GL events is a key player in the three major events markets: congresses and conventions; cultural, sporting, institutional or political events; trade shows and exhibitions.
* Sofina is represented in the decision-making bodies of the company.
Sector
Other
Direct and indirect shareholding percentage
27.4%
Offices worlwide
90+
Hosted events
4,000+
Events designed and set up
4,200+
Established in 1978, GL events provides event services to a large number of public and private clients around the world – companies, institutions and event organisers – supporting its clients in all their event projects.
The group is organised according to three main areas of expertise. GL events Live, historically the core activity of GL events, brings together all the activities that serve corporate, institutional and sports events. Its teams provide turnkey solutions, from advice and design to delivery. GL events Exhibitions runs more than 300 of its own trade shows, in many different sectors: agribusiness, culture, textile/fashion and manufacturing. GL events Venues manages a network of 50+ event sites (convention centres, exhibition centres, concert halls and multifunctional halls) spread over 12 countries.
Investment history
France | 2012
Sofina acquired a stake in GL events in 2012 as part of a capital increase and through a secondary transaction in the Polygone holding. Between 2013 and 2021, Sofina acquired shares through primary and secondary transactions in GL events and Polygone in order to support the group’s international expansion and to strengthen its position.
Sofina is represented by a director in Polygone, and two directors in GL events (member of the audit committee and member of the compensation and nomination committee).