T&F Informa bought the world's largest conference and training company for cash using debt and funds from a 311m share issue.
It said that the acquisition would immediately strengthen its foothold in the North American market.
IIR encompasses 45 businesses involved in training, conferences, seminars, e-Learning, blended solutions, exhibitions, consulting and mentoring. It made an operating profit of 48m on sales of 313m last year.
The deal makes IIR founder 62-year-old Lord Laidlaw of Rothiemay the richest Scottish-born entrepreneur, overtaking retail magnate Tom Hunter.
He is now planning to devote his time to charity projects aimed at helping Scottish children from poor backgrounds.
Story by Josh Brooks
Print show organiser IIR bought by T&F Informa
Exhibition organiser IIR, the owner of Digital Print World, Newstec, Flexo and Northprint and the organiser of Ipex, has been sold to its rival T&F Informa for 768m.
