The Nielsen Company is a global market research business with industry-leading positions in marketing, media and entertainment information and a strong presence in business publications and trade shows. The Company's businesses are true franchises providing mission critical data to its customers in more than 100 countries. The Firm partnered with other investors to acquire over 98% of the company.

Nielsen's three primary businesses are Nielsen Media Research, the leading provider of television ratings in the United States and the universally accepted "currency" on which TV advertising is bought and sold; AC Nielsen, the leading provider of point-of-sale data measuring sales of retail products on behalf of consumer products companies; and Nielsen's Business Information unit, a leading operator of business publications and periodicals and event expositions in verticals such as marketing and media (Adweek, Billboard), retail trade, and construction.