Paris-based market research firm Ipsos confirmed today that the company is in discussions regarding a potential acquisition of Kantar Media, which provides audience measurement services across broadcast, print and other channels in over 60 countries. 

The company’s statement followed a report by Reuters last Friday that Ipsos was preparing a bid and that a deadline had been set for this week. The news agency estimated that Kantar Media could be worth $1.3 billion, citing an unidentified source.  

Kantar Media is a division of Kantar Group, which is 60% owned by Bain Capital and 40% owned by WPP, which sold Bain the controlling stake of the research firm in 2019. 

In its statement Ipsos said there was “no guarantee” that it would make “any offer” and that it “will communicate in due course should these discussions materialize, in accordance with applicable regulations.” 

Kantar Media has been on the block for nearly a year.  

Bain Capital representatives were not immediately available for comment.   

Ipsos offers market research services in 90 countries.