Our History
From humble beginnings to becoming a trusted industry leader, Magid consistently adapts to changing landscapes, offering innovative solutions and invaluable expertise for our clients.
The year was 1957. Drawing on a firm conviction that the study of human behavior could be a source of valuable insight to the business community, a professor of sociology, Frank N. Magid, presented his research to a group of local bankers. He talked about banking and, in particular, about people who use banks – their characteristics, their expectations, and their level of satisfaction. The presentation convinced bankers they could no longer rely on old rules and outdated assumptions.
The game was changing, and Magid’s research helped define the rules. Magid has been defining the rules ever since, through sound market research and effective consultation. What started as a one-man firm with a handful of clients has grown into an international organization, employing a staff of more than 125.
Today, businesses around the world — in more than 12 countries — take advantage of our research and marketing expertise. The success at Magid is a direct result of exceptionally high standards and a dedication to innovation and creativity.
For more than six decades, Magid has turned an uncompromising reputation for excellence into an unequaled record of success and growth for Magid’s clients and for the company itself.
A Humble Beginning
Frank Magid started this company in July 1957 with a one-room office on the 6th floor of the Guaranty Bank building in downtown Cedar Rapids.
1957
Frank Magid
Article titled, “When Frank Magid Speaks, His Clients Listen”. Frank Magid started his audience research company with one assistant and a rental typewriter.
1957
First Client Footsteps
Magid’s legacy jump started with its first client—Merchants National Bank.
1957
The Interview Trailblazer
Pat Quimby spearheaded Magid’s foray into audience insights, laying the groundwork for a pioneering research team that did door-to-door interviews.
Decades of Partnership with ABC
Since 1974, ABC has been our enduring client, marking it our longest-standing collaboration.
1974
1980s
Culinary Connections
The Magid team compiled over 100 pages of recipes for Kitchen Collections. It was presented as a heartfelt gift to our valued clients, forging stronger relationships through a shared love of good food.
The Magidites Debut
The Magidites, Magid’s first-ever co-ed softball team, was started by Don Yunker, a Consulting Associate for our radio division.
1981
1991
Leave a Message
Voicemail became a welcoming time-saving means of communication for Magid in the fall of 1991.
Pioneering the Digital Frontier with AOL
America Online became our inaugural Internet client, leading us into the digital age.
1995
2002
Leveling Up with EA Sports
EA Sports was our entry point into the gaming world, marking it our first Games client.
Millennial Momentum
In February 2005, we charted new territory with our “Millennial Program,” a strategic initiative to decode the preferences and behaviors of the Millennial generation.
2005
2011
Spearheading iAd Research with Apple
We collaborated with Apple on iAd usability research, enhancing consumer experiences.
EmotionalDNA Breakthrough
The transformative power of emotional data came in March of 2014 enhancing our data analysis techniques, integrating emotional data, and setting a new benchmark for research excellence.
2014
2018
Knowledge Core Launch
The spring of 2018 saw the introduction of our Knowledge Core, an innovation for proprietary research, with an initial focus on Subscription services.
Collaborator AI Newsrooms
Magid launches Collaborator AI Newsrooms, a cutting-edge tool revolutionizing journalism with AI efficiency. It delivers content true to your brand voice in record time, providing you with the gift of time and focus.
2023
Latest News + Insights
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