If there’s any indication that all seems to be well in the Microsoft camp after the failed Yahoo acquisition deal, it’s when the company continues with its usual habit of buying online companies and amassing a wealth of properties. As Microsoft resumes its old habit, the company is reported to be eyeing Greenfield Online, which also ows price comparison shopping and consumer reviews site- Ciao.
Terms of the deal include a payout to Greenfield owners of around $486 million for an equivalent $17.50 per share of the companies property valuation. Once formally acquired, Microsoft is hoping to extend its Search and e-commerce services in Europe.
For a little bit of a background on Ciao offers a comprehensive source for intelligent online shopping which combines consumer reviews and ratings of its multi-million users and the latest pricing information coming from online merchants. Ciao boasts of more than 26.5 million unique visitors per month covering seven European countries. Total product views generated by Ciao is around 5 million as of today.
In addition, the acquisition of Greenfield Online and Ciao will help Microsoft to strengthen its commercial search capabilities and would be a welcome addition to Microsoft’s Search Cash Back rewards program. Both products are aimed at establishing Microsoft’s Live Search portal as the premiere destination for shopping-related queries and search activities.
Microsoft plans to integrate Ciao’s technology platform, online community and merchant relationships to its Live Search platform.
Greenfield Online’s President and CEO Albert Angrisani, was more than please with Microsoft’s announcement and said:
“We’re proud of the community that we have helped to establish, and we’re looking forward to exploring the new opportunities, technologies and relationships that Microsoft and the Live Search platform can unlock. Like Microsoft, we are passionate about delivering a great end-to-end commerce search experience. Today’s announcement will significantly accelerate our ambition and will deliver real benefit for consumers and merchants across Europe.”
