American Express Global Business Travel acquires Banks Sadler

American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) has inked an agreement to acquire Banks Sadler, an international event management agency headquartered in London, and bring it under the American Express Meetings & Events division.

The transaction is expected to be completed in 3Q2017.

Issa Jouaneh, senior vice president and general manager of American Express Meetings & Events, said the acquisition is strategic for his organisation and a positive development for Banks Sadler and its customers.

Jouaneh said: “Banks Sadler is one of the most respected M&E brands. It brings an extensive range of services and solutions with an independent agency mindset that we will maintain and grow. Combined with American Express Meetings & Events leading capabilities and global footprint, our clients will benefit from an expanded value proposition.”

Banks Sadler was founded in 1982 in London and has offices in York, Windsor, Paris, Dusseldorf and New York. It has approximately 250 employees. Under the leadership of Leigh Jagger, the company has expanded its service and portfolio to multiple marketplaces.

Jagger said: “Though customers will not notice any change, the business is now supported by one of the largest travel and meetings management companies in the world. We will, therefore, continue to offer best-in-class, event planning and management while benefitting from American Express Meetings & Events’ supplier relationships, global scale and expertise of strategic meetings management programmes.”

Steven Curts, American Express GBT’s chief strategy officer, said: “In transient business travel and meetings and events, our focus is always on improving customer experience, product offering and global footprint through strategic acquisitions, partnerships and organic growth. The purchase of Banks Sadler is another important step on our strategic journey.”

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