Futurebuild Events, which has been set up by Ecobuild brand director, Martin Hurn, made the acquisition with the intention of taking the event back to its roots and making it more entrepreneurial under independent ownership.
Martin, who has run Ecobuild with UBM for the past five years, will continue to lead the event with the existing Ecobuild project team.
Martin said: “Taking the show independent is an important part of its evolution. The acquisition is an exciting opportunity to ensure the event truly has the flexibility to work as closely as possible with industry and focus on the products, trends and issues that really matter in the UK and to markets around the globe.
“Our vision for Ecobuild in 2017 and beyond is to take the show back to its roots, putting the spotlight on true innovation and much needed debate around fundamental industry issues. Ecobuild will continue to be the forum for the industry to come together to shape the ongoing sustainability debate and share the latest innovations and thinking.
“The future success will be all about the quality of experience and value gained from the event, measured by the brands and products showcased, the cutting-edge content and innovations, networking and debate that we will deliver for the industry.”
UBM agreed to the sale of Ecobuild following a review of its assets and partnerships.
Nina Wright, who led UBM Built Environment, said: “The decision to sell Ecobuild was taken as part of a portfolio review.
“The 2017 show will run exactly as planned, offering the same investment in themes, features and format and the same exhibitors, speakers and contributing partners.
“Moving forward, the renewed vision and drive made possible by the acquisition will ensure the event continues to be seen as the industry platform for driving discussion and debate on the major issues shaping the built environment.”