Blackstone to Auction Clarion Events: A Look at the Corporate Events Giant
In a significant move within the corporate events sector, Blackstone, the renowned private equity firm, has enlisted the expertise of Goldman Sachs to facilitate the sale of Clarion Events. This auction is poised to value the company at over £2 billion, marking a pivotal moment in the landscape of trade shows and corporate gatherings. The sale process is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2025, setting the stage for a competitive bidding environment.
Clarion Events: A Brief Overview
Founded nearly 80 years ago, Clarion Events has established itself as a leading player in the corporate events industry. The company operates some of the world’s largest trade shows across various sectors, including defence, consumer electronics, and gaming. With a workforce of close to 2,000 employees, Clarion has become synonymous with high-profile events that attract global audiences and industry leaders.
Since Blackstone acquired Clarion in 2017 for £600 million, the company has undergone significant expansion. This growth trajectory has been bolstered by strategic investments, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the events industry faced unprecedented challenges. Blackstone’s additional capital injection during this tumultuous period was crucial in stabilizing Clarion’s operations and ensuring its resilience in the face of adversity.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Clarion Events
The pandemic brought about a seismic shift in the events industry, with lockdowns and restrictions forcing many companies to reevaluate their business models. Clarion Events was no exception, facing heightened concerns due to its substantial presence in China, where COVID-19 restrictions were particularly stringent. The company’s ability to navigate these challenges has been a testament to its adaptability and the strategic foresight of its private equity backers.
As the world gradually emerges from the pandemic, the corporate events sector is witnessing a resurgence. This renewed interest in in-person gatherings has created a favorable environment for Clarion, positioning it as an attractive asset for potential buyers.
The Corporate Events Landscape
The upcoming auction of Clarion Events comes at a time when deal-making in the corporate events sector is gaining momentum. Recently, Ascential, the owner of the prestigious Cannes Lions advertising festival, agreed to a sale to Informa, highlighting the growing appetite for acquisitions in this space. As companies seek to capitalize on the recovery of the events industry, the Clarion auction is expected to draw significant interest from both strategic buyers and private equity firms.
What Lies Ahead for Clarion Events
As Blackstone prepares to initiate the auction process, the future of Clarion Events hangs in the balance. The company’s strong brand recognition, extensive portfolio of trade shows, and robust operational framework make it a compelling investment opportunity. However, potential buyers will need to consider the evolving dynamics of the events industry, including the ongoing impact of digital transformation and changing consumer preferences.
While Blackstone has declined to comment on the auction, the anticipation surrounding this sale underscores the importance of Clarion Events in the corporate events landscape. As the auction date approaches, industry stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments, eager to see how this pivotal transaction unfolds.
Conclusion
The decision by Blackstone to sell Clarion Events marks a significant chapter in the corporate events sector. With Goldman Sachs at the helm of the auction process, the sale is expected to attract considerable interest, reflecting the growing optimism surrounding the recovery of the events industry. As Clarion prepares for this new phase, its legacy as a leader in the trade show arena remains firmly intact, promising an exciting future for both the company and its potential new owners.