Banlek, a leading Brazilian platform for photographers in Latin America, has announced its ambitious international expansion with acquisitions in Paraguay and Portugal. The company, which has steadily grown its presence in Brazil’s photography industry, is now looking to solidify its position on the global stage with strategic purchases that will allow it to reach new markets and support its growing community of photographers.

International Expansion Strategy

Banlek’s latest moves in the international market include the acquisition of UliSite, a photography platform based in Paraguay, and a parallel purchase of its Portuguese counterpart. These acquisitions form part of a broader plan to expand Banlek’s reach and offer its services in multiple currencies, including the US dollar and the euro, which will enhance the company’s ability to operate outside of Brazil. According to Jonathas Guerra, co-founder of Banlek, this move is a key step toward establishing a more significant presence in the global market.

“We are preparing to accept payments in different currencies, which will be a vital part of our international growth,” Guerra shared. His wife, Maria Eduarda, who serves as Banlek’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and strategic direction. Since joining the leadership team in 2021 after the exit of one of the original partners, she has played a pivotal role in overseeing the company’s finances and expansion efforts.

Acquisition of Epics and Strengthening Market Position

In addition to the international purchases, Banlek also made a significant domestic acquisition earlier this year, buying Epics, a competing photography platform that had been in operation for over 15 years. The deal, valued at R$ 9.5 million, is intended to boost Banlek’s position in Brazil’s competitive photography platform market. Epics’ platform is well-regarded for helping photographers build custom websites, a service that complements Banlek’s existing offerings, which focus on photo management and delivery.

Guerra explained that his relationship with Epics’ founder, Evandro Rocha, was essential to finalizing the acquisition. The two met at a photography event in 2022, and their friendship laid the groundwork for the deal. “When the opportunity to acquire Epics arose, we did not hesitate to move forward,” Guerra said. This purchase marks Banlek’s fifth acquisition in Brazil, further consolidating its hold on the local market.

Rapid Growth and Ambitious Projections

Banlek has experienced tremendous growth in 2024, with a more than 100% increase in its team, which has expanded from 36 to 56 employees in just the first half of the year. The company expects to surpass R$ 20 million in revenue by the end of 2024 and currently operates in over 5,000 cities across Brazil.

This accelerated growth, according to Guerra, is due to the company's focus on providing value to photographers, positioning Banlek as a strategic partner in their professional development. “We are constantly working to ensure that photographers view us as more than just a platform but as a partner in their success,” Guerra said.

Expanding Partnerships and Supporting Photographers

Banlek is also expanding its involvement in the photography industry beyond its platform. The startup has invested in key partnerships and sponsorships, particularly in the sports and photography events sectors. It sponsors notable figures such as Lucas Fink, a three-time world skimboard champion, and supports several prominent photography events, including TTDBRASIL, the largest photography, marketing, and entrepreneurship congress in the country. Other sponsorships include Photo in Rio, the Photography Week, and Recife Image, all of which further strengthen Banlek’s presence in the photography community.

Through these partnerships, Banlek not only enhances its brand visibility but also solidifies its commitment to supporting photographers at all stages of their careers. The company’s aim is to help professionals grow their businesses, both in Brazil and internationally, as they navigate the rapidly evolving photography industry.

Transforming Careers and Empowering Professionals

Banlek’s impact on photographers extends beyond the technical and financial support it provides. The platform has played a crucial role in transforming the careers of many photographers, with some professionals seeing a significant increase in their earnings after joining the platform. According to Guerra, there are numerous stories of photographers who have transitioned from traditional employment to earning more than R$ 12,000 per month through Banlek’s services, with some achieving monthly incomes as high as R$ 75,000.

“We want to be more than just a tool,” Guerra emphasized. “We aim to be a business partner for these professionals, helping them achieve financial independence and professional success.”

A Vision for Global Leadership

Banlek’s recent acquisitions and rapid growth mark the beginning of a new chapter in its journey toward becoming a global leader in photography platforms. The company’s investments in innovative technology, such as facial and numerical recognition for photo organization, as well as its commitment to providing 24/7 customer support, ensure that Banlek remains a valuable resource for photographers across various markets.

As it continues to expand internationally, with a foothold now in Paraguay and Portugal, Banlek is well-positioned to become a major player in the global photography and technology sector. With its dedication to meeting the needs of photographers and exploring new opportunities, Banlek is set to achieve its goal of becoming a global leader in the industry

Banlek’s international expansion, marked by key acquisitions and strategic growth, underscores its ambition to become a dominant force in the global photography platform market. By continuing to support photographers through innovative solutions and comprehensive services, the company is poised to make a lasting impact on the industry, both in Brazil and beyond.