WPP Scangroup to Buy Control of Kantar TNS in Africa

Kenya-based WPP Scangroup Ltd, in which WPP holds a narrow majority of shares, has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Research and Marketing Group Investment Limited, which operates Kantar TNS in six countries in East and West Africa.

WPP Scangroup is listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), and currently provides market research services through Kantar Millward Brown - the proposed buy would allow it to align the two MR businesses, leading to efficiencies and client benefits, the firm said.

WPP took a 27.5% stake in marketing services firm Scangroup in 2009, and increased it to 50.1% in 2013. Three years ago, the firm prefixed its name with WPP, underlining the two firms' 'shared vision and values' as well as the ownership stake.

In addition to Nigeria and Kenya, Scangroup's primary markets, Kantar TNS operates in Senegal, Cameroun, Cote d'Ivoire and Ghana.

If and when approved by shareholders and the Kenyan authorities, WPP Scangroup will acquire a total of 73% of the firm, consisting of the whole 70% currently held by Russell Square Holdings BV (a subsidiary of WPP Plc), and a tithe of the 30% held by International Research and Marketing Group Holdings Ltd.

WPP Scangroup CEO Bharat Thakrar (pictured) comments: 'The proposed acquisition of Kantar TNS presents a tremendous opportunity for business growth and investment in markets such as Nigeria and Kenya. The focus on research and data-driven operations perfectly fits our goal of providing horizontal, integrated communications services and products across the sub-Saharan region'.

Web site: www.wpp-scangroup.com .