Stevens & Bolton has advised Metropolis International, a fast growing media and technology group, on its acquisition of 11 former Emap magazine business-to-business brands and on the amendment of its term and revolving loan facilities with Lloyds.
The 11 brands acquired from Ascential plc include Drapers, Nursing Times, Local Government Chronicle, Construction News, New Civil Engineer, Ground Engineering, H&V News/RAC, Retail Jeweller, Materials Recycling World, Architects’ Journal, and The Architectural Review and its associated World Architecture Festival.
In addition to advising on the acquisition, Stevens & Bolton advised on Metropolis International’s acquisition finance, with Lloyds providing financing under its existing facilities with Metropolis.
Robert Marr, CEO of Metropolis, said: “I am delighted to announce the acquisition of these respected brands. The 11 brands represent some of the leading B2B brands in the UK. Metropolis recognizes that these brands are the leaders in their sectors: we look forward to working with the events, commercial, content and operational teams as they continue to deliver premium offerings for customers. They were at the heart of the Emap business, and I am confident they have a strong future within Metropolis. We look forward to working with the team and welcoming them to Metropolis.”
The Stevens & Bolton team was led by corporate partners Keith Syson and Nick Atkins and included Nassar Nassar (corporate), Jonathan Porteous (banking), Aslihan Ozbey (banking), Emer O’Kelly (commercial), Rosy Kidd (real estate), Caroline Wort (real estate) and Jamie Crawford (tax)
Nick Atkins