ITA Group Continues Global Expansion, Announces Presence in Australia & New Zealand

Engagement solutions leader acquires Sydney-based Performance Incentives

Brent Vander Waal, president and chief executive officer, ITA Group, welcomes Mari Kauppinen, managing director, ANZ – ITA Group, to the global organization serving brands seeking to engage key audiences through events, recognition, incentives and loyalty programs. (Photo: Business Wire)

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa & SYDNEY, Australia–(BUSINESS WIRE)–ITA Group, a global leader in engagement solutions, makes another significant move with the establishment of ITA Group’s Australia office through the acquisition of Sydney-based Performance Incentives. This strategic expansion supports ITA Group’s global growth goals and offers clients culturally relevant and locally managed engagement solutions that inspire and motivate employees, channel partners and customers in Australia and New Zealand.

Since 2022, ITA Group global expansions have resulted in a 556% increase in the number of participants served. ITA Group’s new and existing clients will experience the immediate benefits from the Australia expansion.Post this

The formation of ITA Group’s Australia office, headquartered in Sydney, builds on its existing client base to deliver events, incentives, recognition, loyalty, research and learning solutions to Australia and New Zealand. The move also benefits current ITA Group customers with a local presence.

“When looking to grow, culture is at the top of our list, and we are proud to add a culturally aligned organization like Performance Incentives to the ITA Group community of companies,” said Brent Vander Waal, president and chief executive officer, ITA Group. “Over the past seven years, ITA Group has expanded our services globally through acquisition and partnership to deliver solutions and services in geographies that allow our clients and their customers to grow. We will continue our sustainable growth and are excited to inspire engagement in Australia and New Zealand.”

Strengthened global perspective on engagement programs with informed cultural insights and sensitivity, ensuring tailored solutions that resonate with the local audience
In-region, local program management throughout Australia and New Zealand
Enhanced global technology, communications and award capabilities
Access to a strong network of Australian support partners

Performance Incentives, founded in 2001, has solidified its position in the market with a diverse portfolio of channel sales incentive and incentive travel solutions, serving clients in the automotive, financial services and heavy equipment industries. The integration of Performance Incentives into ITA Group brings together the expertise and experience of both entities, further strengthening ITA Group’s position in the region.

Mari Kauppinen leads ITA Group in Australia, bringing 25+ years of award-winning B2B demand generation and category marketing expertise. An experienced presenter, nonprofit board member and mentor, she will be a panel speaker at the B2B Marketing Leaders Forum APAC 2024 in Sydney May 8-9.

“I am honored to lead the organization and to provide great opportunities for ITA Group and Performance Incentives’ clients,” said Mari Kauppinen, Managing Director, ANZ – ITA Group. “By leveraging the expertise of our local team and collaborating with our global design experts, we can deliver the most creative and engaging solutions for our clients and their employees, channel partners, and customers.”

According to Vander Waal, “This is a natural evolution in our strategy, and the next step on our path to continued growth. Any decision that helps us serve our clients better and positively impacts our team is a win.”

Hear more from Mari Kauppinen and Michael Faulkner about this acquisition and the benefits clients can expect.

About ITA Group

ITA Group helps leading brands around the world take action with confidence, resulting in increased sales, purchases, retention, referrals and alignment. Through events, incentives, recognition, loyalty, research and learning, ITA Group is transforming how business feels for employees, channel partners and customers, while helping brands create connections, motivate audiences and drive purposeful change. Find out more at www.itagroup.com/au.