American Express GBT Acquiring International M&E Company

American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) has signed an agreement to acquire Banks Sadler, an international event management agency headquartered in London, England. The company will operate as part of American Express Meetings & Events, a division of GBT.

The transaction is expected to be completed in Q3 2017.

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

“Banks Sadler is one of the most respected M&E brands,” says Jouaneh. “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. Over the last 35 years, the business and brand have established themselves among the most trusted in the marketplace. Under the leadership of Leigh Jagger, the company has expanded its service and portfolio to multiple marketplaces.

Jagger, the CEO of Banks Sadler, says that while the sale is a pivotal moment for the company, its 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 benefiting from American Express Meetings & Events’ supplier relationships, global scale and expertise of strategic meetings management programs (SMMPs).”

Steven Curts, American Express GBT’s chief strategy officer, says the acquisition is another important step in the evolution of the global business. “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.”