Clarion Events has agreed to be acquired by Informa, bringing together two major international business-to-business events companies in a transaction that remains subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
If completed, the deal would place Clarion’s portfolio of 125 events and media brands within Informa’s global events business. Clarion employs nearly 2,000 people in 12 countries, while Informa has more than 14,000 employees across 30 countries.
Clarion Set to Join Informa
“This marks an important new chapter for our business,” said Lisa Hannant, chief executive officer of Clarion Events. “We have built a portfolio of market-leading brands, established strong positions in attractive markets and created a culture that is recognised across our industry.”
Hannant said the acquisition would give Clarion access to greater scale, investment and international reach. The companies also said they see opportunities to expand Clarion’s brands into additional markets and strengthen its data and digital capabilities.
Clarion has been owned by Blackstone since 2017. The company traces its history to 1947 and operates across a range of sectors and international markets.
Informa Expands Its Events Business
Informa Group CEO Stephen A. Carter said the companies share a focus on specialist and international markets.
“Clarion is home to world-class B2B brands and talent,” Carter said. “We share the same focus on serving major, specialist and international markets and delivering impact and value to our customers and partners. We’re excited to bring Clarion’s brands and teams into the Informa group and to further grow and expand our leading international B2B Live Events business.”
Informa operates across B2B live events, digital services and academic markets. The FTSE 100 company has more than 14,000 employees in 30 countries across the Americas, Europe, IMEA and APAC.
Blackstone Prepares to Exit
Blackstone has owned Clarion since 2017. Lionel Assant, Blackstone’s global co-chief investment officer, said the firm had worked with Clarion management to build a larger international events and exhibitions business during its ownership.
“Since our original investment in Clarion Events in 2017, our ambition has been to build a truly global leader in events and exhibitions,” Assant said. “As demand for global events continues to grow, we believe Informa is the ideal partner for Clarion’s next chapter, combining global reach, deep industry expertise and a shared focus on delivering exceptional experiences for customers.”
Clarion said business will continue as usual for customers, exhibitors, sponsors, partners and suppliers while the transaction moves through the approval and closing process.
Goldman Sachs International acted as sole financial adviser to Clarion Events.
About
Clarion Events is an international events and exhibitions organizer with 125 events and media brands and nearly 2,000 employees in 12 countries. The company was founded in 1947. For more information, visit clarionevents.com.
Press release submitted by Luther Pendragon on behalf of Clarion Events. Edited by Exhibit City News for clarity, length and style.
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