I was in and out of HIT Barcelona and Mobile 2.0 last week but in the final hour I finally managed to pin down someone I have known in the mobile industry for a while now Paul Strzelecki. I had a couple of reader questions to put to him about Neo Media from our readers.
We found a lovely quiet spot in the middle of Palau de Congress and reflected on how quiet it was being there when Mobile World Congress wasn’t on. We also laughed that no one had realised that cars could actually drive into and up to the conference as it’s usually completely sealed off during the February show.
Anyway, this is what we spoke about.
Bena: Paul. I hope you are not too stressed to speak to me!
Paul:No, actually. I love being in Barcelona and there is a lot of work on at the moment and Yorkville has closed two very strong deals in the past few weeks. Sorry, I only found time in the last hour though – there have been non-stop meetings all week.
Bena: OK, so thanks for finding some time today. I know you are really busy. But you did a great job moderating just now.
Paul: Thanks. I spent some time finding something interesting to comment on at the start of the panel to set the tone.
Bena:Yes. It worked but you said more on SpinVox than Neo Media!
Paul:Ha. You might have missed it but it was relevant because SpinVox spoke just minutes before.
Bena: Aha. Yes. I did miss it.
Bena: Anyway. How is Neo Media going?
Paul: Super. There are some huge things in the pipeline and the company is in a strong position.
Bena:I had some readers ask me, why Yorkville only gave NeoMedia a bridging loan (can’t remember the exact amount) and not funding?
Paul:Bena. Yorkville’s business modelis basically loans. That is what we do. We are not a VC. So it’s not about getting a stake of the business. It’s about helping the business grown and gain value. Yorkville have been great to Neo Media and now Neo Media is on its way up.
Bena:Oh. I didn’t realise that. So, that is your business model. So do you have a relationship with Neom or do you just give them money?
Paul:Personally, I think that Neo Media is an amazing company and am working extremely hard to make it succeed with Iain and the rest of the team.
Bena: OK Paul. Thanks that was it really, but it’s been great to catch up with you again. I will be interviewing Iain in July and let me know before anyone else what the big deals are!
