Gutersloh, Germany - German media conglomerate Bertelsmann announced on Friday that it has agreed to sell its direct-to-consumer business, Direct Group North America, to Phoenix, Ariz.-based Najafi Companies for an undisclosed sum.

Direct Group is one of the largest direct marketers of books, DVDs and recorded music in the region, known to consumers by its Columbia House and Book-of-the-Month Club brands, which serve millions of customers via club catalog mailings and e-commerce sites.

"Bertelsmann is committed to the US market and will redirect resources to other business opportunities," said Bertelsmann CFO Thomas Rabe.

Najafi has also made investments in the alternative energy, consumer products, social media and real estate markets.

The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter.

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http://www.bertelsmann.de

http://www.columbiahouse.com

http://www.najafi.com