WPP GROUP PLC
13 August 1999
WPP to acquire IntelliQuest Information Group, Inc
Strengthens position in hi-tech and Internet research
WPP Group plc announces that it has agreed to acquire, on behalf
of its wholly-owned subsidiary Millward Brown (a member of The
Kantar Group, its information and consultancy division), the
entire issued share capital of IntelliQuest Information Group,
Inc, a leading US provider of information services for technology
companies. Following the transaction, IntelliQuest will join
Millward Brown, wordwide leaders in advertising and brand
research. IntelliQuest, which is listed on Nasdaq, will also work
closely with other Kantar companies.
Texas-based IntelliQuest, which employs more than 200 people,
provides global research products and services to many of the
world's most successful hi-tech companies. Its innovative methods
and proprietary technologies have established a reputation that
has attracted a blue-chip client list. These include Internet
companies, consulting companies, technology-based solutions
providers, telecoms companies, consumer electronics and software
companies. IntelliQuest had revenues of $26.4 million for the
year ended 31 December 1998 and net assets of $40.1 million at 31
March 1999.
Headquartered in Austin, Texas and with satellite offices in
Atlanta, Redwood City and London, IntelliQuest comprises three
businesses: marketing research services; Zona Research which
provides in-depth analysis and assessment of the Internet and
intranet markets; and the recently-divested IQ2.net (to which
Millward Brown has exclusive access) which provides information
and services that enable companies to undertake highly targetted
marketing on the Internet.
IntelliQuest chief executive Brian Sharples commented: 'We are
extremely excited at the opportunity to work with Millward Brown
and with other Kantar companies as it provides IntelliQuest with
a worldwide infrastructure and expanded client base to pursue our
Internet strategy. This merger will significantly increase our
ability to serve multinational clients and to expand our panels
outside the US. '
Bob Meyers, Millward Brown's group chief executive, said,
'IntelliQuest presents Millward Brown, Kantar and WPP with an
opportunity to develop their hi-tech and Internet research
capabilities not only in the US but globally. We look forward to
working with the IntelliQuest management team in developing our
joint strategy and capability.'
IntelliQuest brings valuable resource, knowledge and capability
to Millward Brown and further strengthens its position in this
dynamic fast-growing sector, while Millward Brown provides
IntelliQuest with vital global reach.
The acquisition marks continued strengthening of WPP's
information and consultancy activities through the operations
of its Kantar businesses.
For further information, contact:
Feona McEwan, WPP, London + 44 171 408 2204
Bob Meyers, Millward Brown, Chicago + (630) 505 0066
David Jenkins, The Kantar Group, London + 44 171 656 5599
www.wpp.com
www.intelliquest.com
www.millwardbrown.com
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