DMCs & PCOs

Congrex Group Acquires AKM Group
The Congrex Group strengthens its leadership role in the market by acquiring full ownership of AKM AG, Basel , Switzerland . In an unprecedented transaction in the Conference and Meetings industry, these two experienced veterans have now created a powerful entity in the association services industry.
“We are delighted about today’s agreement", said Diana Feo Corao, Chairman of Congrex Holding BV. “AKM is a premium brand in the Association Services Industry with an excellent reputation. AKM complements Congrex and will add substantial value to our overall business as well as new expertise with very experienced staff and efficient working methods. We are proud to be able to include them, as part of our growing Group of Companies.”
“AKM represents a milestone in Congrex development and has been a choice European company to be able to integrate in our Group”, said Donald M Hellstedt, Director of Congrex Holding BV and newly elected Chairman of AKM AG.
AKM has a strong portfolio of National and International Association clients and specializes since 25 years in organising and managing their numerous high profile events throughout Europe from offices in Switzerland and Germany .
Mr Heinz P. Lindenmann , founder and Managing Director of AKM and one of the former co-owners, who will stay on as a Board Member of AKM in a key role said: “We have enjoyed twenty five years of very successful business and have greatly benefited from our excellent, dedicated and loyal staff. We see this as a new beginning for AKM and we also see our staff being able to benefit from the great opportunities that Congrex brings”.
Mr Kurt , Managing Director of AKM and one of the former co-owners, who will also stay on as a Board Member of AKM added: “It is a very emotional moment for us, a bit sad and yet exciting. We hand over, what we have built over the years to very capable hands, and that we can be proud of”.
Congrex has been at the forefront of the acquisitions in the industry over the past number of years, selecting strategically important companies providing the Congrex Group with new markets, operational locations as well as added expertise.
"AKM was at the top of the list to broaden Congrex market presence in Europe with their important client portfolio and operational bases in Switzerland and Germany . In addition their renowned expertise in the Housing and Travel business brings leading edge know-how to the Congrex Group. We intend to operate the AKM Group in the same format as today and we have the objective to invest in the companies’ continued expansion” said Dr Layth Bunni , Congrex Group CEO.