Reed Exhibitions Australia have announced it has acquired specialist design trade exhibition company Life Instyle and its accompanying events Kids Instyle and First Instyle.

Life Instyle, founded by Thibaud and Claire Cau-Cecile, will now be managed by a dedicated team at Reed Exhibitions, lead by the recently recruited exhibition manager Tracy Harris.

“Reed Exhibitions looks forward to combining the traditions and values of the Life Instyle events with Reed Exhibitions’ knowledge and expertise in developing outstanding trade fairs,” said Reed Exhibitions Australia managing director Debbie Evans.

“This acquisition is part of Reed Exhibitions’ strategy of growth through acquiring complementary businesses to expand its portfolio, along with organic growth of existing offerings.

“Life Instyle is a natural fit for Reed Exhibitions. It offers niche high-value events to design-focused businesses, and Reed will continue to meet the needs and expectations of loyal Life Instyle exhibitors and buyers.”

Evans said she does not imagine there will be any significant changes to Life Instyle and says Reed Exhibitions will maintain the ethos that has made the events so popular, though with Reed Gift Fairs’ Sydney February and Melbourne August fairs coinciding with Life Instyle, Reed Exhibitions will explore ways to maximise the potential for buyers of high-end products to attend both fairs.

Life Instyle offers two annual events, each including its three associated brands: Life Instyle, a high-end showcase of the most exclusive brands in homewares and lifestyle products; First Instyle, a design space showcasing new and emerging design professionals in a feature installation at the Life Instyle trade event; and Kids Instyle, which targets top end kids and babies boutiques looking for quality fashion, homewares and accessories.