Freeman Acquires Australia-based Staging Connections Group Limited
October 21, 2015
Taking a major step to expand its overseas footprint, Dallas-based Freeman, a global provider of brand experiences, has acquired New South Wales, Australia-based Staging Connections Group Limited, a global event services company.
Founded in 1986, Staging Connections is an international business with offices in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and China.
With its 15 offices and 600 employees throughout ANZPAC, Staging Connections provides Freeman with an immediate presence throughout the region, according to Freeman officials.
“As our clients are expanding globally, they want the same level of Freeman quality, service, technology and support in markets around the world,” said Joe Popolo, Freeman’s CEO. “This acquisition provides us with an immediate presence in ANZPAC and connects us with an organization and team that shares our values and our design-driven, customer-centric approach to business.”
He added, “There are tremendous growth opportunities by combining these two great companies. Staging Connections has strong relationships with the leading brands in ANZPAC and a reputation for superior production design. Together, we will continue to deliver an unparalleled suite of services to our clients around the world.”
Staging Connections is aligned with Freeman’s value system and culture, and brings a customer-centric approach focused on innovation, partnerships, employee development and customer success, according to Freeman officials.
“There are a lot of synergies between Staging Connections’ culture and that of Freeman, particularly our customer-centric approach to event delivery. We’re confident that we will fit together seamlessly,” said Tony Chamberlain, managing director of Staging Connections.
Ken Sanders, president of Freeman Audio Visual, added, “We’ve been working with Staging Connections over the years and have been impressed with their people and their culture. There couldn’t be a better fit for Freeman as we continue to expand into global markets. I’m excited to have them join our audio visual division and thrilled to have managing director, Tony Chamberlain, as a partner.”
The acquisition was approved by Staging Connections’ shareholders at their shareholder meetings on Sept. 24 and by the Federal Court of Australia Oct. 1. Staging Connections now is part of Freeman’s audio visual division and will retain its brand.
Partner Voices
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