Axel Springer Acquires Bisnow to Expand US Digital Media Empire
German media group Axel Springer has purchased Bisnow, a global commercial real estate news and events company. The deal expands Axel Springer's footprint in the US and adds to its digital media portfolio. Bisnow, founded in 2005, operates across 47 markets with news, live events, and B2B solutions. The acquisition follows years of steady growth under its previous owner, The Wicks Group, a New York-based private equity firm. Over the past five years, Bisnow has more than doubled its event output. In 2021, it hosted around 200 events, but by 2025, that number had risen to over 400. The company also expanded geographically, growing from 15 core US markets to 25, including new locations in Canada, Europe, and Asia. Gregg Mayer, Bisnow's CEO, highlighted the benefits of joining Axel Springer. He noted that the acquisition would accelerate growth and open up new investment opportunities. Claudius Senst, COO and Executive Board member of Axel Springer, praised Mayer's leadership and the company's strong market position. The deal places Bisnow under Brew Media Group, a newly formed division led by Robert Dippell, who remains CEO of Morning Brew. Both Bisnow and Morning Brew will continue to operate independently. Brew Media Group also plans to seek further acquisitions in the US to widen its media offerings. The acquisition strengthens Axel Springer's presence in the US digital media sector. Bisnow will retain its operational independence while gaining access to new resources. Brew Media Group's expansion strategy suggests more deals could follow in the near future.
