Shelton, CT October 3, 2024 — Clarion Events is proud to announce the launch of The Clarion Events Collaborative: Elevating Association Events, a strategic partnership initiative to maximize the value and impact of associations’ event approach and management.  

Clarion has appointed Chris Brown, former EVP of NAB and now principal at Level Up Event Strategies, to lead The Clarion Events Collaborative along with Liz Irving, President of Clarion Events North America. 

This offering provides associations a unique experience partnering with a for-profit organization that values collaborative decision-making, culture, community, and a deal structure that ultimately enhances the associations’ opportunities for accelerated event revenue supported by Clarion Events’ extensive expertise, resources and global network. 

The Clarion Events Collaborative empowers associations to elevate their events beyond traditional boundaries while minimizing risk for potential new products. By partnering with Clarion Events, associations gain access to vast knowledge and experience, ensuring their events are successful, memorable, and impactful. This will deliver increased ROI for members while associations maintain ownership interest, further strengthening the foundation of the partnership. 

Clarion Events' proven track record in association partnerships and acquisitions along with a commitment to customer value globally position The Clarion Events Collaborative as a catalyst for accelerating innovation and growth. This acquisition initiative allows associations to focus on their core mission, vision, and values while Clarion Events handles the complexities of event strategy and management and partners for meaningful community engagement.  

This approach has already supported numerous associations in expanding their reach, building stronger connections with members, and discovering new revenue streams; among valued partners are Special Operation Forces (SOF) Week in Tampa, International Consumer Technology Association (IFA) in Germany, the National Grocers Association (NGA) in Las Vegas, and the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) in San Diego. 

“I’d like to thank the whole Clarion team for their trust and prolific cooperation. Partnering with Clarion has truly been a game-changer for us. Even in this short span, our collaboration has yielded remarkable results, and we're excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Clarion's international expertise aligns perfectly with our ambition to make IFA the world's most significant technology trade fair.”  Dr. Sara Warneke, Managing Director (GFU Consumer & Home Electronics GmbH) 

“The Indian Gaming Association and Clarion Events have been working together for 10 years. The Clarion team we work with in the US really understands our community, culture and walk with us every step of the way in achieving our goals. They have proven to be a trusted partner, and the business continues to build with the open communication and trust we have.” Jason Giles, Executive Director, Indian Gaming Association 

Chris Brown commented, “Clarion Events stands out as an organizer because they understand the importance of shared vision and value. The partnerships they have built in North America and Globally are a true testament to their understanding of what it takes to form a successful association partnership and professionalism within the events they deliver. I am thrilled to work alongside Liz and her team on this new focused venture.” 

The Clarion Events Collaborative is more than a product; it's a promise to empower associations long-term to achieve their strategic goals while providing their members with exceptional event experiences. The Clarion Events Collaborative offers associations a customized customer experience focused on their unique needs, fueled by expert support ranging from data-driven growth and revenue strategies to technology innovation, partnerships, marketing communications, design, and logistics. 

Irving shared, “I am thrilled to announce the launch of The Clarion Events Collaborative and its distinct focus on associations and their members. This will elevate Clarion’s ability to host market-leading events and further our commitment to fostering collaboration, driving industry growth, and meeting the unique needs of all Clarion customers. We are dedicated to building with association partners to provide exceptional value and creating transformative experiences that will shape the future of the events industry.”  

Clarion Events has decades of experience, deep industry knowledge, and insights that have proven successful in identifying and integrating acquired events and products. This, coupled with Clarion’s strong financial position, provides the necessary resources to support acquired events and give them the backing needed to grow and thrive.  

Irving further commented, “With over 25 years in the event industry, I continue to seek new ways to drive value through partnerships. After many conversations with associations and industry leaders, I am committed to bringing an innovative approach to the industry that provides a mutually beneficial long-term strategy for the for-profit organizer and association-led events, to build a dedicated team for association support, and I am excited to roll this out to complement Clarion’s growth strategy.” 

For more information on how Clarion Events can accelerate your association visit our website here. 

Supporting Materials 

• Liz Irving Headshot here»

• Chris Brown Headshot here»

• The Clarion Events Collaborative Logo here»

 

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About Clarion Events North America: 
Clarion's North American Headquarters, Clarion Events, Inc. produces 65 events across 12 sectors including trade and enthusiast events. Clarion Events North America which is the U.S. division of Clarion Events, UK, and backed by The Blackstone Group has become one of the fastest-growing event companies in the United States with aggressive growth through acquisition, launch, and innovation. Clarion Events, Inc. has offices in Shelton, CT; Tulsa, OK; and Rochelle Park, NJ. 
Learn more: us.clarionevents.com  
 

About Clarion Events:  
Clarion Events is the world’s largest privately owned event and exhibition organizer, producing and delivering innovative and market-leading events and digital products across the globe. Since its inception in 1947, the company has grown into a truly international organization, with a portfolio of a 150 events and media brands across a range of vertical markets. Clarion Events employs nearly 2,000 people in 13 countries around the globe. 

The organization aims for each of their products to become a market leader in customer satisfaction and delight whilst retaining talented people and loyal partners. The business constantly strives to increase its value across long term vertical industries with significant international growth potential. Clarion Events is presented as a best-in-class, customer centric and digitally enabled partner. 

By applying a customer first approach across the organization, they create outstanding platforms and products for their customers and partners to grow their own businesses. 
Learn more: clarionevents.com  

 

Media Contact 
Amanda Gochee, Clarion Events North America 
203.274.9218 | amanda.gochee@clarionevents.com