September 25, 2012
Belgium-based investment company Sofina agrees to acquire minority interest in international event planning group.
On September 21, it was announced that Sofina, a Belgium-based investment company, has agreed to acquire a minority interest in GL events and its parent company Polygone, both represented by Willkie. The acquisition of the interest in GL events will be facilitated through two successive capital increases valued at approximately €72 million. In addition, Sofina will acquire an 8.4% stake in Polygone's equity. The transaction remains subject to certain corporate and regulatory approvals including validation from French agency Autorité des marchés financiers. GL events is a leading fully integrated international provider of event solutions and services. The group operates in the three segments of the event industry market: organization of trade fairs, conventions and events; management of venues on behalf of local and regional administrations; and provision of services for events. The deal was handled by partner Daniel Hurstel, national partner Julien Mougel and associate Gil Kiener.
