Message from Paul Romer:
On Friday, Feb. 16, Aplia agreed to be acquired by the Thomson Corporation. Aplia will become part of the Thomson Learning division that will be sold off by the parent corporation later this year. Thomson Learning will most likely be purchased by a private equity firm or group of firms.
Aplia agreed to this deal because a large, privately held firm provides the perfect environment for carrying out the kind of innovation that has been at the core of our success. I started Aplia because I could see missed educational opportunities. To cite one example, instructors were eager to try experiments in their economics classes. Students enjoyed experiments, learned from them, and retained what they learned. But most instructors couldn't do experiments because the time cost in setting them up was too high.
We set out to fill this gap. Our investors let us spend far more than any professor or campus could devote to creating and perfecting experiments. We created a new kind of business and made it possible for hundreds of thousands of students to experience first-hand the power of supply and demand or the tragedy that comes from common ownership of a natural resource.
Aplia could do this because it was under private ownership, and because it was dedicated to education and committed to doing more than just selling textbooks. Being part of a much larger organization with the same ownership structure and the same dedication and commitment will let us do even more.
Read on for answers to some of the practical questions you might have about the impact of the acquisition.
Will I still be able to use the kinds of products from Aplia that I've used before?
Yes. We will continue to support you regardless of the textbook you choose.
Will the price of Aplia remain the same?
Yes. Prices will not change for summer or fall courses.
Will I still get the same quality of support?
Absolutely. Aplia will maintain its current support system and high standards.
Will I still be dealing with the same people at Aplia?
Yes. Your sales rep will continue to assist you, as will the Aplia support team.
Will Paul stay involved with Aplia?
Yes. Paul will continue to play an integral role in leading and advising the company.
Click here to read the press release.