Event Software Giants Ungerboeck and EventBooking Merge

July 2, 2021
Event Software Giants Ungerboeck and EventBooking Merge

Staff of Ungerboeck and EventBooking recently broke bread together in St. Louis. Think of it as a “getting to know you” event with the specific purpose of smoothly combining the forces of two of the event industry’s leading software companies.

The merger, announced in May, pools the resources of leading technologies for event and venue management. It is part of a growing trend of consolidation as companies in all sectors seek a path forward in a post-pandemic world and recovering economy.

In this case, said Ungerboeck President and CEO Manish Chandak, the real winners will be the organizers and planners using the joint company’s tools. 

“Deals like this are needed to disrupt a highly fragmented market where it seems like everyone is providing a very similar service and no one is breaking out with true innovation that makes it seamless for organizers to put on high-quality events,” said Chandak. “This tells us how investors think about the long term potential of in-person gathering.”

Indeed, there is a third piece to this puzzle that made the merger possible. Cove Hill Partners made a sizable investment in Ungerboeck, giving it the vote of confidence to unite the companies. Chandak will be president and CEO; Steve Mackenzie of EventBooking will serve as executive vice president.

“This gives Ungerboeck a tremendous scale so that we learn from a breadth of customers and our innovation investments go further,” noted Chandak, adding that the focus will squarely be on in-person gatherings with hybrid being a secondary concern.

Ironically, the slowdown made such a large move possible, as pre-pandemic, Ungerboeck was too busy assisting clients to make a transformational move, Chandak explained.

“The fact that it was a bit slow for us gave us some time to get ourselves organized, get investment and merge with another amazing events company,” he said.

Reaction to the news has been positive.

"IAVM is delighted with the news of this merger,” said Brad Mayne, CEO of International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM). “Not only have Ungerboeck and EventBooking been long-standing IAVM members, but they have also contributed immensely to areas such as our education and diversity initiatives that make the lives of industry professionals better. I'm looking forward to the innovation and service levels that this merger will bring to our members."

The meeting in St. Louis is the first step in a journey of bringing together two successful organizations, which is not always an easy task.

“Then there is the hard work of creating the strategy that maximizes the assets of both companies while sunsetting things we don’t need,” Chandak said. “Both teams are very excited. Ask me in six months how we did.”

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE and engage with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!

 

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.