U.K.-based Clarion Events Takes Majority Partnership in Urban Expositions

September 1, 2015

U.K.-based Clarion Events, with more than 200 events in 35 countries, has become a majority partner in Kennesaw, Ga.-based Urban Expositions, which has a portfolio of 37 events serving nine industry sectors.

"We are thrilled to partner with such a well-established, international event organizer as Clarion," said Doug Miller, president and CEO, Urban Expositions.

He added, "We look forward to working closely with the Clarion team to start a whole new chapter for our respective companies. 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 diversify and grow."

Urban Expositions will keep its existing corporate identity, executive management team, staff, office locations, brands and events, with plans for collaboration on current, as well as future events and acquisitions.

Managing partners, Doug Miller and Tim von Gal, will retain significant ownership in Urban Expositions and will continue to oversee all facets of the business.  

"We have been searching for a strategic U.S. partner that shared our growth vision and customer service commitment and Urban Expositions was the perfect match," said Simon Kimble, executive chairman, Clarion Events, which is headquartered in the U.K.

He added, "In addition to the synergy we'll find in the industry spaces we share - like retail trade, art and gaming - we each bring complementary skills and capabilities to the table in other areas that promise to fuel our growth."

Urban's first acquisition under Clarion's ownership was announced  last week when the  company acquired  the Womens Wear in Nevada (WWIN) trade show, held semi-annually in Las Vegas, from Specialty Trade Shows. 

"We are extremely excited about the new opportunities our Clarion partnership will deliver," said Tim von Gal, COO, Urban Expositions.

He added, "The chance to reinforce our own assets and talented team with Clarion's global vision, expertise and versatile interests ensures that we're well-positioned to seek out new ventures and proactively respond to the ever-changing marketplace."

Some of Clarion’s shows cover sectors that include defense, telecom, gaming and oil and gas, to name a few.

Urban Exposition’s shows are in the gift, souvenir, apparel, art, aviation, foodservice, halloween & party, pet and gaming sectors.  

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