IHS to Buy NPD's DisplaySearch and Solarbuzz

US-based information and analytics firm IHS is to acquire two subsidiary firms from retail researcher the NPD Group: flat-panel display specialist DisplaySearch and solar energy MR business Solarbuzz. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Founded in 1996 and acquired by NPD in 2005, DisplaySearch conducts Asia-based primary research in display technology, while also providing market forecasting services, advisory solutions and events for clients around the world. Solarbuzz, which NPD bought in 2010, offers market intelligence, research and forecasting for the solar industry, with a focus on the photovoltaic supply chain.

Scott Key (pictured), President and CEO of IHS, says the two businesses will be integrated into the IHS Technology business line, adding: 'DisplaySearch will help give IHS customers a powerful view of the end-to-end display supply chain, and will bolster our capabilities for displays research and analytics in the US, China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. Also, with Solarbuzz, IHS will develop new offerings in the fast-growing solar market.'

NPD Chairman and CEO Tod Johnson describes the sale as a 'strategic decision' for his company, allowing it to focus on global expansion of its retail, distributor and consumer tracking services, as well as on introducing new solutions.

Web sites: www.ihs.com and www.npd.com .