WASHINGTON, DC — Interel has stepped up its US expansion by acquiring AMG, a DC-based public affairs firm that specialises in association management and government affairs for nonprofits.

The deal brings AMG's 90-strong staff into Interel, resulting in combined revenues of  €25 million (US$27m) and a headcount of more than 200. J. Bruce Wardle will continue in his role as AMG CEO, after joining the firm in 1993 and then acquiring it in 1999.

"We already work with a number of the world’s leading associations and societies as well as many of the world’s best known corporate brands but the acquisition of AMG is a further significant step in the successful expansion of Interel as a global player," said Interel CEO Frederik Lofthagen. "Besides our historic European basis, AMG gives us a strong presence in the USA, the most advanced and innovative market in our industry."

Founded in Brussels in 1983, Interel's global expansion has included the major European markets, along with the US, India and China, tallying offices and partners in 60 countries.

"Joining forces with Interel is more than just a geographic or business expansion, it represents a blending of aligned cultures and shared outlooks on the global market," said Wardle. "It will be exciting to see the affirmative impact this union will have on our clients and professionals, both presently and in the future."