By Aimee Chanthadavong
Daily deal website Stardeals by Groupon Australia has acquired Melbourne-based group buying site Crowdmass.
Crowdmass was launched by young entrepreneurs Ying Wang, David Wei and Tim Wu in May 2010, which has attracted a strong following in Melbourne.
Stardeals managing director Alexandra Podeanu told RetailBiz that the acquisition was more of a talent acquisition rather than a business acquisition.
“Crowdmass was a very small business run by the three founders where we saw the opportunity for a talent acquisition. We liked the guys because they were motivated, they understand the business that have entrepreneurial spirit. They were also interested in growing with us,” she said.
Stardeals by Groupon Australia began operating in Australia on February 14, first offering deals in Sydney, shortly followed by Melbourne and Brisbane, in addition to offering deals on a national basis.
“We’re very happy with the development so far and we’ve grown organically in such a short period and we’re not looking to grow through acquisition but if there is anybody else out there looking to join the team and sell their business then more than welcome.”