First Premium WordPress Theme Brand Sold

I noticed some interesting news last night and contemplated whether or not to cover it here.   It looks like Micheal of Solostream has sold his premium theme business to Jigsaw Group.   I’ve always been a big fan of Michael and his work at Solostream, so I’d like to first start this post by congratulating him.  It looks like he will still be working for Solostream, so future releases should have a similar look and feel to what we’ve come to expect from the Solostream brand. 

So, on to the post.   Unless I am forgetting another acqusition, it looks like this is the first premium WordPress theme brand to sell?  If so, that is pretty big news for this market.  

According to the announcement, we can expect some big changes over at Solostream:

Increased product offerings.

Under Michael’s direction, our immediate plans include the production of many new templates, which incorporate new features/plug ins and exciting designs.  We will be sending out announcements to keep you alerted as we ramp up our production schedule over the next few months.

Enhanced customer service.

You will continue to receive the same high levels of service that you have come to expect from Solostream.  Plus, we are adding personnel to our customer service team and creating a new forums area where you will be able to search for answers to your questions.

New innovations throughout the company.

We are also going to dedicate time and effort to improving communication and assisting the members of our Affiliate Program to generate new sales.

It looks like Solostream is moving more towards a business model that mirrors what Woo Themes (formerly Premium News Themes) has become.   A team of designers and developers that will work on creating new themes at a much more rapid pace.   It also allows for collaboration and improved innovation in themes.  

I think this has potential because buyers of their premium WordPress themes will get more than just the theme with their purchase.   The become part of a community, get forum support, etc.   Like I mentioned above, the business model has already found some success and I think it will here to. 

So, what do you think of this?   How will this affect the premium WordPress themes market?  Will other people sell their businesses as well?  Will the teams forming muscle out some of the individuals trying to start up their own businesses?   Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!