AEG Facilities and SMG Complete Merger to Become ASM Global

October 1, 2019

Venue management companies AEG Facilities and SMG have completed their merger to create ASM Global, a new, stand-alone global facility management and venue services company that now operates more than 300 arenas, stadiums, convention centers and performing arts centers across five continents.

The completion of this transaction comes eight months after the companies announced the proposed merger. Onex, of which SMG is a portfolio company, and AEG’s subsidiary are now equal co-owners of ASM, according to ASM officials.

Headquartered in Los Angeles, with key operations based in the Philadelphia suburb of West Conshohocken, ASM has corporate offices in London and Manchester, England; Brisbane, Australia; and Sao Paulo.

Bob Newman, former president of AEG Facilities, has taken the helm as ASM’s president and CEO. Prior to joining AEG Facilities, Newman spent more than 20 years at SMG, last serving as a regional vice president for the company.

“This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our industry and one that will establish a new standard of excellence in managing live experiences,” Newman said.

He added, “Bringing together the combined global expertise of each company with the best content and cutting-edge technologies, we will be able to realize the full potential of the world’s greatest spaces, places and events, create amazing experiences for guests, offer exciting new opportunities to employees and deliver the highest value for all stakeholders.”

Newman said ASM’s deep bench of talent and shared resources will enable the new company to accelerate innovation and capitalize on growing market opportunities.

Meanwhile, Wes Westley, former CEO and president of SMG, has joined ASM’s board of directors and will focus his efforts on key strategic growth initiatives and ensuring a seamless integration of the two companies.

“I am very proud to have had the opportunity to lead such an incredible organization as SMG,” Westley said. “We have a long history of working closely with our public and private partners and are confident in our ability to continue to meet and exceed their expectations.”

He added, “ASM’s focus moving forward will be on providing added value and best-in-class services to its customers. We are well-prepared for a seamless integration process.”

With the completion of this merger, the new ASM Global now boasts 61,000 employees around the globe.

AEG will retain ownership of its real estate holdings outside of this venture, including its entertainment districts and owned venues in Los Angeles; London; Berlin and Hamburg, Germany, as well as its extensive development, sports, music and sponsorship divisions.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.