The acquisition will increase Norstat’s production capacity and expand its panel services in central and eastern Europe.

National Sample will also provide local office support in Czechia for Norstat following the acquisition and strengthen its panels in the country as well as neighbouring Poland.

Following the acquisition, Tomáš Říha will become managing director of National Sample, reporting directly to Tue Meier-Poulsen, regional director at Norstat. National Sample will retain its own branding and identity.

National Sample clients will also gain access to Norstat’s global operations, as well as its data collection and digital tools and products.

National Sample was founded in 2012 and is headquartered in Prague. The company operates in Czechia, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria and Thailand.

Norstat was set up in 1997 in Norway and operates in 45 countries worldwide.

Erling Eriksen, chief executive at Norstat, said: “We are delighted to finalise the acquisition of National Sample, which marks a key step in our journey to becoming a leading data collection company in central and eastern Europe.

“We see strong demand for high-quality data across these markets, and National Sample’s people, technology and proprietary panels are perfectly positioned to support our ambitious growth strategy. We look forward to working closely with Tomáš Říha and the team to meet increasing client demand for data across these markets.”

Říha added: “Joining Norstat is, simply, a great cultural and organisational fit, and it gives our clients access to extensive sample provision throughout Europe and the Americas, as well as innovative digital products and solutions.

“This is an exciting time for us at National Sample and for our clients, and we cannot wait to start delivering new and expanded services as part of the Norstat family.”