UK-based Clarion Events has acquired a majority stake in organiser Urban Expositions as part of its push into the US market.
The deal coincides with Atlanta-based Urban Expositions’ acquisition of semi-annual Las Vegas trade show Womans Wear in Nevada (WWIN) from Speciality Trade Show Inc.
Urban Expositions’ portfolio includes more than 30 events, such as the Halloween and Party Expo (pictured), and publications across five sectors: gift and souvenir, food service, aviation, gaming and art.
The business, which has revenue in excess of US$30m (£19.6m), also has offices in Connecticut and Florida.
“Our aim is to build on a strong position by seeking new events and businesses to support our growth in the US,” said Clarion chief executive Russell Wilcox. “It’s a market we have long desired to enter in a meaningful way, and in Urban we have found a management team who share our aspirations.”
“We’re very excited about what we can achieve together,” he added.
As previously reported in EW, Clarion was sold to global asset management firm Providence Equity in January 2015 in a deal reportedly worth more than £200m.
The company “now has the means to enter the US market in a significant way”, according to a written statement.
As part of the deal, Urban Expositions will maintain its corporate identity, executive management team and staff. Managing partners Doug Miller and Tim von Gal will retain significant ownership and will continue to oversee the business.
“We are thrilled to partner with such a well-established, international event organiser as Clarion,” said Urban Expositions president and chief executive Doug Miller. “Clarion’s forward-thinking leadership, proven experience and extensive resources will allow us to build upon our current show offerings while also pursuing new opportunities to acquire, diversify and grow.”
