Global prepaid and payments organisation Blackhawk Network has acquired employee engagement provider Grass Roots Group.
The move is expected to enable Grass Roots to offer employers a global approach to benefits, reward and recognition packages through Blackhawk's network.
Meanwhile, California-based Blackhawk Network will look to extend its global reach further by utilising the reward products offered by Grass Roots.
Grass Roots Group will operate as a subsidiary of Blackhawk Network. Matthew Howe and Jonathan Kenny, co-managing directors of Blackhawk Network’s UK-based European operations, will now also lead the European operations of Grass Roots Group. Stewart Rigby, managing director at Blackhawk Asia Pacific, will take over Grass Roots' Asia Pacific operations.
Richard Bandell, chief executive officer at Grass Roots Group, said: “Inspiring people in the workplace, starting with our own employees, has always been at the heart of what Grass Roots does so we’re really excited about the opportunities this partnership brings. Joining Blackhawk opens up significant growth opportunities for Grass Roots, transforming us into a leading global business and we’re confident that employers and their staff will benefit greatly from the relationship.”
Bill Tauscher, executive chairman at Blackhawk Network, said: “The acquisition of Grass Roots complements the existing client portfolio of Blackhawk’s incentives business, and enhances solutions for customers requiring global reward and incentive platforms and products. We will also offer new products and capabilities to Grass Roots’ clients.”
