Shutterfly Acquires Former Williamson Subsidiary

REDWOOD CITY, CA—Shutterfly Inc., an Internet-based social expression and personal publishing service, has acquired certain assets and liabilities of Dallas-based WMSG Inc. (WMSG) to enable a complete solution for variable data print marketers and other print-on-demand opportunities. WMSG is a privately-held, digital direct marketing provider with data management and marketing analytics capabilities.

Originally formed as a subsidiary of Williamson Printing, WMSG began independent operations in 2005. The transaction, which closed Nov. 5, was structured as an asset purchase for $6 million cash.

“We’re excited to combine WMSG’s data management and marketing analytics capabilities with Shutterfly’s state-of-the-art manufacturing resources. Together, we believe we can bring efficient, scalable end-to-end variable digital marketing solutions to direct marketing campaigns of any size and scope,” said Jeffrey Housenbold, president and CEO of Shutterfly. “The WMSG team brings a wealth of experience delivering high-ROI direct marketing campaigns and other print-on-demand services that will greatly benefit our existing commercial clients and help enable accelerated growth in this large and growing market.”

WMSG provides direct marketing campaigns for marketing agencies and several Fortune 500 clients, including Toyota and Dell. WMSG President Jim Liszewski will join Shutterfly and lead the commercial print initiative reporting to Dwayne Black, senior vice president of operations. Shutterfly's flagship product is its photo book line.