BIA Financial Network has acquired The Kelsey Group.
BIAfn, based in Virginia, is a financial and strategic advisory firm; Kelsey, headquartered in New Jersey, provides research, data and analysis about media including print and electronic Yellow Pages, local search and small-business marketing.
The companies said this new combo will offer “a comprehensive view of local advertising markets as it impacts traditional media, new media, entertainment, technology and telecom.” A BIA exec called the deal “a significant opportunity for growth.”
The Kelsey Group under CEO Neal Polachek now will operate as a subsidiary of BIA Advisory Services, which will also include BIA Consulting and BIA Research. Co-founder John Kelsey will oversee conference planning and execution while continuing in client relations and business.
BIAfn said the deal helps it “strategically counsel its core clients into new technologies and mediums that will help expand their revenues and improve the industry landscape” while Kelsey clients will benefit from BIAfn’s strengths in appraisals, valuations, financial and strategic assistance and data services. The Kelsey Group also sponsors industry conferences.
BIA Advisory Services will retain The Kelsey Group’s offices and personnel, the companies said.
