06/12/2016
What Does Microsoft's $26.2 Billion Acquisition of LinkedIn Mean for Retail?
Microsoft Corp. and LinkedIn Corporation announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Microsoft will acquire LinkedIn for $26.2 billion. The acquisition couples Microsoft's professional cloud offering with LinkedIn's massive professional social network which could have far-reaching implications for the retail industry.
The combination of LinkedIn and Microsoft could supercharge retailers' customer relationship management capabilities by linking Microsoft's Dynamics CRM offering with LinkedIn's massive social network. The acquisition opens up a new and exciting channel for Microsoft's retail clients, which can be leveraged to gain shopper insight, monitor emerging trends, communicate offers and promotions and more. In addition, Microsoft's Office 365 product could be enhanced with new tools and services that could leverage the power of LinkedIn's database and social influence.
“The LinkedIn team has grown a fantastic business centered on connecting the world’s professionals,” said Satya Nadella, CEO, Microsoft. “Together we can accelerate the growth of LinkedIn, as well as Microsoft Office 365 and Dynamics as we seek to empower every person and organization on the planet.”
LinkedIn is the world’s largest and most valuable professional network and continues to build a strong and growing business. Over the past year, the company has launched a new version of its mobile app that has led to increased member engagement; enhanced the LinkedIn newsfeed to deliver better business insights; acquired a leading online learning platform called Lynda.com to enter a new market; and rolled out a new version of its Recruiter product to its enterprise customers. These innovations have resulted in increased membership, engagement and financial results, specifically:
Under the agreement LinkedIn will retain its distinct brand, culture and independence. Weiner will remain CEO of LinkedIn, reporting to Nadella.
For more coverage of the acquisition visit Microsoft's News Center.
The combination of LinkedIn and Microsoft could supercharge retailers' customer relationship management capabilities by linking Microsoft's Dynamics CRM offering with LinkedIn's massive social network. The acquisition opens up a new and exciting channel for Microsoft's retail clients, which can be leveraged to gain shopper insight, monitor emerging trends, communicate offers and promotions and more. In addition, Microsoft's Office 365 product could be enhanced with new tools and services that could leverage the power of LinkedIn's database and social influence.
“The LinkedIn team has grown a fantastic business centered on connecting the world’s professionals,” said Satya Nadella, CEO, Microsoft. “Together we can accelerate the growth of LinkedIn, as well as Microsoft Office 365 and Dynamics as we seek to empower every person and organization on the planet.”
LinkedIn is the world’s largest and most valuable professional network and continues to build a strong and growing business. Over the past year, the company has launched a new version of its mobile app that has led to increased member engagement; enhanced the LinkedIn newsfeed to deliver better business insights; acquired a leading online learning platform called Lynda.com to enter a new market; and rolled out a new version of its Recruiter product to its enterprise customers. These innovations have resulted in increased membership, engagement and financial results, specifically:
- 19% growth YOY to more than 433 million members worldwide
- 9% growth to more than 105 million unique visiting members per month
- 49% growth to 60% mobile usage
- 34% growth to more than 45 billion quarterly member page views
- 101% growth to more than 7 million active job listings
Under the agreement LinkedIn will retain its distinct brand, culture and independence. Weiner will remain CEO of LinkedIn, reporting to Nadella.
For more coverage of the acquisition visit Microsoft's News Center.
