Agency CEO Vacancy via PSD



Massive New Industry Merger
29/06/00



Following MrWeb's timely reporting on corporate restructuring in the US research industry, a new giant is about to be born. Jupiter Communications has been acquired by Media Metrix in a deal worth US342.8 million, a move that will create a global leader in Internet research services.

The merged company will be called Jupiter Media Metrix and will have a combined market value in excess of US$1 billion. The aim is to deliver innovative and comprehensive Internet measurement, analysis, events and advice to provide businesses with unmatched global resources for understanding and profiting from the Internet.

According to Tod Johnson, Chairman and CEO of Media Metrix,"The combination of Jupiter and Media Metrix brings together world-class, innovative and market-leading products, services, research methodologies and, most importantly, people. Both organisations have been leaders and innovators in the digital economy, providing vital information to support clients' business decisions. Together, we create the definitive source for Internet measurement and analysis as well as the ultimate platform for long-term growth. The new company will accelerate the development of products and services, efficiently reach new customers and markets, and rapidly extend its leadership position worldwide - providing increased value for clients, employees and shareholders."

Gene DeRose, Chairman and CEO of Jupiter Communications added, "We're thrilled to be joining forces with Media Metrix. We are creating a company like no other - the first to combine under one roof vital, proprietary data with the kind of intellectual capital it takes to create the widest range of products. Jupiter's authoritative market analysts and renowned industry events and Media Metrix' industry leading Internet and digital media measurement services have really set the standard in their respective businesses. We look forward to leveraging the unmatched assets of the combined company to redefine the landscape of Internet research."

The combined company will leverage its global leadership positions, including:

  • A diversified client base of more than 1,700 clients worldwide, including leading advertising agencies, media companies, e-commerce marketers, advertisers, technology companies, financial institutions and consulting firms.
  • A comprehensive suite of products and services based on Internet Measurement, Analysis, Events and Advice.
  • Patented, advanced methodologies and technologies, supporting innovative research and product development.
  • Worldwide operations in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Japan, Sweden and the United Kingdom.
  • More than 730 employees around the world

The management team for Jupiter Media Metrix will consist of key executives from both Media Metrix and Jupiter. Tod Johnson, chairman and chief executive officer of Media Metrix, will become chairman and chief executive officer of the new company. Gene DeRose, chairman and chief executive officer of Jupiter, will become president and vice chairman of Jupiter Media Metrix. Mary Ann Packo, president and chief operating officer of Media Metrix, and Kurt Abrahamson, president and chief operating officer of Jupiter, will become co-chief operating officers of Jupiter Media Metrix, and will continue as presidents of their respective business units. Tom Lynch, chief financial officer of Media Metrix, will become the new company's chief financial officer, while Jean Robinson, Jupiter's chief financial officer, will become executive vice president, business development.

Under the terms of the merger agreement approved by both Jupiter and Media Metrix boards of directors, Jupiter shareholders will receive .946 shares of Media Metrix for each share of Jupiter they own. The merger will be accounted for as a purchase transaction and will be tax-free to both companies' shareholders.

The merger is subject to customary closing conditions, regulatory approval and the approval of Jupiter and Media Metrix shareholders, and is expected to close within three months. The stock will trade under the symbol MMXI on the NASDAQ National Market System.