• by Larissa Faw , December 20, 2018

Publicis Groupe is acquiring a majority share (83%) of Soft Computing to enhance the network's data marketing expertise across France.

Founded in 1984 by Eric Fischmeister and Gilles Venturi, Soft Computing serves as one of France's leading data marketing firms with more than 400 workers focused on the retail, services and financial sectors.

This deal is with the founding shareholders at a price of 25 euro per share ($28.60), representing a 66% premium to the company's closing price on December 19, 2018.

If the acquisition of this controlling stake is completed, Publicis Groupe will then file a simplified public offering, on the same financial terms, which may be followed by a compulsory buyout if the attendant conditions are met.