Ipsos Buys Dutch Public Sector Specialist

Ipsos has announced the acquisition of I&O Research, described as the largest research agency in the public sector in the Netherlands.

I&O was founded in 1996, focuses on social and political surveys and has clients at all levels of public administrations, institutions and NGOs. It also boasts 'significant' capabilities in data production and analysis, and a large knowledge panel.

Combining this with Ipsos' existing operations in the country will create a team of 250 professionals, which will operate as Ipsos I&O. The global group says it will 'create new business opportunities' for governments and international institutions such as the EC, and notes that the Netherlands is Europe's fifth largest research market.

Ipsos Global CEO Ben Page states: 'In line with our 2025 strategy, we continue to strengthen our position in work for governments and the public sector. This new acquisition will bring I&O Research's gold standard operations together with Ipsos' best-in-class research. The combined organization will enable our clients to benefit from expanded operational resources and infrastructure, as well as leading analysis capabilities'. I&O's Managing Director Gerben Huijgen (pictured) comments, 'We are excited about the fit of I&O Research with Ipsos and convinced that this combination will bring greater value to our people and clients. Our shared commitment to quality, innovation and integrity signals exciting opportunities'.

I&O is on the web at www.ioresearch.nl , while Ipsos' geoup home page is at www.ipsos.com .