Asia

Vivaticket acquired by Middle East investment giant

Bahrain-based Investcorp has acquired Vivaticket, in a move designed to “accelerate growth” for the Italian ticketing software solutions firm.

The technology company, which provides ticket solutions for the leisure, culture and tradeshow industries – and counts FC Barcelona and AC Milan among its partners – will see its co-founders and management team remain involved in the business.

The transaction is expected to close by year-end, subject to customary closing conditions.

Daniel Lopez-Cruz, head of Investcorp’s European Private Equity group, said: “Vivaticket is a formidable customer-oriented software solutions provider with an impressive and entrepreneurial management team.

“As global demand for entertainment and experiential content continues to increase, Vivaticket is ideally positioned to capitalise on multiple growth opportunities that directly align with Investcorp’s investment expertise.

“We look forward to partnering with the Vivaticket team to support their international growth strategy, both organically and through add-on acquisitions to expand the Company’s geographic footprint and further strengthen its presence in existing markets.”

Vivaticket has more than 2,100 clients across 50 countries, including brands such as Walt Disney World, Musée du Louvre and FC Barcelona.

Most recently, the Bologna-based ticketing firm teamed up with Serie A football club AC Milan, as well as the country’s football federation.

The company employs 450 people and has established operations in 10 countries across Europe, the Mena region, Latin America and Asia Pacific.

Luca Montebugnoli, co-founder of Vivaticket, added: “Investcorp is a distinguished and highly professional partner that will be able, together with the existing management team, to further accelerate the growth of Vivaticket with the aim of competing amongst the top three players globally.

“Our company is committed to achieving global leadership by geography and by market, whilst respecting the ethical and professional principles that have always guided us. Technological innovation and the ability to attract talent will remain at the heart of what we do.”