AMR’s president and CEO Tony Friscia said that he expected the deal, which is subject to customary closing conditions, to be completed by the end of the month.

The two firms will continue to operate independently until the integration process begins on 1 January.

Gartner said that the addition to its ranks of AMR’s 40 research analysts and 45-strong sales team would “enhance its ability” to further penetrate the syndicated research market.

Gene Hall, (pictured), Gartner’s CEO, said: “AMR Research is an excellent strategic fit for Gartner. The firm is the market leader for research related to supply chain management, which is inextricably linked to IT and has become a central and growing issue for many organisations. We expect the acquisition to give us immediate presence in this market and the ability to generate substantial synergies by selling AMR Research products to Gartner clients and Gartner products to AMR Research clients.”

Tony Friscia added that the acquisition of his company by Gartner was a “unique and exciting opportunity”.