News today that TNS and Gfk have announced a mega-merger to create the 2nd largest global research company, operating in well over 100 countries, in a 50:50 marriage of equals worth £2bn.
WPP are still stalking the party though, and with their track record, the deal may not be done until the ink is properly dry.
Those of you who know us will be aware that part of our reasoning for setting up Market Evolution in the first place was born out of frustration with big monolithic research agencies. While no-one gets fired for hiring one of the big boys, it can be a frustrating exercise which costs over the odds and delivers an underwhelming level of actionable insight. Not always of course, but the smartest minds rarely seem to flourish in a "factory" environment.
Who will do best out of the merger - shareholders, staff, or clients? My money wouldn't be on the second or third...
It will be interesting to see how this one plays out
1 comment:
couldnt agree more. consolidation suits only shareholders - end of story
watch for Sorrell he hates to get beat and is prepared (as he has demonstrated time and time again) to pay way over the odds to ensure he doesnt get beat. how much time must martin spend infront of the mirror!
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