InfoSpace Buys Switchboard

Acquisition Overview and Deal Structure

On Friday, InfoSpace, the internet search and directory firm, announced that it will purchase its competitor Switchboard for a total of $160 million. The agreement stipulates that the transaction will close no later than the end of 2004, pending regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. InfoSpace’s purchase price reflects Switchboard’s proven position in local online advertising and its proprietary yellow‑ and white‑page directory technology, which has been a mainstay for merchants and national advertisers seeking targeted consumer reach.

Switchboard has built a reputation as a leading provider of local advertising solutions that integrate with online yellow and white pages. Its platform enables small‑to‑mid‑size merchants to create listings that appear alongside search results for relevant keywords. The company’s technology is designed around consumer‑centric navigation, allowing users to discover local businesses quickly and easily. This functionality has made Switchboard a valuable partner for advertisers who want to capture intent‑driven traffic in specific markets.

InfoSpace’s own search and directory service already offers a yellow‑page search that focuses on local queries. By acquiring Switchboard, InfoSpace will effectively double its share of online directory traffic, gaining access to Switchboard’s extensive user base and the technology that drives it. According to research from