Apollo Acquires Emerald Holding and Questex in $1.5 Billion Merger Deal
Private equity giant Apollo Global Management has announced a definitive agreement to acquire two major B2B events companies, Emerald Holding and Questex, in a transaction valued at approximately $1.5 billion. The strategic move involves merging these two entities into a single, unified platform that will oversee and operate a portfolio of roughly 160 trade shows and business events globally. This consolidation aims to create a dominant player in the business-to-business events sector, leveraging synergies between the two companies to enhance operational efficiency and market reach. By combining Emerald’s extensive network of industry-specific exhibitions with Questex’s diverse portfolio of technology and health-focused events, Apollo intends to build a comprehensive ecosystem for professional networking and commerce. The deal underscores the growing trend of consolidation within the live events industry as it recovers and evolves post-pandemic. This significant investment highlights Apollo's confidence in the long-term viability and growth potential of face-to-face business interactions, despite the rise of digital alternatives. The merged entity is expected to become a leading force in organizing high-impact professional gatherings across various sectors.
Wire timeline
Apollo Acquires Emerald Holding and Questex in $1.5 Billion Merger Deal
Private equity giant Apollo Global Management has announced a definitive agreement to acquire two major B2B events companies, Emerald Holding and Questex, in a transaction valued at approximately $1.5 billion. The strategic move involves merging these two entities into a single, unified platform that will oversee and operate a portfolio of roughly 160 trade shows and business events globally. This consolidation aims to create a dominant player in the business-to-business events sector, leveraging synergies between the two companies to enhance operational efficiency and market reach. By combining Emerald’s extensive network of industry-specific exhibitions with Questex’s diverse portfolio of technology and health-focused events, Apollo intends to build a comprehensive ecosystem for professional networking and commerce. The deal underscores the growing trend of consolidation within the live events industry as it recovers and evolves post-pandemic. This significant investment highlights Apollo's confidence in the long-term viability and growth potential of face-to-face business interactions, despite the rise of digital alternatives. The merged entity is expected to become a leading force in organizing high-impact professional gatherings across various sectors.
Quartz