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.
Partner Voices
Dallas already boasts 35,000 hotel rooms, award-winning global cuisine, and a walkable downtown. But we are just getting started.
Visit Dallas is thrilled to announce that the city of Dallas is doubling down with a massive new convention center and entertainment district. Featuring 800,000 square feet of exhibit area, 260,000 square feet of meeting rooms, and 170,000 square feet of ballroom. The center will connect business travelers with dining and shopping options in the popular Cedars District means more places to get down to business, and even more ways to unwind.
“Dallas is already a great meetings and conventions destination, with the accessibility of two major airports, affordable labor, and an outstanding hotel product,” said D. Bradley Kent, Visit Dallas senior vice president and chief sales officer. “The new center and Convention Center District will enhance Dallas’ competitive position and are exactly what our customers’ need and have been asking for."
What’s New – AT&T Discovery District
Located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, this new district on the AT&T corporate campus is tailor-made for groups of all sizes. It boasts a multi-sensory experience, including outdoor event space, the AT&T Theater, and multiple dining outlets including JAXON Beer Garden and The Exchange, a bustling food hall.
Hotels Coming Soon
Names like the JW Marriott (Downtown), lnterContinental Dallas (Uptown), and Hotel Swexan (Uptown) are adding luxury amenities and bountiful event spaces. The projects will debut in 2023 and beyond.
JW Marriott
This new, 15-story, 283-room hotel will open in the heart of the city’s downtown Arts District this year. The property features a 25,000-square-foot grand ballroom, as well as a spa, restaurant, lobby bar, fitness center, and a rooftop pool deck and bar.
InterContinental Dallas
Located in Cityplace Tower in Uptown, InterContinental Dallas will feature sweeping panoramic views of the Dallas skyline. Guests will enjoy spacious, high-end rooms and amenities, including more than 21,000 square feet of event space.
Hotel Swexan
Hotel Swexan, a new, 22-story luxury property, is rising in Uptown’s Harwood District and will make its mark on the Dallas skyline. Opening this year, it is a sculptural building with cantilevered upper floors, as well as a 75-foot rooftop infinity-edge swimming pool and a hidden underground lounge.
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