ASM Global appointed to manage London’s Olympia

Leading international venue management company ASM Global, has been appointed to run operations at Olympia London, the premier exhibition centre in central London and one of Europe’s most historic venues.

The announcement is a further step forward in the redevelopment of Olympia London and will see ASM Global take management responsibility for the exhibitions and events business.

The move expands ASM’s footprint in Europe with an iconic London venue and brings global knowledge-sharing to enable Olympia London to compete harder in international markets.

ASM Global and Olympia London’s management teams have already been working collectively on a venue enhancement plan for world-class conference and hospitality facilities, with further details to follow in due course.

The senior management team and all Olympia London staff will move to ASM Global under trade union regulations.

A cultural and architectural landmark since opening its doors in 1886, today Olympia London is one of the city’s busiest venues having, in recent years, attracted more than 1.6 million visitors and hosted over 200 events each year. The wider Olympia site is currently undergoing a US$1.7 billion redevelopment as a cultural district - a new destination for art, culture, education, entertainment, exhibitions, music, state-of-the-art offices and some of the best food and drink in town.

Commenting on the new partnership, ASM Global President and Chief Executive, Ron Bension stated “we are proud to partner with Olympia London, Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance International on this amazing and historic venue, positioning it at the forefront of the industry for the next 100 years.

“Our commitment to guest and partner satisfaction aligns with the reputation of Olympia London and we look forward to continuing to serve existing and new clients’ event schedules at Olympia London and developing the programme with other signature events.”

Experienced in working with major cultural and entertainment districts and venues, including LA Live in Los Angeles, Darling Harbour in Sydney, OVO Arena Wembley in London and AO Arena Manchester, ASM Global will leverage its worldwide relationships in content, programming, planning, technology, sustainability and guest safety to further enhance the visitor experience at Olympia London.

Commenting on the new contract, ASM Global APAC Chairman Harvey Lister commented “Olympia, which is one of the busiest venues in London, is an important and high profile addition to the 325+ venues we operate globally.

“We are particularly proud at APAC because of the involvement of a number of our Australian executives, demonstrating the real strength of the global nature of the group.”

Lister said one of the most exciting factors surrounding this announcement is the proposed US$1.7 billion (£1.3 billion) investment redevelopment of Olympia.

Set to be completed in 2024, the investment will deliver a 4,400 capacity live music venue; a 1,575-seat performing arts theatre; a school for the creative arts; 9290 metre² of restaurants, bars and eateries; two globally renowned hotels; 51,000 metre² of offices and 2.5 acres of new public realm.

Having been part of the team who appointed ASM Global, Managing Director Nigel Nathan will now gradually transition to a new role as Chairman over the coming months once ASM appoints a replacement Managing Director to lead the day-to-day running of the Olympia London business.

Image: Olympia London.