UBM in talks with Advanstar (Magic, ENK...)

By

Bruno Joly

Published
Sep 23, 2014

The tendency toward consolidation is continuing among English-speaking trade shows. UBM has confirmed that it is in talks to purchase Advanstar, which "may or may not lead to a transaction," according to a statement. 

Through the deal, the British fashion event giant, which has extensive operations in Asia, would acquire the American company behind major trade shows in cities such as Las Vegas, including the monster fashion event Magic.

According to the Financial Times, UBM would be willing to pay more than 900 million dollars (700 million euros) for Advanstar, which is owned by several investment firms including Anchorage Capital Group. 

If the transaction is carried out, it would yet another a new step in the industry’s consolidation. While Reed recently acquired Agenda and Capsule, Advanstar purchased ENK International in 2012. 

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Advanstar organizes 54 trade shows in the US and the UK and a hundred or so conferences. Its portfolio includes Magic, ENK, Coterie as well as FN Platform for footwear. 

Meanwhile, in 2013, UBM acquired through a joint venture Novomania, the young Shanghai fashion trade show that either no longer exists, or is in very extended standby. 

But UBM, a global heavyweight in event management, states that it organizes 400 events worldwide, including Cashmere World, Fashion Access and Cosmoprof Asia. 

It has a strong presence in Asia via UBM Asia. The purchase of Advanstar could add fire to the rumor of a future edition of Magic on Chinese soil.