Ipsos confirms acquisition talks with Kantar Media

French market research giant Ipsos is poised to expand its footprint in the media analytics space, confirming discussions with London-based Kantar Media about a potential acquisition.

Sources familiar with the matter revealed that Ipsos is preparing a binding offer to acquire Kantar’s TV ratings data division, a deal that could exceed 1 billion euros ($1.05 billion).

“There can be no certainty that any offer will be made, nor as to the terms on which any such offer might be made,” Ipsos said in a statement.

The move, first reported by Reuters, marks a significant strategic push for Ipsos as it seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive market research sector. By acquiring Kantar’s TV ratings business, Ipsos would gain access to a rich dataset crucial for understanding global media consumption patterns and influencing advertising decisions.

French group Ipsos has become a household name globally for its opinion and election polls, it a market value of 1.9 billion euros.