Retail and Technology increase stake in Indian joint venture

At the beginning of July 2009, GfK Retail and Technology will increase its stake in its Indian joint venture with Nielsen from 40.0% to 50.1%.

From now on, the joint venture company will be included in the consolidated accounts of the GfK Group. Previously known as ORG-GfK Marketing Services (India) Private Limited, the joint venture will be renamed GfK-Nielsen India Private Limited.

The joint venture, which was established in 1998, operates in one of the world’s strongest growth regions, and is currently the leading provider of retail data in India for technology categories. The company has a staff of 16 and offices in New Delhi and Mumbai and generated sales of EUR 3 million in 2008. Sameer Shukla has been appointed General Manager.

The synergies resulting from all the parties involved will strengthen the position of the Indian joint venture. It also offers unique opportunities for expansion of the product coverage and for access to international clients, and generates new service opportunities for local and international manufacturers.