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Apollo Global Management to Merge Two Trade Show Firms in $1.5B Deal

other · 2026-05-11

Private equity firm Apollo Global Management is acquiring two business-to-business trade show companies, Emerald Holding and Questex, in a deal valued at approximately $1.5 billion. The acquisition will merge the two firms into a single platform that will operate around 160 events annually. The move consolidates the trade show industry, which has seen increased private equity interest as live events recover post-pandemic. Apollo plans to leverage operational efficiencies and cross-selling opportunities across the combined portfolio. The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2024, subject to regulatory approvals.

Key facts

  • Apollo Global Management is buying Emerald Holding and Questex.
  • The deal is valued at about $1.5 billion.
  • The two companies will be merged into a single platform.
  • The combined entity will run approximately 160 events.
  • The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2024.
  • The deal is subject to regulatory approvals.
  • The trade show industry is consolidating amid private equity interest.
  • Apollo aims to achieve operational efficiencies and cross-selling.

Entities

Institutions

  • Apollo Global Management
  • Emerald Holding
  • Questex

Sources