Broadband Software Developer Roundbox Inc. Buys Jacked Inc.
By Eric Fisher, Staff Writer, SportsBusiness Journal
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New Jersey-based mobile broadcast software developer Roundbox Inc. has acquired interactive content developer Jacked Inc. in a cash-and-stock deal. Jacked, formed in '06 in L.A., quickly made a name for itself by striking a series of deals with NBC, the NBA, NHL, Comcast, Versus, the Big 10 Network and other sports broadcasters to create customizable, online companions to televised sports events that provide a steady stream of real-time statistics, news, photos, social media, merchandise links and other data, synchronized with the game action on TV. The company last year began a search for a round of venture capital, and meetings with potential strategic partners and minority investors soon morphed into negotiations for an outright acquisition of the company. Ultimately, there were 10 bidders for Jacked, with Roundbox's offer, not publicly disclosed, winning out. Roundbox will seek to integrate Jacked's technology into its mobile broadcasting platform, with products for upcoming tablet-style devices such as the iPad that blend mobile TV with the second-screen-type companion experience of particular interest. "We've known about Jacked for some time, and they've got a very interesting experience that we can't wait to roll out with ours," said Roundbox co-Founder Jim Nelson. Jacked CEO & Founder Bryan Biniak will join the Roundbox advisory board but will not have a day-to-day role with the company. "I didn't want to come east. I think the world of these guys and after four years with my head down building up this company, I'm really looking forward to taking some time and figuring out my next move," said Biniak, who is soon expecting his third child.
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