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Premier Manager publisher Zoo Digital has been acquired by GreenScreen Interactive, the latest games venture established by GT Interative founder Ron Chaimowitz.
The move by New York based GreenScreen has also seen it acquire US publisher Destination Software, which Zoo has worked with over the past couple of years, bringing titles such as March of the Penguins to the European marketplace.
The deal will give Britsoft publisher Zoo the opportunity to move into next-generation publishing, with the firm now actively looking to acquire product for PS3 and Xbox 360 formats. In addition, a new brand, Zoo Games – a combination of both Desination and Zoo – will be used on both sides of the Atlantic as a casual games publishing label.
We are extremely excited about being part of the bigger GreenScreen group,” Zoo chairman Ian Stewart told MCV.
The people involved with the company were key for us; we’re looking forward to working with them and expanding our portfolio into new areas, including next-generation formats. It’s a great deal for us.”
GreenScreen CEO Chaimowitz offered: The acquisition of these two casual game publishers provides us with several advantages, including world-class management and infrastructure, strong US and European distribution, high-profile brands and and exciting line-up of products for the burgeoning mass-market sector.
"I’m looking forward to working with the seasoned industry team at GreenScreen, as well as our new partners at Zoo Games to build something truly special.”
The management team at Zoo, namely chairman Ian Stewart and MD Barry Hatch, will remain in place. In addition, the Sheffield company has just appointed Claire Mercer as sales and marketing director.
Founder and former CEO of Take Two Ryan Brant is a co-founder of GreenScreen.
Brant is not allowed to be on GreenScreen’s Board following his conviction for stock option backdating whilst at Take Two. He is not an officer of the company.
