VitalSource Acquires RedShelf to Enhance Digital Learning
Deal News | Apr 21, 2025 | Globenewswire
VitalSource Technologies, a company renowned for delivering digital content across the higher education ecosystem for over 30 years, has announced its acquisition of RedShelf, a Chicago-based course materials provider. This move is expected to expand VitalSource’s network of institutional and publishing partners to enhance its commitments towards affordable and effective learning solutions in the higher education sector. With the digital transformation of the course materials market and the proliferation of AI-powered educational tools, combining efforts with RedShelf will allow VitalSource to deliver improved technology and responsive solutions to its global partner network. Both companies align in their vision and purpose, emphasizing student-centered approaches to learning content delivery. By acquiring RedShelf, VitalSource aims to solidify its position as a leader in the educational technology industry, preparing a robust and flexible learning delivery network for the future.
Sectors
- Educational Technology
- Publishing
Geography
- United States – Both VitalSource and RedShelf are based in the USA, with RedShelf headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and VitalSource in Raleigh, North Carolina. The acquisition impacts numerous US higher education institutions.
Industry
- Educational Technology – This sector involves the use of technology to enhance learning experiences and includes companies like VitalSource and RedShelf, which provide digital content and innovative solutions for educational institutions.
- Publishing – RedShelf collaborates with numerous publishers to distribute course materials, indicating the relevance of the publishing industry.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| VitalSource Technologies, LLC | Acquiring Company | Company | A recognized leader in digital content delivery across the higher education sector, providing impactful learning resources globally. |
| RedShelf | Target Company | Company | A Chicago-based company specializing in digital and print course materials, serving over 1,400 institutions and millions of students annually, focused on improving education through technology. |
| Kent Freeman | CEO of VitalSource | Person | Chief Executive Officer of VitalSource, guiding the company's vision in educational technology and digital content delivery. |
| Rob Holland | CEO of RedShelf | Person | Chief Executive Officer of RedShelf, steering the company's mission to innovate course materials delivery through technology. |