Emerald Expositions Acquires George Little Management for $335 Million

December 19, 2013

Emerald Expositions acquired George Little Management from Providence Equity Partners for $335 million.

The deal is subject to certain adjustments at and after closing.

"GLM is a truly outstanding tradeshow company with an exciting portfolio and an experienced and talented workforce,” said David Loechner, Emerald’s CEO.

He added, “This acquisition expands upon our position as a leading trade show organizer in the United States. I am excited about the opportunities for customers and employees of both companies that will result from bringing these two high-quality portfolios together."

GLM has more than 20 trade shows, including some of the largest shows in the United States, such as NY Now, which is at Nos. 29 and 30 for its biennial editions on the 2012 TSNN Top 250 Trade Show list.

GLM's trade shows serve industries as diverse as home furnishings, home textiles, stationery and paper products, giftware, tabletop, gourmet housewares, contemporary furniture and interiors, personal care, art & design, antiques & jewelry, fashion, board sports & resort lifestyle and e-commerce.

"This transaction demonstrates the strength of GLM's shows that have grown successfully thanks to the effectiveness of the GLM team and Providence's support,” said Charles McCurdy, GLM’s CEO.

He added, “This is a compelling opportunity going forward for GLM and its stakeholders, and I wish David Loechner and his team the best of luck as they seek to further expand GLM's product offerings and accelerate growth."

GLM has approximately 130 employees and operates out of six U.S. offices.

Michael Dominguez, a managing director at Providence, said "Charlie's leadership and the dedication of the entire management team were integral to the success of this investment. We're fortunate to have had the opportunity to partner with GLM to accelerate growth, launch new products and make acquisitions that increased the breadth of its shows. We believe GLM has a bright future as part of Emerald Expositions."

The transaction is expected to close in January 2014, subject to customary regulatory approvals.

The acquisition will be funded with approximately $200 million of debt and a $140 million equity investment from Onex Partners III.

Nielsen Holdings N.V.’s sale of Nielsen Expositions to private equity firm ONEX for $950 million was completed in June.


 
Under the new owner, Nielsen Expositions’ name was changed to Emerald Expositions.

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