Information Resources Inc., a growing global provider of innovative services for consumer, retail, and media companies, has merged with The NPD Group, a provider of market information and advisory services across a spectrum of industries. As part of the deal, Hellman & Friedman will acquire a majority stake in IRI, merging it with its portfolio company, NPD. Additionally, long-term IRI investors, Vestar Capital Partners and New Mountain Capital will retain investments in the combined firm.
The business combination is intended to create a global technology, analytics, and data company delivering its clients a view of retail purchasing and consumption trends. The firms use advanced and predictive analytics using the IRI Liquid Data technology platform. The combined firm will support its brand and retail clients to collaborate, improve service to its customers, respond to trends, and make the most of analytics to drive growth.
“We are excited about the prospect of combining our companies to give clients the tools and information they need to succeed amid changing consumer behavior,” added NPD CEO Karyn Schoenbart. “Both NPD and IRI share similar client-focused, innovative and collaborative cultures, making this combination a natural fit.”
Evercore, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Guggenheim Securities LLC are serving as financial advisors to IRI, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal counsel. Jefferies Group LLC is serving as exclusive financial advisor to NPD and H&F, and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is serving as legal counsel. Kramer Levin is serving as legal counsel to Johnson and Schoenbart