New Acquisition for TNS 10/07/00 Taylor Nelson Sofres is further strengthening its international network through the acquisition of Instituto Gallup de la Argentina (Gallup Argentina). This move increases the group's presence in the growing Latin American market. Completion of the deal is expected by the end of July. Founded in 1980, Gallup Argentina has established a sound reputation and works with many of the world's major multinationals. Similar to Taylor Nelson Sofres, Gallup Argentina's strategy is sector-driven, and the company is particularly strong in the areas of FMCG, healthcare, telecoms and social and political polling. Gallup Argentina is a long-established member of the Gallup International Association (GIA). With a staff of 35 people, Gallup Argentina's turnover in the year to 31 March 2000 was US$7.6 million and net assets at that date were US$2.7 million. The Managing Director, Marita Carballo, will continue managing the company and will play a leading part in developing the group's activities in the region. According to Tony Cowling, Executive Chairman of Taylor Nelson Sofres, "We are delighted to welcome this highly respected company into the group. We have known Gallup Argentina for many years through the GIA and, when the company has carried out research for us in Argentina, the high quality and timeliness of its work have impressed us. Marita Carballo brings considerable expertise to the group. She is a recognised expert in the area of socio and economic studies and is active with a number of the world's international organisations. She and her company have significant knowledge of the region as a whole, which will strengthen our international offering." Marita Carballo, Managing Director of Gallup Argentina, added: "As part of an international group, we will be able to offer our clients an enhanced range of services and Taylor Nelson Sofres is our chosen partner. I am particularly excited by the potential of introducing the group's excellent range of branded research solutions into our business."