An In-Depth Analysis of Endurance International Group (EIG) and Its Hosting Brands

Endurance International Group (EIG), now rebranded as Newfold Digital, stands as a significant entity in the web hosting industry. Established in 1996 under its original name BizLand, EIG has evolved into one of the most influential conglomerates in the hosting sector. Headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts, EIG initially embarked on its journey as a web hosting provider before undergoing a series of acquisitions that expanded its influence.

Historical Overview and Ownership

In 2011, EIG came under the ownership of Accel-KKR and GS Capital Partners. This transition marked a pivotal point in EIG’s trajectory, enabling it to grow its portfolio significantly. As of February 10, 2021, EIG was acquired by Clearlake Capital Group for approximately $3 billion, leading to the creation of Newfold Digital, which now encompasses EIG’s extensive array of hosting brands.

The Scale of EIG’s Hosting Empire

Comprehensive Portfolio of Hosting Brands

EIG’s extensive acquisition strategy has resulted in a vast portfolio of hosting brands. As of the latest update, EIG manages over 80 web hosting brands globally. This impressive list includes:

  • Bluehost (acquired in 2011)
  • HostGator (acquired in 2012)
  • iPage (acquired in 2009)
  • Arvixe (acquired in 2014)
  • IX Web Hosting (acquired in 2015)
  • JustHost (acquired in 2011)
  • Web.com (acquired in 2019)
  • Domain.com
  • FatCow
  • HostMonster (acquired in 2011)
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… and many more. This diverse range of brands allows EIG to cater to various market segments, from small businesses to large enterprises.

Financial Performance and Market Impact

EIG’s financial performance has been a mixed bag. For instance, in 2019, EIG reported a revenue of $277.2 million but faced a net loss of $12.3 million. The subscriber base also witnessed fluctuations: from approximately 5.2 million in mid-2017 to around 4.8 million by the end of 2019. This trend underscores the challenges of managing a vast portfolio of brands and the competitive nature of the web hosting market.

Sub-brands and Their Evolution

EIG’s hosting brands vary significantly in terms of performance and service quality. For example:

  • Bluehost has continued to thrive under EIG’s management, evolving into a leading web solution provider with a broad spectrum of hosting services.
  • HostGator and JustHost also maintain a robust presence in the market.
  • Conversely, brands like eHost, HostClear, and IX Web Hosting have been phased out, with their users migrated to other platforms.

Evaluating EIG’s Hosting Brands

Quality and Service Differentiation

It is crucial to note that not all EIG brands offer the same level of service. Some brands have seen substantial improvements and continue to excel, while others have been neglected or discontinued. The variance in service quality often reflects the level of investment and management focus each brand receives.

Noteworthy Brands

  • Bluehost: Renowned for its comprehensive range of hosting solutions and exceptional customer support.
  • HostGator: Offers a wide variety of hosting plans and features, catering to diverse needs.
  • iPage: Known for its affordable plans and user-friendly interface.
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Brands Discontinued or Underperforming

  • eHost: Ceased operations, with its customers transitioned to other EIG brands.
  • HostClear: Phased out, with users absorbed into other hosting services.
  • IX Web Hosting: Acquired in 2015, but later discontinued as a standalone brand.

BBB Rating and Customer Feedback

EIG’s brands generally receive a positive rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), reflecting their commitment to addressing customer complaints and maintaining service standards. However, customer experiences can vary widely between brands, highlighting the importance of researching individual hosting providers within the EIG portfolio.

Alternative Hosting Providers

For those seeking alternatives to EIG brands, several reputable hosting companies offer competitive services:

  • ScalaHosting: Provides a range of hosting solutions, including cloud hosting on Amazon AWS infrastructure.
  • Cloudways: Specializes in managed cloud hosting with excellent scalability.
  • Hostinger: Offers budget-friendly hosting with numerous server locations.
  • InMotion Hosting: Known for its reliability and two decades of experience in the industry.
  • LiquidWeb: Delivers high-quality hosting with robust support and excellent uptime.

Conclusion

EIG, now operating under Newfold Digital, represents a significant force in the web hosting industry with its vast portfolio of brands. While the conglomerate’s scale and market influence are undeniable, the quality of service and customer experience can vary widely among its many brands. For those considering EIG’s offerings or looking for alternatives, it is essential to carefully evaluate each brand’s performance and service standards.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of EIG’s extensive portfolio, customers can make informed decisions and select hosting solutions that best meet their needs.