In a significant step toward strengthening its service portfolio and driving innovation, Teleperformance has acquired ZP Better Together, a prominent U.S.-based provider of communication solutions for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Valued at $490 million, this acquisition is more than just a financial transaction—it represents a key milestone in Teleperformance’s strategic roadmap aimed at sustainable growth and technological advancement.
ZP Better Together has carved out a niche in the market with its specialized Video Relay Service (VRS) and Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) solutions. With projected revenues exceeding $230 million in 2024, the company’s operations complement Teleperformance’s existing specialized services. By integrating ZP’s expertise, Teleperformance not only diversifies its service offering but also strengthens its position in high-margin markets that promise long-term profitability.
Fully financed through debt, the $490 million deal underscores Teleperformance’s disciplined approach to financial management. Despite the scale of the investment, the company expects to maintain a debt-to-EBITDA ratio below 2x through 2025. This prudent strategy ensures that shareholder value remains a top priority while expanding into new, high-growth sectors. As explained in the article on Ceoworld, this acquisition is projected to be accretive to earnings from the first year, reinforcing Teleperformance’s commitment to delivering immediate and measurable returns.
Another critical aspect of this strategic move is the role of leadership in driving transformation. Teleperformance’s executive team, reshuffled earlier this year, brings a wealth of experience and complementary expertise. Chairman of the Board Moulay Hafid Elalamy, CEO Daniel Julien, and Deputy CEO Thomas Mackenbrock are spearheading initiatives focused on governance, innovation, and financial stewardship. Under their guidance, the company has streamlined decision-making processes and aligned executive incentives with shareholder interests.
Looking ahead, Teleperformance plans to double down on artificial intelligence (AI) as a key enabler of growth. Investments in machine learning, predictive analytics, and conversational AI are expected to transform service delivery, making interactions faster, smarter, and more personalized. These technologies will allow Teleperformance to capture opportunities in dynamic industries such as healthcare, e-commerce, and financial services while enhancing operational efficiency.
“AI is a strategic pillar for us, enabling us to meet evolving client needs with precision and agility,” said Thomas Mackenbrock. By integrating AI-driven solutions, the company aims to stay ahead of market trends and deliver superior customer experiences.
Governance remains a cornerstone of Teleperformance’s approach. The company’s inclusion in indices such as CAC 40 ESG and FTSE4Good underscores its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. As it navigates the complexities of scaling its operations, Teleperformance will need to balance innovation with financial discipline to maintain investor confidence.
The acquisition of ZP Better Together, combined with the rollout of AI initiatives, signals Teleperformance’s ambition to lead the digital business services sector. However, the company’s ability to turn these bold moves into tangible results will depend on effective execution and adaptability in a fast-paced market environment.
For industry leaders, Teleperformance’s approach offers valuable insights into managing large-scale acquisitions and deploying innovative technologies while adhering to governance best practices. As the company embarks on its next chapter, the focus will be on converting strategic investments into long-term value creation for all stakeholders.
