Canadian loyalty management company Groupe Aeroplan Inc. announced an agreement to purchase Carlson Marketing for $173 million,

subject to government review in the United States and Canada and expected to close in December. Carlson Marketing in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East provides loyalty marketing and engagement and events management services for corporations. Executives said the companies would continue to operate independently with no staff reductions or relocations at Carlson. Carlson Companies president and CEO Hubert Joly said the deal "frees up resources for Carlson that the company can deploy to accelerate the growth of its hotel, restaurant and travel businesses at a time when significant opportunities exist in these markets."