- Blackstone is selling Clarion Events, the organizer of major iGaming shows like ICE, for an estimated £2 billion as markets stabilize post-pandemic.
- Clarion’s strong financial recovery, with £432.9 million in revenue, makes it appealing to buyers like CVC and KKR, despite challenges like market uncertainty.
- The sale could influence the future of iGaming events, potentially bringing new ideas or expansion to shows you attend or follow
If you’re tuned into the iGaming world, you’ve probably heard of Clarion Events, the group behind major shows like ICE and iGBLive!.
Big news dropped recently: Blackstone, the company that owns Clarion, is looking to sell it. Here’s what you need to know about this move and what it means for the industry.
Why Blackstone Is Selling Now
Blackstone bought Clarion Events in 2017 for £600 million ($802 million) and now aims to sell it for around £2 billion ($2.68 billion), according to sources. The timing feels right. After a rough patch of market volatility, driven by global trade tensions and U.S. tariff policies, things are starting to stabilize.
Clarion’s strong recovery since the pandemic, with revenues jumping to £432.9 million in the year ending January 2024, makes it an attractive buy. You can see why Blackstone thinks now’s the moment to cash in.
What Clarion Brings to the Table
Clarion runs some of the biggest events in gaming, electronics, energy, and more. If you’ve attended ICE, you know it’s a hub for iGaming professionals to network and showcase new ideas.
The company’s global reach and solid financials—outperforming cashflow expectations—make it a hot prospect for buyers like CVC, KKR, or PAI Partners. For you, this means Clarion’s events will likely keep running smoothly, no matter who takes the reins.
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Challenges in the Sale
Selling a company like Clarion isn’t a slam dunk. Market uncertainty, especially in Europe, and a slow recovery in corporate travel pose risks. Buyers might hesitate, knowing global demand can shift quickly.
Still, Blackstone’s confidence in Clarion’s value suggests they believe the right buyer will step up. If you’re in the iGaming space, you’ll want to watch how this sale shapes the future of major industry events.
What’s Next for iGaming Events
The sale could shake up how iGaming events like ICE evolve. A new owner might bring fresh ideas or expand these shows further. For you, whether you’re an exhibitor, attendee, or just a fan of the industry, this move signals that big players are betting on gaming’s growth. Stay tuned to see who buys Clarion and what changes come next.
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