Blacksmith Applications Acquires TABS Analytics

Blacksmith Applications, a provider of SaaS-based trade promotion management and optimization software to the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry, announced its acquisition of TABS Analytics. The combined entity brings together the trade effectiveness, data analytics, category management and shopper insights solutions of TABS with the technical acumen, trade management expertise and domain knowledge of Blacksmith. This acquisition further establishes Blacksmith as a revenue management solution provider with a global operational footprint and a marquee roster of more than 350 CPG clients spanning Fortune 100 to mid-market and specialty manufacturers.

TABS solves one of the biggest challenges for consumer goods companies: turning data overload into insights by breaking down information silos that develop within CPG manufacturers. TABS aims to bring a unique capability of combining data science with virtual shopper research and insights to deliver business intelligence that benefits retailers and CPG manufacturers. By being able to harmonize and analyze data, then test, validate and learn about shopper behaviors, TABS helps CPG companies improve productivity and accelerate their return on investment (ROI).

TABS's solutions, combined with Blacksmith's applications, analytics and data, are expected to enable CPGs to spend their time driving revenue, not dissecting data. Together, the organizations will manage, analyze and optimize omnichannel retail promotions through a unique mix of proprietary technology and a consultative performance analytics practice.

Marlin & Associates acted as the exclusive strategic and financial advisor and BakerHostetler acted as legal advisor to TABS for this transaction. The TABS acquisition is Blacksmith's fourth since 2018.