Blackstone Group has initiated the sale of Clarion Events, a prominent global organizer of trade shows spanning sectors such as electronics, gaming, energy, and defense. This move comes as financial markets stabilize, following a period of volatility influenced by U.S. tariff policies under President Trump.

Acquired by Blackstone in 2017 for £600 million, Clarion Events has demonstrated significant growth under its ownership. The company reported revenues of £432.9 million for the year ending January 2024, a substantial increase from £257 million the previous year. This growth is largely attributed to the recovery of the events industry, particularly in China and Hong Kong.

The sale has attracted interest from major private equity firms, including CVC, KKR, PAI Partners, Ardian, and Hillhouse Investment. Clarion is estimated to be worth around £2 billion, approximately 12 times its EBITDA. While there is no certainty of a deal, the improving investor sentiment has recently spurred several high-profile transactions in the sector.

Founded in 1947, Clarion Events has expanded its global footprint significantly. In 2018, the company merged with Global Sources, a leading Asian exhibitions and online B2B marketplace operator based in Hong Kong. This merger created one of the largest privately-owned exhibitions businesses globally, organizing 200 events per year and generating more than £300 million in revenues.

The events industry has experienced a resurgence post-pandemic, with in-person events returning and exceeding pre-COVID levels. This recovery has spurred significant deal activity in the sector. For instance, in July 2024, Informa agreed to acquire Ascential, the producer of the Cannes Lions advertising festival, for £1.2 billion. Additionally, KKR recently purchased Superstruct Entertainment from Providence for about €1.3 billion.

Blackstone's decision to sell Clarion aligns with this trend, aiming to capitalize on favorable market conditions and positive economic indicators. The sale process is being managed by Goldman Sachs, with the auction expected to value Clarion at more than £2 billion.

The potential sale of Clarion Events reflects broader recovery and consolidation trends within the events industry. A successful transaction could lead to further investments and innovations in the sector, potentially enhancing the quality and reach of global trade shows.

As the sale process unfolds, industry observers will be watching closely to see how this transaction influences the future landscape of the global events industry.