THE Survey Research Group (SRG) and Information Resources Inc (IRI) have agreed to merge their respective businesses in an exchange of shares valued at US$76 million.

Operating in 26 counties, IRI provides a range of information and software services to consumer goods companies.

SRG's core businesses are in retail tracking, media audience measurement and market research, concentrating especially on countries in the Asian region.

Negotiations are expected to completed by mid-summer for formal approval by the boards and shareholders.