Alliance Data Buys Aspen Marketing Services

US-based loyalty solutions firm Alliance Data Systems Corporation has acquired Aspen Marketing Services, a specialist in digital and advanced analytics. Terms were not disclosed.

Headquartered in Dallas, Alliance Data provides transaction-based, data-driven marketing and loyalty solutions using traditional media and emerging technologies. The firm employs approximately 7,400 associates at 50 locations worldwide.

Founded in 1986, Aspen is based outside Chicago and offers a portfolio of in-house marketing capabilities, including digital, direct, experiential and event marketing, online and offline word-of-mouth, Hispanic marketing and advanced analytics.

Alliance says the acquisition will enhance the data-driven marketing services of its subsidiary Epsilon, which use consumer insight to help brands expand their relationships with customers. Epsilon's services include strategic consulting, acquisition and customer database technologies, loyalty management, proprietary data and predictive modeling.

According to Patrick O'Rahilly, President and CEO of Aspen: 'Combining our capabilities and expertise with Epsilon's critical products... will allow for an even more compelling offering. I'm looking forward to driving forward to the next level with Epsilon's $1 billion division behind us, as well as a corporate parent which is fully supportive of our approach.'

Epsilon President Bryan Kennedy welcomed Aspen's associates to his firm, describing them as a 'very talented and experienced team'.

Web sites: www.alliancedata.com , www.epsilon.com and www.aspenms.com .