Twilio, a cloud communications platform, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Zipwhip, a business text messaging provider, for approximately $850 million in an equal blend of cash and stock.

“Messaging is becoming a preferred way for consumers to engage with brands, therefore it’s critical to provide multiple messaging options,” said Simon Khalaf, SVP and general manager of the Twilio Communications Platform. “By bringing together the world’s leading cloud communications platform and a trusted partner in the messaging ecosystem, we have the ability to deliver more secure, high-quality toll-free traffic at scale. We are thrilled to welcome Zipwhip to the Twilio team as we continue our journey to become the world’s leading customer engagement platform trusted by developers and companies globally.”

“Twilio and Zipwhip share a vision for the future of business messaging and its growing role within customer engagement,” said John Lauer, CEO and co-founder of Zipwhip. “Zipwhip’s goal is to make sure every business we serve can text their customers using their existing business phone numbers and, together, we have a unique opportunity to elevate the customer experience, helping brands better communicate via a trusted and growing channel that’s been proven to drive long-term customer satisfaction.”

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC served as exclusive financial advisor and Cooley LLP served as legal counsel to Zipwhip. Fenwick & West LLP served as legal counsel to Twilio.