ClearCourse acquires event technology provider Circdata as it moves into conference market

ClearCourse Partnership, a PE-backed partnership of UK software companies, has expanded into the exhibition and conference space with the acquisition of Circdata. ClearCourse’s acquisition of Circdata is the fifth acquisition since its foundation in October 2018. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed. Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Newbury, Circdata was originally a data management company and has since developed into an event technology business, providing software solutions to many of the world’s largest exhibition and conference organisers. Its proprietary software platform, Fusion, offers a suite of services connected on one technological platform that aide exhibitor management, visitor registration, ticket sales and subscriptions. Circdata employs over 50 people across its head office in the UK and R&D team in Poland. It is approved by BACS for the handling of direct debit payments and is a certified partner of both Microsoft and Apteco Faststats. Following the acquisition, Circdata will be led by former COO Chris Clipston (pictured), in his new role as Managing Director, with James Ormiston stepping down as MD and transitioning to an advisory role. ClearCourse says its strategy is to acquire innovative technology companies that provide software and services to a variety of membership organisations, including non-profits, trade associations, trade unions, sporting bodies and charities. In recent months the Partnership has acquired UK-based software and service providers: MillerTech, Silverbear, Clear Direct Debit and APT Solutions. Gerry Gualtieri, CEO of ClearCourse, commented: “We are delighted to announce the addition of Circdata to the Partnership. Our mission is to foster talent and innovation in the membership software space, supporting the growth and development of dynamic tech companies through the provision of both capital and operational resource. Circdata’s addition to the group will create several operational and market synergies with our existing companies.” James Ormiston, Founder of Circdata, added: “Becoming part of the ClearCourse Partnership was an attractive option for ensuring the continued development and growth of Circdata. With several new products and projects in its pipeline, we were looking for a partner that could provide both operational expertise and financial support. In ClearCourse we also found a community of like-minded businesses offering ample opportunity for collaboration and the realisation of synergies.”