Thomson Reuters and KKR Announce Joint Venture for Thomson Reuters Global Print Business

Thomson Reuters Corporation has entered into a definitive agreement to form a joint venture with KKR, a prominent global investment firm, by selling a 51% stake in its Global Print business for approximately $500 million. The transaction, announced on July 14, 2026, will allow Thomson Reuters to retain a 49% equity interest in the joint venture, which will hold an exclusive license to distribute content in print and on the ProView eBook platform. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

The Thomson Reuters Global Print business specializes in providing legal and tax information in print format, as well as through the ProView platform, to legal professionals, governments, and educational institutions. The business also offers commercial printing services to a diverse range of book publishers. This transaction aligns with Thomson Reuters' strategy to focus on its core digital offerings while ensuring that its trusted print content continues to serve the professionals who rely on it.

KKR's investment is expected to provide the Global Print business with the necessary capital and operational support to thrive as a standalone entity. KKR has a history of helping companies unlock value and optimize their operations, which could enhance the growth potential of the Global Print business. The joint venture will allow Thomson Reuters to maintain editorial control and intellectual property rights, ensuring the integrity and quality of its content while leveraging KKR's expertise in scaling businesses.

The broader market dynamics indicate a shift in the publishing sector, particularly in the legal and tax information space, where digital solutions are increasingly favored. However, the demand for high-quality printed reference materials remains strong among certain professional segments. This joint venture reflects a strategic move by Thomson Reuters to balance its traditional print offerings with a growing emphasis on innovative digital solutions, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence for the legal, tax, and compliance industries.

As the transaction progresses towards closure, it may signal a trend among traditional publishing companies to seek partnerships with investment firms to enhance operational efficiency and capitalize on emerging market opportunities. The collaboration between Thomson Reuters and KKR could serve as a model for other companies in the sector looking to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving landscape while maintaining a foothold in both print and digital markets.