After yesterday’s news of SiGMA partnering with Clarion for an affiliate facing conference at ICE, an even bigger bomb was dropped today (Friday, December 18) when it was announced Clarion Events Ltd are in the final stages of acquiring Electric World’s 70% of iGaming Business and 5.1% of Michael Caselli’s shares for a deal worth £19.7 million.
Consolidation of operators and affiliates within the online gambling industry has been a big theme for 2015 and the trend now expands to conference organizers. While the details of the deal have not yet been revealed, the industry can expect to continue working with the current iGaming Business team as usual.
As reported by iGamingBusiness.com, Clarion’s Managing Director Kate Chambers said, “We are really excited about cementing our relationship with iGaming Business. Clarion already works closely with iGaming Business and this acquisition will enable us to combine the strengths within the two groups”.
Alex Pratt of iGaming Business said, “Clarion is widely regarded as the leading event organiser in gaming and we will be harnessing its expertise in order to improve customer engagement across our events. Becoming part of Clarion will add value to our current brands and provide an opportunity to take new products to emerging markets. Bringing the biggest business-to-business and affiliate events closer will, I am certain, deliver enhanced benefits to delegates and exhibitors alike”.
iGaming Business’s Michael Caselli added, “Both companies aim to facilitate business through information and interaction in the gaming industry. Clarion’s portfolio complements iGaming Business’ and this acquisition benefits our combined clientele. This deal contributes toward the continued development of the industry”.
Clarion’s Chief Executive Julian Turner said in a statement, “I am delighted that we have reached agreement to sell iGB to Clarion at an attractive valuation. iGB has performed exceptionally well in recent years, led by a talented management team and exceptional staff”.
