Cloud learning player Skillsoft acquires ThirdForce in all-cash deal

27 Sep 2012

SSI Investments, the parent company of cloud-based learning provider Skillsoft, has acquired the entire share capital – or 80pc – of another Irish e-learning player, ThirdForce plc, which trades under the MindLeaders brand.

The all-cash deal was announced on 10 September and completed on 25 September.

The acquisition will enable Skillsoft to increase the quality and flexibility of the learning solutions it makes available to its corporate, government, education, and small-to-medium size business customers.

Also, the addition of MindLeaders’ capabilities will strengthen Skillsoft’s ability to expand its compliance-related business in the US and UK.

“MindLeaders’ learning content for food safety and adult care will immediately bring a wider range of compliance solutions to the customers we serve in the United States and United Kingdom,” Skillsoft chief operating officer Jerry Nine said.

“We are also excited about the potential to expand these compliance solutions to serve additional global markets in the future.”

ThirdForce was advised in the sale by international law firm Maples and Calder, which has also advised the company on a variety of transactions.

Education image via Shutterstock

Ireland’s digital leaders will gather to discuss cloud computing and the big data revolution at the Cloud Capital Forum on Friday, 23 November, at the Convention Centre Dublin

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com