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Sports Research Specialists Team Up
German consultancy IFM International Sportanalysen GmbH (IFM) has acquired a majority stake in the UK's Sports Marketing Surveys (SMS).
The new company has revenues of around EUR 25 million, far bigger than its nearest rival, according to IFM's CEO Heinz Abel; and boasts nearly 300 staff, in offices in the UK, US, France, Belgium, Greece, Turkey, Brazil, South Africa, China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Australia and New Zealand. SMS brings particular strength in Japan and good coverage elsewhere in Asia, and boosts IFM's market research and consultancy capabilities.
SMS MD Stephen Proctor, who will join the Board of the new company, says the move will put SMS's services in front of a wider range of rights holders and brands, and welcomes its timing ahead of a major year for sport.
Both companies were formed in the 1980s. Web sites are at www.sportsmarketingsurveys.com and www.ifm-sports.com.
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