Best Buy has agreed to acquire GreatCall, the parent company of Jitterbug, for $800 million.
Best Buy says the two companies have had a retail relationship for a decade, with Jitterbug phones available at many Best Buy locations. Jitterbug phones are targeted at seniors and are easy to use. In addition to the Jitterbug devices, GreatCall offers customers an easy way to connect with a healthcare professional or emergency services.
Best Buy said it plans to use the acquisition expressly to expand into the growing health services market. Once the acquisition is complete, GreatCall will operate as an independent company and CEO David Inns will remain at the helm. GreatCall will stay in its San Diego headquarters.
The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval.
