The digital transformation that all is preoccupying Bertelsmann across all divisions gains further momentum. For instance, RTL Group invests heavily in multi-channel networks and digital advertising marketing in order to expand its market leadership in online video. Networks like StyleHaul, BroadbandTV and Blogwalk, which market thousands of successful Youtubers and bloggers, join the group. In 2015 alone StyleHaul achieves over 60 million unique viewers and 1 billion video views per month, making it the largest fashion, beauty and lifestyle network on Youtube.
Gruner + Jahr invests heavily in the expansion of digital activities and simultaneously launches an efficiency program. In October 2014 Bertelsmann acquires all outstanding shares in Gruner + Jahr – a strategic milestone in strengthening the content businesses.
In 2014 Bertelsmann achieves a breakthrough in establishing education as the third pillar of the portfolio alongside media content and services: The Group acquires the online education provider Relias Learning, its biggest purchase in the U.S. since the acquisition of Random House in 1998. Bertelsmann also buys a stake in the Silicon Valley company Udacity, a leading e-learning provider. In 2015, this is followed by a shareholding in the prestigious Alliant International University in the U.S.