Generational Equity Advises Research Into Action in Sale to Opinion Dynamics

By Generational Equity

07/30/2019

Generational Equity, a leading mergers and acquisitions advisor for privately held businesses, is pleased to announce the sale of its client, Research Into Action Inc., to Opinion Dynamics Corporation. The acquisition closed March 1, 2018 and details were not disclosed.

Research Into Action provides market research and evaluation services to utilities, nonprofits, governments, and businesses that seek to advance their clean energy programs, services, and products. Based in Portland, Oregon, the company’s research expertise, consultation, and operational resources provide studies with meaningful insights to drive positive change in consumers’ choices in energy use.

“I am looking forward to combining forces with Opinion Dynamics,” said Dr. Jane S. Peters, President of Research Into Action. “A large consideration in selling Research Into Action was ensuring that our current staff would have opportunities to grow and fit into a culture that is focused on clients in the clean energy industry. I’m pleased that we found such a fit in collaborating with Opinion Dynamics.”

Dr. Peters will serve as Senior Vice President in the combined company.

Opinion Dynamics, headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, is the largest independently owned company specializing in research concerning energy efficiency, demand response, and renewable energy efforts.

“We have admired the work of Research Into Action for a number of years, and we are pleased to add their vast experience and knowledge of energy research to our team,” said Opinion Dynamics CEO Brad Kates. “Combining our companies allows us to continue to provide the quality of work that our clients have come to expect, while also helping us to further expand our core services.”

With this acquisition, Opinion Dynamics adds seasoned energy research professionals to its team, allowing the company to continue to provide cutting-edge research approaches to its clients, as well as allowing senior staff to continue their focus on answering the emerging questions clients are asking.

The combined company will continue to be headquartered in Massachusetts, with offices throughout the West Coast, including the Bay Area and San Diego, along with Portland.

Generational Equity Executive Managing Director M&A – West Stephen Crisham’s team, led by trusted affiliate Chris Sheppard with support from Vice President – Western Region, Bo Zhao successfully closed the deal. Senior Managing Director Roger Dean established the initial relationship with Research Into Action.

“I really enjoyed working with Jane on this deal,” said Sheppard. “Her goals in selling Research Into Action were to both retire comfortably and take care of her employees, and I am glad we were able to help her accomplish both.”