GES’ Steve Moster, onPeak’s Michael Howe Discuss GES Acquisition of onPeak and Travel Planners

October 8, 2014

With Global Experience Specialists acquisition of two housing services companies – onPeak and Travel Planners - its clients now have an entire suite of services provided by one company.

The combined businesses will serve clients under the name onPeak, a GES Global Company (onPeak | GES).

GES President Steve Moster and Michael Howe, formerly president of onPeak and now executive vice president of onPeak | GES, took a few moments to talk with TSNN President Rachel Wimberly about the big news today and what it means for their clients and the industry overall.

TSNN: What made this an attractive opportunity for GES?

Moster: “The reason why we were interested is because it fit our desire to be a full-service provider for our clients. … The piece we were missing for live events was event housing, (and) this was a unique opportunity provided to acquire both onPeak and Travel Planners. We took advantage of that and brought them all together.”

TSNN: What makes this a good move for the overall industry?

Howe: “Both (housing) companies are housing leaders in the industry, and we both have superior offerings … now, we will make an even stronger combination. Clients will now have the latest and greatest in (housing services) technology and the backing of GES to support even (further growth) of that technology.”

TSNN: How did your clients react to the acquisition news?

Moster: “I reached out to a number of clients and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. These two companies combined with GES make a lot of sense to our clients.”

Howe: “Clients have been very excited by the news.”

TSNN: Why was this acquisition a good fit?

Howe: “(All three companies) embrace the similar cultures and outlooks. It’s actually going to be a very easy transition … we have the best interests of our clients at heart.”

Add new comment

Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.    Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.    Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.   The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.    MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.     MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.