Mecklermedia buys One Inc.
Mecklermedia says it bought One Inc., which organizes the ISPCON trade shows and Boardwatch Magazine, in a cash and stock deal worth $29.5 million.
The buyout includes the Ispcon.com and Boardwatch.com Web sites as well. The buyout marks further consolidation in the Web publishing business.
"The properties we are acquiring are the leading trade show, print, and Web site resources for ISP professional and related personnel," Mecklermedia chief executive Alan Meckler said in a statement.
ISPCON is held twice per year in the United States. Boardwatch is a profitable monthly magazine with a paid circulation of about 25,000. Jack Rickard, president of the acquired companies, will continue as a columnist and as an adviser for ISPCON trade shows, according to Mecklermedia.
"Overseas we will add ISPCON shows to our portfolio beginning with an Australian event in August 1998 and a U.K. event in October 1998," Meckler said. "Also, we will combine the acquired Web site with our ISP position on Internet.com."
Mecklermedia stock closed Friday at 20-2/8, down 1/2.