Web developer Net Driven acquired

SCRANTON, Pa. (April 24, 2015) — Net Driven, the web site developer focused on the tire retail and auto service sector, has been acquired by Internet Brands Inc. a Los Angeles-based online services business originally known as CarsDirect.com.

Net Driven, founded in 2007 by Patrick Sandone III of Sandone Tire, supplies the automotive aftermarket industry with a comprehensive suite of Web presence products.

“Net Driven's keen focus on specific niches within the automotive industry has created a thriving business that nicely complements our existing technology solutions servicing automotive OEMs and franchise dealers,” said Robert Brisco, CEO, president and director of El Segundo, Calif.-based Internet Brands.

Net Driven's primary client base is independent automotive businesses including tire dealers, auto repair shops, auto body shops, used car dealers and auto parts retailers. The company will join Internet Brands' automotive client solutions portfolio, which also includes Autodata Solutions, Chrome Data and CarsDirect.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Internet Brands is the ideal partner with which to continue Net Driven's rapid growth,” said Mr. Sandone, CEO of Net Driven, who will continue to head the business under Internet Brands' ownership.

“We're thrilled to be a part of Internet Brands' impressive automotive portfolio and are now in a better position than ever to continue our mission of helping automotive businesses thrive.”

As part of Internet Brands, Net Driven will continue to operate from its headquarters in Scranton, while retaining the company's workforce.

Since launching in 1998 as CarsDirect.com, Internet Brands has become a fully integrated online media and client services organization focused on four categories: automotive, health, legal and home/travel.

The company claims more then 75,000 clients and said consumer websites it has developed serve more than 100 million monthly visitors.

Mr. Brisco has been CEO, president and director of Internet Brands since 1999.

The company's Automotive Group manages more than 135 sites, predominantly those of car clubs and enthusiasts' groups, but also including: CarsDirect.com; ChromeData; autodata.net; CarConnection.com; and wikicars.com.

Internet Brands itself was acquired last summer by KKR & Co. L.P., a leading global investment firm.