JUPITER RESEARCH -- Feb 12 -- The U.S. online dating market continues to grow, but faces a stagnation in the number of users paying for access. A new report is out: "Online Dating in 2007: US Market Searches for New Users as European Market Challenges U.S. Dominance." U.S. dating sites are converting browsers into payers better than ever but needs to offer additional paid services, and tap into new user segments, to reignite significant market growth. European dating sites are attracting new users and will double revenues from 243 million euros in 2006 to 549 million euros in 2011. European dating site usage has grown consistently since 2003 and will increase from 2.8 million paid users in 2006 to 6 million in 2011. In 2003, Europeans spent 1/4 as much as U.S. users. In 2006 1/2 as much, and in 2011 they will spend more than 3/4 as much. However, by 2011 the European market will have largely matured.
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Mark Brooks: Dating sites need to consider integrating high end matchmaking services, consulting/coaching services telephony services. Match is leading the way in all three departments. Also, relevant and targeted advertising will become a bigger contributor to U.S. dating sites revenue mix.