Global exhibitions and events organizer Hyve has announced that leading private equity firm Hellman & Friedman (H&F) has agreed to acquire the company from Providence Equity Partners and Searchlight Capital Partners in a transaction reportedly valued at approximately $1.8 billion. The deal highlights the strong recovery and growth potential of the global exhibitions industry and is expected to close by the end of the year.
According to reports, the acquisition represents a substantial increase in Hyve’s valuation compared to the estimated $500 million valuation when the company was taken private in 2023.
Strategic Acquisition Signals Confidence in the Events Industry
The acquisition underscores increasing investor confidence in the exhibitions and live events sector, which has experienced significant expansion driven by growing demand for business networking, industry ecosystems, and technology-enabled event experiences.
With a portfolio of internationally recognized event brands and a strong growth trajectory, Hyve has emerged as one of the most influential players in the global events market, attracting the attention of major investors seeking exposure to high-growth business platforms.
Hyve CEO Mark Shashoua Welcomes New Growth Chapter
Commenting on the acquisition, Hyve CEO Mark Shashoua said the company has consistently identified emerging market opportunities and adapted to evolving industry trends through innovation and technology-driven solutions.
Shashoua noted that Hellman & Friedman’s investment represents the beginning of a new phase of growth for Hyve as it responds to increasing demand from global businesses seeking deeper engagement and stronger industry ecosystems.
He also expressed appreciation to Providence Equity Partners and Searchlight Capital Partners for their support in transforming Hyve into a faster-growing and more diversified organization over the past three years.
Strong Performance Under Providence and Searchlight Ownership
Since being taken private in 2023, Hyve has implemented its ambitious GO27 growth strategy, a three-year plan designed to more than double the size of the business.
The company has delivered impressive results during this period, including three consecutive years of double-digit organic revenue growth. Hyve also expanded its EBITDA to more than $100 million, reflecting strong operational performance and increased demand across its global event portfolio.
The successful execution of the GO27 strategy has positioned Hyve as one of the fastest-growing exhibition and event organizers worldwide.
Portfolio Includes Leading Global Event Brands
Hyve operates an extensive portfolio of internationally recognized exhibitions, conferences, and industry events. Its flagship brands include HLTH, Shoptalk, Bett, POSSIBLE, Manifest, and the ASU+GSV Summit, which serve sectors such as healthcare, retail, education, marketing, logistics, and technology.
The company currently manages 31 events across 18 global brands, creating influential platforms that connect businesses, decision-makers, innovators, and industry leaders from around the world.
Through these events, Hyve facilitates networking, knowledge sharing, business development, and investment opportunities across multiple high-growth industries.
Future Plans Focus on Expansion and Strategic Acquisitions
Following the completion of the acquisition, Hyve plans to collaborate closely with Hellman & Friedman to accelerate its next stage of growth. Key priorities include launching new international events, expanding complementary products and services, and pursuing strategic acquisitions in high-growth sectors.
The partnership is expected to strengthen Hyve’s position as a leading global event organizer while supporting its vision of building year-round industry ecosystems that extend beyond traditional exhibition formats.
A Landmark Deal for the Global Exhibition Industry
The acquisition of Hyve by Hellman & Friedman represents one of the most significant transactions in the global exhibitions and events sector in recent years. As demand for industry-focused business communities continues to rise, the deal highlights the increasing value investors place on event businesses that combine live experiences, digital engagement, and year-round networking opportunities.
With strong financial performance, a globally recognized portfolio, and ambitious expansion plans, Hyve appears well-positioned to continue its growth journey under its new ownership and further strengthen its role in shaping the future of the global events industry.
