The media measurement company Nielsen will spin off its market research and analytics business from its global media measurement business, the firm announced Thursday. (Adweek)
Following the transaction, Nielsen shareholders would own shares of both Nielsen, which would hold the company’s global media business, and the new entity holding the Global Connect business, the company said. (WSJ)
Following the separation, CEO David Kenny will stay on as chief executive of the Global Media business. Nielsen has started a search for a CEO of the Global Connect business. (CNBC)
Nielsen restructured its media and retail groups in February following what the company called a “challenging year” financially. Nielsen had already been conducting a review of its assets. (The Drum)
Nielsen came under pressure from activist investor Elliott Management Corporation to sell the businesses about a year ago. Elliott, which holds about 8 percent of the company’s stock, had concerns about the competitiveness of Nielsen’s retail business. (Axios)