MasterCard Buys Applied Predictive Technologies

In the US, MasterCard has signed a deal to acquire cloud-based analytics software provider Applied Predictive Technologies (APT) for around $600m.

Founded in 1999 by business consulting execs Jim Manzi, Anthony Bruce and Scott Setrakian, APT provides business analytics software to help large consumer-facing businesses understand their stores, customers and employees. Its 'Test & Learn' platform helps companies use analytics to design and measure activities including marketing, operations and capital initiatives. The firm is based in Washington DC, with regional offices in San Francisco, London, Bentonville, Ark, Taipei, Tokyo and Sydney.

MasterCard says the transaction adds to its recent acquisition of London-based retail consulting and analytics firm 5One, and gives APT access to its analytics suite, consulting and marketing services.

Kevin Stanton (pictured), President of professional services division MasterCard Advisors, comments: 'In today's competitive business climate, companies need analytics that are easy to use and drive action. APT's world-class talent, technology and Test & Learn platform, matched with MasterCard's analytics, will give our customers the advantage of enhanced and actionable decision making.'

Web sites: www.mastercard.com and www.predictivetechnologies.com .