Spotify has announced that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire Gimlet Media Inc. and Anchor podcast creation, publishing, and monetization services. Gimlet will bring its best-in-class podcast studio with dedicated IP development, production, and advertising capabilities. While Anchor will bring its platform of tools for podcast creators and its creator base.
The transactions are expected to close in the first quarter of 2019 and subject to customary closing conditions. Anchor is currently powering more than 40% of all new podcasts and through the recent launch of Anchor Sponsorships, the company has already more than doubled the number of total podcasters in the market who’ve been able to generate revenue by advertising.
Anchor also clarified that the way users create, distribute, and monetize on Anchor does not change. And that it will continue to operate the platform as is.
Daniel Ek, Spotify co-founder, and CEO said:
These acquisitions will meaningfully accelerate our path to becoming the world’s leading audio platform, give users around the world access to the best podcast content, and improve the quality of our listening experience as well as enhance the Spotify brand. We are proud to welcome Gimlet and Anchor to the Spotify team, and we look forward to what we will accomplish together.
Alex Blumberg and Matt Lieber, co-founders of Gimlet Media said:
Spotify is poised to become the largest audio platform in the world and we are excited for Gimlet’s award-winning podcasts to connect with new audiences around the world. The medium of audio is uniquely great at creating human connection and understanding. We are thrilled that Gimlet is joining Spotify to do that at a global scale, on the platform and beyond.
Michael Mignano, CEO of Anchor said:
We are incredibly excited to introduce Anchor’s industry-best podcasting tools to Spotify’s massive user base as we continue our journey, now with even greater resources. We look forward to continuing to empower creators all over the world to build an audience, generate revenue, and most importantly, have their voices heard.