Interfolio Acquisition: Key Details, Impact, and What Comes Next

Elsevier's acquisition of Interfolio marks a significant development in the higher education sector. By integrating Interfolio's advanced faculty information solutions into its Research Intelligence portfolio, Elsevier aims to enhance its support for academic researchers and institutions. This strategic move underscores the growing trend of consolidation in the industry, promising more comprehensive tools and insights for scholarly work.

What Is Interfolio?

Founded in 1999, Interfolio provides technology solutions to support academic institutions and scholars. Its core products include the Faculty Information System, Faculty Search, Faculty Activity Reporting, Review, Promotion & Tenure, Lifecycle Management, Data Service, Faculty Web Profiles, and Dossier. Interfolio's unique selling points include comprehensive support for the entire faculty lifecycle and a strong reputation, being trusted by over 500 colleges and universities. The platform is designed to empower academic leaders for strategic impact.

Who Acquired Interfolio?

Elsevier is a prominent information analytics business that supports researchers, healthcare professionals, and various industries with high-quality data and analytics. The company offers a range of key products and services, including researcher tools, research management and evaluation solutions, healthcare solutions like ClinicalKey AI, and industry-specific data services. Recognized for its significant contributions to advancing science and healthcare, Elsevier holds a strong market position and is noted for its impact on global research and healthcare practices.

When Was Interfolio Acquired?

Elsevier completed its acquisition of Interfolio on June 7, 2022. This move aligns with the broader industry trend of consolidation within the academic and research sectors. By integrating Interfolio's faculty information solutions, Elsevier aims to enhance its Research Intelligence portfolio. The timing of this acquisition underscores the increasing concentration of data and services among a few large corporations, reflecting a strategic effort to provide comprehensive platforms for higher education institutions and researchers.

Why Was Interfolio Acquired?

• Market Expansion: The acquisition of Interfolio allows Elsevier to significantly broaden its market reach. Interfolio supports over 400 higher education institutions, research funders, and academic organizations in 25 countries, providing Elsevier with a substantial international presence. This move also diversifies Elsevier's academic segment revenue beyond libraries, targeting university provosts' offices and research funders.
• Technology Integration: Interfolio's advanced faculty information solutions, including Faculty Information System (FIS), Dossier, and Researchfish, will be integrated into Elsevier’s Research Intelligence portfolio. This integration aims to enhance Elsevier's existing research information management systems and analytics tools, providing a more robust and comprehensive set of tools for academic institutions and researchers. The combined portfolio will deliver sophisticated analytics and increased data automation, improving efficiency and expanding insights.
• Competitive Advantage: By acquiring Interfolio, Elsevier strengthens its position against competitors like Clarivate. The synergy between Interfolio’s expertise in faculty activity and Elsevier’s extensive resources in research publishing and information analytics creates a premier researcher career management and research information management system. This strategic move is expected to provide Elsevier with a competitive edge, offering bundled packages and preferential integration that could weaken competitors and increase market lock-in for academic institutions.

Acquisition Terms

• Acquisition Price: The acquisition price was not publicly disclosed.
• Payment Method: The payment method was not specified.
• Key Conditions or Agreements:
  • Interfolio will be integrated into Elsevier’s Research Intelligence portfolio.
  • Interfolio clients’ contracts and historic rights remain unchanged.
  • Commitment to data rights and privacy will continue to be honored and protected.
  • The acquisition is subject to regulatory review.
  • Macquarie Capital served as the exclusive financial advisor to Interfolio.

Impact on Interfolio

The acquisition of Interfolio by Elsevier has led to notable changes in operations and management. Interfolio is now part of Elsevier’s Research Intelligence portfolio, with Andrew Rosen continuing to lead the business. This integration aims to support more institutions internationally, increase data automation, and provide sophisticated analytics tools. The operational focus remains on maintaining high-quality service with the same team of account managers, implementation specialists, and customer support managers, ensuring a seamless transition for existing clients.

In terms of product offerings, Interfolio’s advanced faculty information solutions, including the Faculty Information System (FIS), Dossier, and Researchfish, are now integrated into Elsevier’s portfolio. This merger promises enhanced analysis and insights for academic researchers, research leaders, institutions, and funders. While the leadership expresses optimism, some customers have voiced concerns about data privacy and the growing concentration of services under a single corporate umbrella. For founders considering business transitions, tools like Sunset can assist in managing such processes compliantly, ensuring a smooth and secure transition.