Earlier this year, entertainment giant Paramount hired a bank to explore selling VidCon. In 2010, YouTubers John and Hank Green founded the much-loved creator convention. They then sold it to Paramount in 2018.
However, as of August 30, Paramount has sold the Anaheim-based event to a brand new owner: UK events company Informa.
Through its FanExpo HQ division, Informa is known for its pop culture-themed conventions. These include Toronto Comicon and Megacon.
While the company might be well-known for comic books and fandoms, this isn’t the only creator-friendly event Informa has acquired. In July, the company offered to acquire Ascential, which runs Cannes Lions, for £1.2 billion ($1.6 billion).
Why did Paramount sell VidCon to Informa?
As Paramount sells VidCon, it’s clear the convention has become increasingly subdued in recent years with decreasing attendee numbers. Creators reported that there were fewer brands present with activations and booths in 2024.
Expanding to multiple locations like Baltimore, Mexico City, and São Paulo failed to save it, as did its acquisition by Paramount (via Viacom) just six years ago. VidCon even ended up canceling its 2024 Baltimore event for unknown reasons.
“Our co-CEOs recently laid out a strategic plan for Paramount, including optimizing the company’s portfolio to position us for the future,” Paramount said in a statement to Business Insider.
“While VidCon is not core to our asset mix, we are pleased that it will continue to bring together digital creators, platform innovators, and fans under Informa’s ownership going forward.”
Further reading:
- What Is VidCon, And How Can Creators Get The Most Out Of It?
- VidSon Baltimore Suddenly Canceled
- VidCon Reportedly Up for Sale
- YouTube Returns To Headline VidCon
- They/Themming It Up at VidCon Anaheim 2024
- VidCon 2023: Elf Bars & Egos
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