CloserStill Media acquires leading US cyber security event

CloserStill Media has expanded its technology portfolio with the takeover of  a leading cyber security event in the US.

The acquisition of Billington Cybersecurity comes amid a period of growth in presence for the organizer across the region.

That’s your top story. Here are the other headlines in your Week in Events news roundup:

• RX’s Cannes Yachting Festival sees record edition
• Emerald joins Women in Exhibitions International’s network

Keep reading for your full news stories.

CloserStill moves into the cyber security sector with new acquisition

CloserStill Media has acquired the North American event organizer Billington CyberSecurity.

The announcement comes after the sixteenth edition of their annual summit – which saw record-breaking numbers across attendees, speakers and sponsors.

Billington CyberSecurity has been establishing itself as a US market leader of cyber security events over the course of 16 years.

Tom Billington, CEO of Billington CyberSecurity, said: “CloserStill grasps the importance of our mission, shares our entrepreneurial passion for events and believes that world class cyber education serves the national security interests of our country and allies.”

This marks the latest of several acquisitions CloserStill has made this year across digital health, HR, AI and other sectors.

The organizer sees this as a significant step in growing its presence in North America.

It also broadens their technology portfolio and increases the group’s expertise in the cyber security sector.

Yancy Weinrich, president of North America at CloserStill Media, added: “This acquisition marks a significant step in our growth journey.

“We’re proud to be the new stewards of these market-leading and mission-driven events and look forward to building on the incredible foundation Tom and his team have created.”

RX’s Cannes Yachting Festival 2025 celebrates record edition

The Cannes Yachting Festival has reported record-breaking numbers from its 2025 edition of the event.

Attendee numbers grew by 1.8% compared to last year, while the number of exhibitors rose by 5.8%.

The figure for world premieres saw the most notable increase at 147 – a boost of more than 22% compared to 2024.

Sylvie Ernoult, director of the Cannes Yachting Festival, said: “This 2025 edition will remain one of the most ambitious and accomplished.

“We had the pleasure of bringing together the best players in the world of sailing in an exceptional setting and highlighting the major transformations shaping the sector.”

The RX-owned event sees the success of the most recent edition as reaffirmation of their position as the largest on-water boat show in Europe.

Sylvie also announced she will be stepping down as director after the festival’s conclusion.

Current deputy director Constance Brément will take over management of the event going forward.

Emerald joins Women in Exhibitions International’s network

Emerald has joined the growing Women in Exhibitions International network.

The organizer sees this partnership as cementing its ongoing dedication to creating gender equity and inclusivity across the industry.

They believe reinforcing this commitment is vital during a time of significant global expansion for the event organizer.

Ren Akinci, EVP at Emerald, said: “With half of our senior leadership comprised of women, we recognize the important role women play in shaping our industry and value the opportunity to collaborate with peers across the globe to strengthen leadership, innovation and the future of exhibitions.”

Emerald joins other significant event industry names such as Informa, RX and Tembo.

Women in Exhibition believes the partnership will significantly increase their community’s global reach.

Oana Cipca, president of Women in Exhibitions International, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Emerald into the Women in Exhibitions community.

“Together, we continue to build a stronger, more equitable future where every voice is heard, and every leader has a place.”

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