STRATEGIC ACQUISITION

CLIENT

Jaarbeurs, one of the largest trade fair organizers in the Netherlands, with a broad portfolio of national and international events and a strong focus on strategic growth. 

CHALLENGE 

Jaarbeurs aimed to strengthen its position within the rapidly growing EdTech sector through the acquisition of IPON, the leading platform and trade fair for educational innovation and ICT. This strategic acquisition required a careful approach, both in terms of content and process. The challenge was to accurately assess IPON’s market value, growth potential, and strategic fit within a relatively short time frame. 

OUR APPROACH

Advanced Fair Netherlands acted as Jaarbeurs's strategic partner during the entire acquisition process and supervised the client intensively for six months. The complexity of this strategic acquisition required a multidisciplinary approach combining market insight, financial underpinning and process guidance.

We started with a thorough exploration of the EdTech sector in the Benelux and adjacent markets. Using market data, trend analysis and competitive comparisons, we mapped the landscape. This enabled us to clearly identify IPON's position in the ecosystem of educational innovation and objectively evaluate its distinctiveness from other players.

Based on our market insights and financial models, we provided a realistic valuation of IPON. We considered not only the platform’s current performance but also future sales potential, scalability, and possible synergy benefits for Jaarbeurs. This valuation was a crucial starting point for negotiations.

In close collaboration with legal and financial advisers, we developed a robust acquisition structure. We balanced the interests of all parties involved, with attention to the continuity of the IPON brand, retention of expertise, and integration opportunities within Royal Jaarbeurs’ broader strategy. Thanks to well-thought-out phasing and clear agreements, a sustainable transfer was guaranteed.

We conducted an in-depth analysis of IPON’s commercial performance and strategic positioning. This included evaluating visitor and exhibitor data, customer satisfaction, marketing reach, and competitive market dynamics. We also assessed risks related to market developments and technological disruption. The insights from this due diligence process gave Royal Jaarbeurs the confidence to proceed with the acquisition wholeheartedly.

THE RESULT 

Thanks to our integrated approach, Royal Jaarbeurs was able to complete the acquisition successfully within the set timeframe. The strategic acquisition of IPON not only strengthens Jaarbeurs’ position within the EdTech domain but also creates immediate opportunities for content-driven synergies and long-term growth.

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