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The Catalyst Group, which was set up to provide funding and support for start-up shows (Event, October), has made its first investment. The company has given an undisclosed sum to organ- iser Grand Union Events (GUE) to create a series of roadshow-style events for the fashion industry. They will launch later in the year and run on consecutive days in major towns and cities including London and Glasgow. GUE also plans to run the events on the Continent and involve other sectors. The Catalyst Group was launched by Mack Brooks chairman Stephen Brooks and former Advanstar UK managing director Neil Jones. “It’s been sad to see fashion shows diminish or disappear over the years but it’s a delight to be involved in the sector again,” said Brooks. GUE director Scott Gray said: “Our model of moving an event around and taking exhibitors to visitors is what the market demands.”