kathy@isettable.com
www.isettable.com
The iSETT Table Ring is a decorative accessory for a table
setting to enhance the dining experience. It is a metal ring
that frames the dinner plate. The measurement of the ring
is 14 inches in diameter, and it is placed around the dinner
plate as a full ring. Alternatively, just a half ring can be used
to frame the plate. iSETT is a fresh, fun way to set a table
with style, and includes creative step-by-step instructions on
placement of dishes, flatware, glasses, napkins, decorations
and ideas on how to use the iSETT Table Ring for any entertaining occasion.
GLM to be Acquired by Providence Equity Partners
New York International Gift Fair and Gourmet Housewares Show producer George Little Management
(GLM) and Providence Equity Partners (Providence) announced that GLM and affiliates of Providence have
signed a definitive merger agreement under which affiliates of Providence will acquire GLM from Daily Mail
and General Trust plc (LSE: DMGT.L) for approximately $173 million in cash.
GLM creates face-to-face and online buying, selling and networking platforms for designers, product
developers, manufacturers, reps, retailers and operators through trade show and event production, online
community development and association management. GLM currently produces 15 trade shows, serving
industries as diverse as giftware, home furnishings, social stationery, home textiles, tabletop, gourmet
housewares, contemporary furniture, personal care, art & design, antique jewelry, beach, board sports,
fashion and hospitality. Annually, these events showcase approximately 11,000 exhibitors in 1. 8 million
net square feet of exhibit space, and attract approximately 150,000 attendees.
Providence will purchase GLM through a new holding company led by Charles G. McCurdy, who most
recently served as chief executive officer of Canon Communications, a leading producer of trade shows,
publications, and digital and data services. In five years under McCurdy’s management, Canon doubled
in size, expanding its trade shows into 10 countries and developing a significant suite of digital and
data services.
“GLM has a proven track record in exceeding the expectations of exhibitors and attendees with high-quality, customer-focused events,” stated Michael J. Dominguez, a managing director at Providence. “We
believe there are significant opportunities to grow GLM’s trade show brands in the U.S. and internationally
both organically and through acquisition, as well as to develop exciting new digital and data services. The
company already has a talented senior management team. This will be further strengthened with additional
direction from Charlie, who has more than 30 years of experience in managing and investing in niche
media, information and education companies.”
McCurdy said, “I’m thrilled to partner with Providence as it acquires this top tier, world-class company.
GLM’s presence in the growing business-to-retailer space has few rivals in the international trade show
industry. With the help of Providence and the dedicated GLM team, we will seek to take GLM to the next
level while identifying additional opportunities to expand our platform in the dynamic trade show space.”
Alan E. Steel, president of GLM, commented, “This is a compelling transaction that will allow GLM to
benefit from the additional resources and expertise provided by Providence as we seek to further expand
our product offerings and accelerate growth. We look forward to working with Charlie and Providence in
the future.”
The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, is expected
to close by the end of September 2011.
The Jordan, Edmiston Group, Inc. acted as financial advisor to Daily Mail and General Trust plc in connection with the transaction. Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP served as legal counsel to Providence in connection
with the transaction.
