In-Stat partners with NPD Group in spin-off from Reed Elsevier

The buyout was backed by consumer and retail sales data firm NPD Group, and going forward the two companies plan to work together to offer “broader and deeper knowledge to business decision makers in the wireless and entertainment industries”, said NPD chairman Tod Johnson.

In-Stat’s main research focus is on the mobile internet and digital entertainment markets – specifically, the technology that supports them. Analyst coverage includes mobile devices, 3G deployment, wi-fi networks, in-home entertainment equipment and media and content delivery systems.

Kirstein (pictured) said the of the MBO: “As a nimble, independent and reputable market research firm, we see this change as a tremendous opportunity to better serve our customers.”

He said the alliance with NPD “opens new strategic opportunities for both companies”.

Terms of the buyout deal or the size of NPD’s investment have not been disclosed.