eHarmony is one of the most popular online dating platforms in the world, known for its unique approach to matchmaking. But who owns eHarmony? This question is important for anyone who wants to understand the company’s values, goals, and overall strategy. In this article, we will explore the ownership structure of eHarmony and explain why it matters for users and investors alike. Whether you are a fan of the site or simply curious about the business behind it, keep reading to learn more.
Who Owns eHarmony?
In the world of online dating, eHarmony is a well-known name that has been around for over 20 years. The company was founded in 2000 by Dr. Neil Clark Warren, a clinical psychologist who had a passion for helping people find love. Over the years, eHarmony has become one of the most successful and recognizable online dating platforms, but who owns this popular dating site?
The Early Days of eHarmony
When eHarmony first launched, it was a privately held company that was owned by Dr. Warren and his son-in-law, Greg Forgatch. The company was based in Pasadena, California, and quickly gained popularity due to its unique matchmaking algorithm that was designed to help people find long-term relationships.
Changes in Ownership
In 2004, eHarmony experienced a significant change in ownership when it was purchased by Sequoia Capital, a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California. The acquisition was worth $110 million, and Sequoia Capital became the majority owner of the company.
In 2007, eHarmony once again changed hands when it was bought by the German media company, ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE. This acquisition allowed eHarmony to expand its reach into Europe and other international markets.
The Acquisition by ParshipMeet Group
In 2018, eHarmony was acquired by the ParshipMeet Group, a leading online dating company based in Hamburg, Germany. The acquisition was worth $85 million, and eHarmony became a subsidiary of the ParshipMeet Group.
The ParshipMeet Group is known for its portfolio of successful online dating platforms, including Parship, EliteSingles, and eDarling. The acquisition of eHarmony allowed the company to expand its reach in the United States and other English-speaking markets.
The Future of eHarmony
Under the ownership of the ParshipMeet Group, eHarmony has continued to thrive and grow. The company has made several updates and changes to its platform, including the addition of a mobile app and the introduction of a new video dating feature.
The ParshipMeet Group has also invested heavily in marketing and advertising for eHarmony, which has helped to increase the company’s visibility and attract new users.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, eHarmony has had several changes in ownership over the years. From its early days as a privately held company to its acquisition by Sequoia Capital and ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE, eHarmony has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the online dating industry.
Today, eHarmony is owned by the ParshipMeet Group, a leading online dating company that is committed to helping people find meaningful, long-term relationships. With its innovative matchmaking algorithm and commitment to customer satisfaction, eHarmony is poised to continue its success for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
### Who owns eHarmony?
eHarmony was founded by Dr. Neil Clark Warren in 2000. In 2018, German media company ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE announced that it had acquired a majority stake in eHarmony. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it was reported that the acquisition valued eHarmony at $85 million.
### Is eHarmony a free dating site?
eHarmony is not a free dating site. While you can create a profile and receive matches for free, you must pay for a subscription to communicate with other members. eHarmony offers several subscription options, ranging from one month to one year, with prices varying depending on the length of the subscription.