Dealmakers: Connecting the dots in event mergers and acquisitions

In a recent review of the global exhibitions market, Steve Monnington of Mayfield Merger Strategies highlighted some of the major deals and potential acquisitions taking place in the industry. Despite a slower start to the year with only 26 reported transactions in the first six months compared to 63 in total last year, there are still some exciting developments on the horizon.

One of the notable acquisitions was made by Easyfairs, who acquired EPHJ, Switzerland’s largest trade show for high-precision engineering. This event, which covers watchmaking, jewellery, microtechnology, and medical technology, was founded in 2002 and boasts nearly 800 exhibitors and over 23,000 visitors. The acquisition fits seamlessly into Easyfairs’ portfolio of engineering events, and the current EPHJ team will continue to manage the show.

CloserStill Media also made a strategic move by acquiring PARCEL Forum, the leading package fulfillment event in the US. Founded in 2003 by Joel Dunkel, PARCEL Forum rotates between different cities in the USA and is set to have 135 exhibitors and around 2,000 attendees at the 2025 show in Chicago. This acquisition marks CloserStill’s fourth of the year and complements its Future Transport Division, expanding its US-based portfolio to over 25 events.

Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) shifted its focus back to its home country by purchasing a majority stake in Movestro S.r.l, the organizer of IBF – the Italian Bike Festival. Launched in 2018 in Rimini, IBF has become one of Europe’s premier cycling festivals, attracting 600+ brands and approximately 57,000 visitors in 2024. This acquisition adds to IEG’s existing sports and wellness exhibition brands in Italy, further solidifying its presence in the market.

In China, there has been a scarcity of M&A news in recent years, with only a few notable exceptions. GL Events made a small acquisition in the veterinary sector, while other major international organizers seemed to be waiting for clarity on the trade tariff situation. However, strategic alliances like the collaboration between Messe Frankfurt and Golden Osmanthus Culture Group regarding Notes Shanghai exhibition suggest a potential shift in the market towards more cooperative ventures.

The sale of Centaur Media’s MiniMBA program to Brave Bison for £19m raises questions about the future of the group. With MiniMBA representing a significant portion of Centaur’s revenue in 2024, the company’s remaining divisions, including The Lawyer publication, marketing events and publishing portfolio, and Industry Intelligence and Consultancy businesses, may be up for grabs. This potential breakup could be driven by a desire to maximize shareholder value and leverage the company’s significant cash reserves.

Looking ahead, Blackstone’s reported initiation of a sale process for Clarion Events could have major implications for the industry. Acquired in 2017, Clarion has been a significant player in the market, and its potential sale may signal further consolidation or expansion within the exhibitions sector. Overall, the M&A landscape in the events industry continues to evolve, with new deals and partnerships shaping the future of the market.