CMP Information, owners of International Confex and Conference Blue & Green, has bought The National Venue Show.

Lindsay Cook, managing director, Specialist Markets Division CMPi said: §This exciting new acquisition is a tremendous complement to International Confex, the leading annual exhibition for UK event organisers which is already owned and managed by CMPi. The National Venue Show is a great asset and further highlights our investment plans in this market."

Stephen Richards, managing director, National Venue Show said: “I am delighted that CMPi's resources will be brought to bear on the National Venue Show, the link with Confex is a natural. I will be working hard with the new owners to make sure that all the event "values", built up over our development period, are built upon and enhanced.”

“Undoubtedly our key strength has been to deliver buyers who are not attending the London events so both events in tandem provide great market coverage. With regard to future developments, CMPi are ideally placed to fully realise the potential at the NEC and exhibitors should look forward to even more successful events in the future.”

Duncan Reid, event director for International Confex, who will take on direct responsibility for managing and integrating The National Venue Show alongside his current responsibilities for Confex, said:

“The purchase of The National Venue Show further enhances CMPi's offering to UK event buyers. CMPi now owns the two strongest exhibitions in the UK events industry calendar and the NVS's Birmingham location further strengthens our proposition in the Midlands and the North.”

“The September timing of the show also complements Confex' February position and the integrated approach will ensure that the portfolio will become the leading information provider for UK meetings & event buyers.”

The National Venue Show will be held at The NEC, Birmingham on 19th - 21st September 2006.