Illinois-based GS Media & Events snapped up eight consumer shows from RJ Promotions, Inc. to expand the company’s position in multiple recreational markets across the western United States.
In the deal announced Sept. 4, GS Media acquired the following shows:
- Des Moines Boat & Sport Show
- Des Moines RV & Outdoor Show
- Topeka Boat & Outdoor Show
- Topeka RV & Sport Show
- Overland Park & Outdoor Show
- Colorado Springs RV & Outdoor Show
- Colorado Spring RV & Travel Expo
- El Paso RV Show
Vilma Fraguada, President of GS Media & Events, told Trade Show Executive that adding the shows will expand the company’s presence in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas and Texas. Well-established in the outdoor arena, GS Media and Events owns and operates more than 25 consumer shows across the United States that highlight recreational vehicles, camping, outdoor and boating.
Fraguada also noted that acquiring the eight new trade shows will “leverage the synergies we have across the RV, Outdoor and Recreational categories.” GS Media shows include a variety of motorized RVs, travel trailers and folding campers as well as expert advice from industry professionals.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Kevin Hummer, President and CEO of RJ Promotions, Inc. told TSE that GS Media initially approached RJ Promotions with interest in acquiring the shows. Hummer said he was confident the eight shows will grow and flourish under GS Media’s guidance.
“We believe GS events will be able to take the shows and do wonderful things with them,” Hummer said.
Despite the loss of the eight outdoor-focused shows, Hummer said RJ Promotions will continue to operate 32 other shows and expos across the United States.
Nick Curci, president of Corporate Solutions of Westport, Conn. which advised RJ Promotions on the deal, told TSE that GS Events was the natural company to buy the eight shows given their “existing broad reach in these markets.”
Reach Vilma Fraguada at (847) 229-6730 or Vilma.Fraguada@GoodSam.com; Kevin Hummer at (800) 756-4788 or kevinh@rjpromotions.com; Nick Curci at (203) 226-4040 or ncursi@csmergers.com
