AEG, CÁRDENAS TEAM FOR LATIN TOURING POWERHOUSE

AEG Presents has partnered with Chicago-based Latin live-event powerhouse Cárdenas Marketing Network in a deal combining the second- and third-largest concert companies in the world. Per a statement, the deal aims to "create elevated and expanded experiences for both artists and audiences globally, with each benefiting from this complementary strategic alliance."

In a letter to AEG staff, Chairman/CEO Jay Marciano stressed the Henry Cárdenas-founded CMN will continue to operate as its own brand and praised the team-up as an "extraordinary milestone that will change the trajectory of our company for years to come."

"This alliance provides us with the expertise and insights into the Latin market that has been a missing piece at our company and enables CMN to tap into our global infrastructure and expand its reach via our teams in Europe, Asia and Australia," he continued.

Launched in 2001, CMN has promoted tours for superstars such as J. Balvin, Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, Marc Anthony, Nicky Jam and Don Omar. The company's recent successes include Luis Miguel's 200-plus show global tour, one of the largest Latin outings ever of that scale. CMN is also active in the world of sports, having staged soccer matches at iconic venues such as New York's MetLife Stadium and Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

"I have known Jay Marciano for over 40 years and have deep respect for all his accomplishments and the tremendous business that he has built at AEG Presents," said Cárdenas (pictured). "Together we look forward to making an even greater impact on the explosive growth in the Latin market."