Kantar to acquire Civolution’s audio watermarking unit

The acquisition, expected to finalise by the end of 2014, will strengthen Kantar’s ability to tie second screen content with TV shows using Civolution’s SyncNow service. Kantar already uses watermarking technology in a number of its TV, radio and internet audience measurement services.

The watermarking unit, led by Jean-Michel Masson, will continue to be headquartered in Rennes, France.

“We are excited at the prospect of becoming part of Kantar Media,” said Masson. “We already enjoy a successful history of co-operation with the business and look forward to working with broadcasters, agencies, industry bodies and the wider market across Kantar Media’s measurement footprint.”