Consumer research and TV ratings firm Nielsen agreed to buy market research firm Harris Interactive for about $116.6 million, saying it will help it provide insights to customers.
Harris Interactive said Nielsen agreed to pay $2 per share, but the price may change. The per-share amount is 4% below Harris Interactive Inc.’s $2.08 Friday closing price.
Harris Interactive CEO Al Angrisani said in a statement on Monday that the company chose the Nielsen transaction after a review of its strategic options that started earlier this year. Harris Interactive’s board unanimously approved the deal.
John Lewis, president of the Americas for Nielsen, said in a statement that the acquisition adds to the company’s existing capabilities and will provide growth opportunities in other industry sectors.
The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter.