Allworld Exhibitions sold to UBM plc

UBM plc, a leading global B2B events organiser, has announced the acquisition of Allworld Exhibitions (‘Allworld’) for a cash consideration of US$485m. Initium was the exclusive advisor to the shareholders of Allworld on the sale process.

Allworld is the leading privately owned Asian exhibitions business operating 51 tradeshows in 11 countries: Singapore, China & Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, South Korea, Bahrain and Kuwait. The company’s events serve nine key industry sectors, including Food & Hospitality, Packaging, Manufacturing, TMT and Oil & Gas.

Allworld is a family-owned business with a strong track record of organic growth, and generated revenues of US$97m and EBITDA of US$38m (39% margin) during the 12 months to 30 June 2016.

“This was one of the most competitive processes we have ever managed” – Jonathan Dunn, CEO, Initium

Jonathan Dunn, CEO, Initium, commented: “Allworld is a best-of-breed in its sector, and the interest we received in the business reflected that. It has been one of the most competitive processes we have ever managed at Initium, with interest from all over the world, including global private equity funds, sovereign wealth funds, major strategic acquirers and media conglomerates. Both our client and Initium are delighted with the final outcome.”