadership board post-merger. |
| Colin Bentwood | Leadership Board Member | Person | One of the members of the leadership board post-merger. |
| Gerry Baker | Leadership Board Member | Person | One of the members of the leadership board post-merger. |