Chilliapple joins strategic partner Smarter Capital

Web and app development agency Chilliapple today announces it is joining Smarter Capital, a rapidly growing group of businesses in the technology sector.

The 50% stake reflects the success of Chilliapple since it was founded by Nick Sharps and Lokesh Gupta in 2008 and marks the beginning of a strategy to transform Chilliapple into the go-to development agency in the UK.

For nearly two decades, Chilliapple has built out its agency offer across eCommerce, SAAS, app and website development, web design, SEO and dedicated developers for hire. Its clients range from starts-ups to small and medium sized enterprises, from new brands to household names.  The deal follows a period of strong growth for Chilliapple, generating the highest income in the firm’s history in 2024/25.

The partnership with Smarter Capital aims to accelerate Chilliapple through organic growth as it takes advantage of the growing needs of the group businesses for web and app development.

Since it was established, Chilliapple has set out to be a different type of agency. The firm brings together the best of India with the best of the UK. Bespoke design and focused project management in the UK alongside high-end developers in India.

Lokesh said “I am delighted and excited about this new venture and the experience and opportunity that Smarter Capital brings to Chilliapple. I thank Nick for his contribution to our growth and I wish him all the very best in his future endeavours”.

Karl Paul, Chief Acquisitions Officer at Smarter Capital: “Chilliapple is a key strategic addition to our group, enhancing our in-house capabilities to support our expanding portfolio of companies. It also provides a strong foundation for substantial growth, both organically and through acquisition. We are excited to collaborate closely with Lokesh, Sophie, and the wider Chilliapple team”.

Following the announcement of this exciting new partnership, Lokesh Gupta remains a Chilliapple shareholder and continues to lead the Development hub in India and co-founder Nick Sharps leaves the business to concentrate on other ventures. Sophie Spencer-Stephens, Commercial Director at Chilliapple, joins the board and leads the UK Chilliapple team.