Troll Communications Acquired by Quad Ventures

Posted on September 6, 2002

Quad Ventures LLC, a $100 million private equity firm focused on the education industry, announced that it has acquired Troll Communications L.L.C. Quad intends to draw upon its experience in children's publishing, direct marketing, and education to grow the company. Troll Communications., founded in 1958, publishes and distributes books and other educational materials primarily aimed at the pre-K through 9th grade market.

"Troll has been a trusted brand in education for over 40 years. In that time, it has developed extremely powerful and unique distribution channels for high-quality and high-value children's books," said Andrew Kaplan, a partner at Quad Ventures.

Peter Bergen, formerly president and CEO of the Weekly Reader Corporation, has joined Troll Communications as CEO. Bergen has over twenty years of experience in the education and publishing markets. Prior to his tenure at the Weekly Reader Corporation, Bergen was head of Krames Communications, Inc., a California-based publisher of health information materials. Bergen also held marketing positions for 16 years at Newbridge Communications, Macmillan Book Clubs, and Doubleday and Company.

"Troll has built an unparalleled brand in this industry by offering students, parents, and teachers high-quality books and educational products at affordable prices," said Bergen. "With strong upcoming offerings and our core business growing, I'm excited to work closely with other publishers, merchandisers, and authors to continue to develop our powerful distribution channel. I also intend to pursue strategic partnerships to further grow the business."

Quad Ventures LLC manages a $100 million private equity fund that invests in education and related media companies. Quad's current portfolio includes Troll Communications, Chancery Student Management Solutions, Educational Standards and Certifications, and KnowledgePlanet.

"We're pleased to add Troll to our investment portfolio and to work with such a strong brand in the education market," said Lincoln Frank, managing partner at Quad Ventures. "Peter's significant leadership, marketing, and strategic experience are a great fit for the company, and we're eager to work with the entire Troll team to expand on its strong history and presence."



More from Writers Write


Writing Contests
upcoming contests
Write Jobs
find a job
Writing Memes
funny writing-related memes
Stephen King Quotes
quotes from the master
Grammar Tips
improve your writing
Writing Prompts
spark your creativity