Nielsen Reports First Quarter Revenue Rise

Nielsen has reported a 12.9% rise in first quarter 2014 revenues to $1.49 billion, driven by 28% growth in its media research business following the acquisition of Arbitron.

Excluding the impact of the Arbitron and Harris Interactive acquisitions, revenues were up a more modest 2.8%.

Nielsen's media research Watch business, now including Arbitron rebranded as Nielsen Audio, saw revenue climb 28.3% to $652m, while the Buy segment - which analyses consumer purchase behavior - grew 3.2% to $837m.

Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter increased 19.4% to $376m, compared with the first quarter of 2013, and adjusted net income was up 42.2% to $165m.

CEO Mitch Barns (pictured) commented: 'Nielsen delivered a solid first quarter. Our underlying business performance, which was marked by broad-based revenue growth and strong profitability, was enhanced by the ongoing successful integration of Arbitron. Our focus on the business priorities of our global client base continues to produce steady and consistent results while delivering long-term value for our shareholders.'

Web site: www.nielsen.com .