Freeths Advises on Sale of Iconic Business Design Centre in London

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Freeths has advised BDCG Holdings Limited on the sale of the Business Design Centre in London to Excel, a subsidiary of ADNEC Group. The BDC is a prominent venue hosting numerous events each year and includes the Hilton Hotel on its estate. The acquisition positions ADNEC for growth within London’s event market, conducted by a diverse Freeths team.

Freeths, a national law firm, has successfully advised the shareholders of BDCG Holdings Limited on the sale of the Business Design Centre (BDC) in London to London International Exhibition Centre Holdings plc (Excel). The BDC is renowned as one of London’s premier conference and exhibition venues, comprising a Grade II listed property on a 4.5-acre estate. It hosts over 130 major events annually, attracting more than 900,000 visitors, including prestigious fairs like the London Art Fair. Additionally, the estate includes the freehold to the Hilton Hotel in Islington.

Excel, part of the ADNEC Group based in Abu Dhabi, is expanding its venue portfolio through this acquisition, underscoring its commitment to London’s event industry. Freeths deployed a multi-disciplinary team across various practices—Corporate, Tax, Real Estate, Trusts, and Employment—to facilitate this significant transaction. Robert Chidley, leading the corporate team, expressed satisfaction at the successful support provided to the sellers, while seller Joseph Mullee praised Freeths for their professionalism throughout the process.

The article discusses the sale of the Business Design Centre in London, a notable venue in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) sector, pivotal for event hosting and tourism. The transaction highlights the significance of the BDC and its historical importance as a Grade II listed building. This acquisition by Excel, a subsidiary of the ADNEC Group, signifies a strategic move to enhance their portfolio and foster growth in London’s business tourism.

The article summarises Freeths’ successful navigation of the sale of the Business Design Centre to Excel, showcasing the importance of this venue in London’s event landscape. The multi-disciplinary team from Freeths played a crucial role, highlighting their expertise in facilitating significant corporate transactions. Ultimately, this acquisition represents a key milestone for the ADNEC Group’s expansion in the UK.

Original Source: www.freeths.co.uk