Encore has acquired FIRST, a global event marketing and brand experience agency, in a move that expands Encore’s in-venue capabilities and strengthens its worldwide event services footprint. The deal brings together two industry leaders known for sophisticated production, embedded event teams, and large-scale enterprise event programs.
FIRST brings nearly 15 years of embedded delivery expertise and a 30-year legacy in corporate events, managing dedicated teams that support more than 15,000 events each year. With offices in New York, London, and Singapore, FIRST combines global reach with local execution across technology, financial services, and professional services.
Encore CEO Ben Erwin said the acquisition enhances the company’s ability to support customers wherever events take place — on-site, off-site, or across corporate campuses. He highlighted FIRST’s embedded model, deep enterprise relationships, and senior event talent as a strong complement to Encore’s global production network.
FIRST CEO Maureen Ryan Fable said joining Encore allows the team to bring its embedded solutions and full-service agency model to a larger customer base. She noted that FIRST’s ability to integrate deeply into client cultures ensures brand-authentic experiences, while Encore’s global infrastructure enables even more ambitious event programs.
The combined organization will serve customers across North America, EMEA, and APAC with expanded production, technology, and enterprise campus-based event capabilities.
KEY QUOTES:
“The FIRST embedded corporate campus team model and strong customer relationships across technology, financial and professional services are a complement to Encore’s global event production capabilities. Together… we’ll deliver even more value to customers — on-site, off-site, and anywhere events are held.”
Ben Erwin, President & CEO, Encore
“Our team’s ability to integrate seamlessly into a customer’s culture ensures every event feels authentic to each organization’s brand. Combined with Encore’s global reach and resources, we are poised to continue delivering exceptional experiences… to make sure their visions shine.”
Maureen Ryan Fable, CEO, FIRST
