Outrank.com

Hearst Corporation, one of the world’s largest media companies, has announced plans to acquire iCrossing, an international digital marketing agency. Outrank.com has learned that the takeover is still contingent on formal outside review.

Hearst Corporation owns 53 newspapers, including the Houston Chronicle and San Francisco Chronicle, and nearly 200 magazines, including Good Housekeeping and Cosmopolitan. In just over a decade, iCrossing has grown from a small SEM start-up to an internet marketing industry leader boasting 550 employees.

In a statement to the press released on June 3rd, Hearst outlined its goals for the deal:

“iCrossing works with leading companies like Bank of America, Toyota, Travelocity and The Coca-Cola Company to help them connect with customers via digital platforms and increase search effectiveness and consumer engagement. iCrossing will continue to work with and grow its own client base while simultaneously collaborating with other Hearst divisions to bring clients and consumers new and innovative solutions.”

The newspaper industry is in a dramatic downward spiral. As readership and advertising revenue deteriorate every year, this deal holds special significance. ”Search and online marketing expertise will be an important asset for us as we continue to look for new ways to reach key audiences through digital marketing for our brands and our clients,” said Frank A. Bennack, Jr., vice chairman and CEO of Hearst.

At Outrank.com, we couldn’t agree more with a business that sees the value and cost-effectiveness of search engine marketing.