Zenfolio acquires Format website-building business

Zenfolio has acquired Format, a worldwide website-building platform and marketplace based in Toronto, Canada. Both companies offer SaaS business solutions; Zenfolio since 2006 and Format since 2010. Terms weren’t disclosed. The two brands will initially operate in parallel, each retaining its current employee workforce and subscription base. Format will continue to be headquartered in Toronto. Zenfolio headquarters will continue to be located in Menlo Park, Calif.

“We deeply respect the Format brand, their employees and community, and the business they have built,” said John Loughlin, CEO, Zenfolio. “This combination will expand the capabilities and services offered to our respective customers.”

“Since creating Format, we have cared deeply about our community and team,” said Lukas Dryja, CEO and co-founder, Format. “Partnering with Zenfolio is a tremendous opportunity for both. The Format community will benefit from Zenfolio’s extensive technology services while Zenfolio customers will have access to world class tools and designs to showcase their work online.”

The Format acquisition continues a strategy launched by Zenfolio three years ago to reimagine the company, the company said. Zenfolio recently unveiled a new cloud-based technology platform using artificial intelligence and machine learning.

“Bringing together two leading platforms for photographers allows us to accelerate the development of new services by taking best in breed features and capabilities and making them available to customers of both companies,” Loughlin explained.