GfK Expands Custom Research Network with Acquisition of Interscope, LLC

NEW YORK Nov. 1, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- The GfK Group acquired 100% ownership of US company Interscope, LLC on November 1, 2010. Interscope is a leading marketing consulting organization that focuses on helping companies build their brands at retail.  The acquisition contributes to the growth of GfK Custom Research North America.  Interscope will remain in their Westport, CT location.

Interscope complements GfK Custom Research North America's expanding shopper marketing and insights practice.  By combining GfK's research expertise and analytical capabilities with Interscope's consulting discipline and training expertise the company has created a truly integrated shopper marketing practice.  The synergies resulting from this combination will lead to a compelling and unique value proposition for clients.  

"The acquisition of Interscope enhances our ability to provide custom shopper insights solutions and to develop executable strategies and tactics that our clients can use to build healthier brands and strengthen customer loyalty at retail," said Thomas Finkle, Chief Client Services Officer, GfK Custom Research North America.  

"This new combined approach of fusing shopper research, category management and shopper marketing into a common growth platform adds great value to our clients and the marketplace," said Gary Schanzer, one of the Interscope principals.

In 2010, Interscope had a staff of 22 employees. Interscope's clients span leading companies in the consumer packaged goods, general merchandise, apparel, technology and healthcare industries.

About Interscope

Interscope is a dynamic and flexible sales and marketing firm specializing in helping clients win in today's challenging retail landscape. Their collaborative approach creates customized solutions that are proven to build brands and categories at retail. For more information, visit www.interscopellc.com.

About GfK Custom Research North America

Headquartered in New York, GfK Custom Research North America is part of the GfK Group. The GfK Group offers the fundamental knowledge that industry, retailers, services companies and the media need to make market decisions. It delivers a comprehensive range of information and consultancy services in three business sectors—Custom Research, Retail and Technology and Media. The no. 4 market research organization worldwide operates in more than 100 countries and employs over 10,000 staff. In 2009, the GfK Group's sales amounted to EUR 1.16 billion. For more information visit, www.gfkamerica.com. Follow us at www.gfkinsights4u.com or on Twitter @gfkamerica.

SOURCE GfK Custom Research North America