Savanta acquires MindSpark Research

MindSpark Research focuses on user experience (UX) and qualitative insights, with a global client base that includes the likes of Instagram, WhatsApp and Airbnb. The company’s aim to inform and inspire clients through research is said to align with Savanta’s goal of helping customers make better decisions.

MindSpark’s UX and qualitative products and services will add to Savanta’s suite of data and technology services, as well as high-impact consulting.

MindSpark founder and chief executive Nikki Lavoie joins Savanta with an extensive background in multi and cross-cultural projects within the insight industry.

Serving vice-president of the Esomar Council and a long-time board member at AQR, Lavoie has been presenting on topics such as agile qualitative research, linguistics and DEI (diversity, equality and inclusion) for over 15 years.

“We’re super excited to be welcoming Nikki and the team onboard,” said Americas chief executive Vin DeRobertis. “At the heart of this acquisition is innovation. New techniques and ways of thinking, such as qual at scale, really excites me not only for the future of Savanta, but the future of our industry.

“We saw an instant fit with Nikki and the team; we’re welcoming incredible talent into the business as we broaden and deepen our offering.”