NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sept. 9, 2003–WL Ross & Co. announced today the acquisition of Marquis Who’s Who business and National Register Publishing titles from Reed Elsevier Inc. Marquis Who’sWho, founded in 1899, is the preeminent U.S. publisher of biographical information on notable individuals for reference and consumer markets. Flagship products include Who’s Who in America and Who’sWho in the World. National Register Publishing produces specialty directories including The Official Catholic Directory and The Official Museum Directory. The company, which is located in NewProvidence, New Jersey, publishes 23 directories. The terms of the acquisition are confidential.
Wilbur L. Ross, CEO of WL Ross & Co. said, “Today’s volatile world requires the combination of modern information delivery systems and 104 years of research experience to keep track of who’s really who. We will devote the capital necessary to maximize the value of these unique databases to our subscribers.”
James Finkelstein, who will be president and a director of the new company, said, “The Marquis Who’s Who name is one of the greatest brands in America. Not only will it continue to be the ultimate hallmark of success in the world but also will be expanding the brand into numerous areas outside directories.” Mr. Finkelstein formerly owned the National Publishing Company, publishers of the National Law Journal and the New York Law Journal. He currently is the publisher of The Hill, the largest publication for Congress, and is the President of Dan’s Papers, the largest circulation publication in the Hamptons.
WL Ross & Co. sponsors global private equity and hedge fund investments on behalf of major institutional investors and has committed more than $2 billion of equity since its founding in April, 2000.
