TRUMBULL, CT (September 8, 2017) –Clarion Events, has announced the appointment of Greg Topalian as CEO of Clarion UX, formally Urban Expositions, and LeftField Media, LLC.  

Clarion UX, with over 100 employees, operates and delivers 40 events in the B2B and B2C markets in the United States including market leading events SOFA Chicago, Philadelphia Gift Show, Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Show, Airport Revenue News, Women’s Wear in Nevada, The International Restaurant Show of New York, Halloween & Party Expo and the recently acquired Coffee Fest events. 

Topalian has a reputation in the industry for building dynamic cultures in the markets he serves. His people-first approach and ability to attract and retain top talent have propelled growth of his events both organically and through acquisition.  His 20+ year track record for success includes founding New York Comic Con and the 2014 boutique event start-up, LeftField Media, LLC. Greg actively serves on the SISO Executive Board (Society of Independent Show Organizers) and speaks at many industry events. 

Simon Kimble of Clarion Events commented, “We see a great future for the Clarion UX business. Greg’s vision and strategic leadership for growth along with our recent partnership with Blackstone will expand the US business making Clarion UX one of the fastest growing events companies in the market.”

LeftField Media, LLC, the boutique event company acquired by Clarion in 2016, serves a range of passion-based communities, fans and businesses reaching the worlds of comics, movies, television, games, anime manga, science, technology, education and classic automobiles. LeftField Media’s portfolio includes Anime NYC, Awesome Con, The Classic Auto Show, Crunchyroll Expo, AXPONA, Rose City Comic Con and Play Fair. Since its acquisition, LeftField Media has become the fastest growing division of Clarion UX.

“Clarion UX and LeftField Media both have very strong track records of success”, said Topalian.  “As we move forward, we will look to accelerate growth, deliver strategic innovation for our customers and continue with our focus developing and diversifying our portfolios through partnerships. Our culture remains my top priority and focusing on our people here today and the talent we want to attract will set our business apart from the competition.”