Personify Acquires Events Management and Optimization Platform a2z, Inc.

November 29, 2018

In a significant mergers and acquisitions deal on the supplier side of the trade show industry, Personify, a provider of technology solutions for associations and non-profit organizations, has acquired a2z, Inc., an award-winning events management and optimization platform for event planners and show organizers.

The acquisition provides Personify and a2z clients with an enhanced constituent experience, improved productivity in back office processes and increased connectivity with their members, donors and event attendees, according to company officials.

“I am delighted to have a2z join the Personify family and provide our clients with a more integrated experience,” said Eric Thurston, president and CEO of Personify.

He added, “The combination of Personify and a2z events provides an unrivaled set of solutions for delivering value across channels—making every interaction matter.”

To excel in today’s crowded marketplace, constituent experiences must be memorable and rewarding across every interaction, whether at in-person events, online or mobile.

a2z is a leading event management platform that enables organizations to create lasting relationships and grow revenue while delivering compelling experiences across channels.

With more than 400 customers, including many existing Personify clients, a2z shares Personify’s commitment to a superior client experience with high retention rates and impressive satisfaction rankings.

“Personify is the long-standing leader in technology solutions,” said Rajiv Jain, CEO, a2z. “As a part of Personify, we see an extraordinary opportunity to further accelerate our momentum and deliver combined value to organizations around the world.”

The acquisition of a2z demonstrates Personify’s commitment to continue its investment in market-leading, innovative solutions and building a portfolio based on client needs. Event and show organizers everywhere will benefit from award-winning event management technology that is tightly integrated with the Personify platform to provide a holistic view of constituents and drive actionable insights.

With the acquisition now closed, Jain will continue to lead the a2z team as part of the Personify Events business, reporting to Eric Thurston.

Association technology leaders, show organizers and team members can experience the new software Dec. 4-5 at the Personify booth #247 during the 2018 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Technology Meeting and Expo in National Harbor, Maryland and at the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) show for shows, Expo! Expo!, on Dec.  11-13 in New Orleans.

Vista Point Advisors, a San Francisco-based boutique investment bank, acted as the exclusive financial advisor to a2z, Inc.

 

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Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact