In recent years, the live entertainment sector has become an increasingly attractive area for private equity investment. The year 2024 marked a significant boom with high-profile events such as Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour generating over $2 billion in revenue and major sporting events like soccer’s European Championships drawing global attention. Industry experts highlight that the out-of-home experience is gaining traction among institutional investors due to its strong potential for return on investment. This interest stems from the limited availability of key venues and the opportunity for global expansion within the sector.

A Year of Strategic Acquisitions in Live Entertainment

During the past year, numerous acquisitions have reshaped the landscape of live entertainment. In early 2025, ATG Entertainment, supported by Providence Equity Partners, expanded into Spain through the acquisition of Som Produce, a leading producer and distributor of Spanish-language theater productions. Another notable deal involved CES Power, backed by Allied Industrial Partners, acquiring Base Craft, a provider of specialized services for the motion picture industry. Meanwhile, CVC Capital Partners joined KKR in supporting Superstruct, a prominent live entertainment group operating music festivals across Europe and Australia.

Other significant transactions include TKO's acquisition of IMG Live Events from Endeavour Group Holdings for $3.25 billion, Shamrock Capital's investment in Nth Degree, and Investindustrial's purchase of RCF Group, a manufacturer of professional loudspeakers. Additionally, Goldman Sachs acquired TAIT, a Pennsylvania-based company providing advanced engineering solutions for live entertainment. Ardian exited a majority stake in Audiotonix to PAI Partners, while Celebrity Coaches, backed by Allied Industrial Partners, acquired Moonstruck Leasing. Finally, CES Power further strengthened its portfolio by purchasing ABird/Apex, enhancing its presence in the UK and Ireland.

These developments underscore the growing importance of private equity in shaping the future of live entertainment, leveraging strategic investments to consolidate and expand operations globally.

From a journalist's perspective, it is fascinating to observe how private equity firms are transforming the live entertainment industry. Their focus on scaling businesses and entering new markets highlights a forward-thinking approach that could redefine the sector. For readers, this trend suggests an exciting future where innovation and investment converge to create unforgettable experiences for audiences worldwide.