Clarion Events, AC Business Media Both Make Strategic Acquisitions

August 1, 2017

U.K.- based Clarion Events, which was just acquired by Blackstone, and AC Business Media both recently made strategic acquisitions to add to their growing portfolios.

Clarion, the parent company of iGB Affiliate, acquired the Affiliate Summit Corporation, which includes the Affiliate Summit tradeshow and conference series, FeedFront Magazine, GeekCast.fm, ReveNews.com, and the annual AffStat industry benchmark reports.

Affiliate Summit Co-Founders, Missy Ward and Shawn Collins will continue running Affiliate Summit in the capacity of Co-CEOs.

"Clarion is widely regarded as a leading event organizer, and we will be harnessing their expertise in order to expand internationally and bring our events to the next level,” Collins said.

He added, “Becoming part of Clarion will add value to our current brands and provide an opportunity to take new products to emerging markets. Bringing Affiliate Summit and iGaming Business together will deliver enhanced benefits to attendees and exhibitors alike.”

Alex Pratt, managing director – iGB Affiliate, Clarion Events said, “This is a really exciting acquisition for Clarion, bringing together the biggest affiliate marketing events company with Clarion’s resources, expertise and successful affiliate shows in igaming and finance.

He added, “Missy and Shawn have established an extremely strong business and we are looking forward to a successful collaboration to improve the US events as well as launch the Affiliate Summit brand internationally.”

Fort Atkinson, Wis.-based AC Business Media acquired the conNextions Trade Show from the Door and Hardware Institute.

“ConNextions is the leading trade show servicing the door, hardware, safety and security sectors in the non-residential construction industry,” said Nick Curci, president of Corporate Solutions, whoch handled the deal for DHI.

He added, “Exhibitors are manufacturers of doors, frames, hardware, electronic access control, software systems and equipment. ConNextions recently held its 40th annual event in Phoenix, and it will be held in Baltimore in 2018.  AC Business Media, with its existing strong brands and relationships in the construction market, will certainly be in a position to grow the show significantly by all measurements.”   

Jerry Heppes, CEO of Door & Hardware Institute, said, 'Nick Curci and Corporate Solutions have been an outstanding partner to DHI on the recent sale of our event conNextions.  I have personally known Nick for a half dozen years as he was diligent in always checking in on our needs.”

Hepppes added that DHI initially had not considered selling the show.

“Last year, Nick approached us with an early offer and helped us to understand the strategic and business parameters of this decision.  The initial offer was not consummated, but we were so impressed with Nick and had determined it was the appropriate strategic move for DHI, that we engaged Nick as our broker.”

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.