The sale will see The Conference Company’s founder and managing director, Jan Tonkin, transition out of the combined company over six months, with Uno Loco’s group head of commercial, Thea Farrant Adam, to become CEO of The Conference Company from April 1.
Tonkin, who founded The Conference Company in 1990, will remain in an advisory role beyond the six-month transition period.
Stephen Noble will remain as The Conference Company’s manager of Asia Pacific, while James Brehaut will continue as the organisation’s general manager.
On LinkedIn, Tonkin described the process of finding a buyer for The Conference Company as “careful, painstaking and interesting”.
“We took care to find an organisation that shared our values and determination to deliver the best every day,” she wrote.
“In Uno Loco Group I believe we have found just the right fit on all counts.”
Uno Loco Group, comprised of event agency Uno Loco and creative agency Hula, has been around since 1996 and is both a carbon zero company and a B Corp.
“We’ve worked alongside The Conference Company for many years, and have a huge amount of respect and admiration for Jan and her team and the business they have grown,” said Uno Loco CEO Blair Glubb.
“Our vision is for growth in New Zealand, Australia and globally and this acquisition backs our belief that bringing people together through events and experiences is a growth industry.
“Our focus is to drive the ongoing success of The Conference Company alongside the TCC team. We’re also delighted to be working with Jan over the next six months to ensure a successful transition, and to be able to access her expertise on an advisory basis after that.”
Uno Loco and The Conference Company are both members of Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), who applauded the takeover.
“This is an incredibly exciting time for both organisations,” said BEIA’s chief executive, Lisa Hopkins.
“Jan Tonkin is synonymous with the term Professional Conference Organiser (PCO), and many in our industry owe their knowledge and passion to her leadership and influence.
““There is no doubt that Jan has created an incredible legacy. She has been a true pioneer of our sector, playing a pivotal role in its growth.
“With today’s world-class infrastructure supporting business events, Jan’s influence has been instrumental in shaping the industry’s success. BEIA celebrates this new chapter for both organisations.”
