1990
Michael Knowles invents “The Intergraph,” a digital keypad powered by the BBC microcomputer. Designed to handle electronic voting, it could serve a maximum of 12 people using a series of colored LEDs.
1991
IML (interactive Meetings Limited) is founded on 15 March 1991 in Haslemere, Surrey. The first cabled keypad is produced and IML begins running events supporting up to 200 participants. IML is an early pioneer in the development of interactive group responses, which allowed audiences to participate within meetings and events.
1993
With the launch of Windows 3.1, IML releases a new voting keypad to support increasing feature requirements, and the number of annual events grows quickly to over 2,000.
1995
The expanding business of IML enables a growth into new industries, supporting voting across meetings for government, tech industry giants and TV shows such as Who Wants to be a Millionaire.
1997
IML expands internationally as Four Points in Belgium becomes the first reseller of IML products abroad.
1998
IML continues to innovate with an update to its keypad with integrated infra-red and patented comms network, providing a more portable and less labor-intensive setup.
1999
Another new keypad is launched, this time with the introduction of a qwerty keypad and built-in microphone, the first in the conference industry. Supporting multiple languages with swappable keyboard layouts helps IML to push into new markets.
2001
Another international expansion as IML Solutions partners with a reseller in South Africa.
2002
Another new voting keypad device is launched fusing advanced audience interaction features with integrated voice communication system. Ezicomms in Sydney, later to become IML Australia, is formed by Peter Knowles.
2003
IML delivers the first AGM for long-term client Shell using Meeting Express in-room meeting solution.
2005
Due to successful growth, IML is acquired by Australian brand Computershare who want in-house AGM technology.
2007
Eventbookings, an online event management software and delegate management services company, is acquired by IML. Further expansion with new offices in Scotland and Hong Kong support the company’s growth.
2008
Computershare continues expanding with an acquisition of Machine Dreams Inc to support the IML meeting and event business.
2010
The IML Connector is launched to a great reception. A variety of features are offered that go beyond traditional voting to provide a new level of interactive engagement for delegates at all event types. IML partners with Satellite Visual Communications in the UAE, becoming the sole Middle East commercial partner for IML.
2012
Latin America becomes the latest region to get an IML distribution partner with Peru-based Stringnet Multimedia Systems S.A.C.
IML also launches the first tablet-based solution for increased engagement during meeting events.
Richard Taylor joins Lumi Global as the new CEO.
2013
Lumi Mobile, a consumer insight technology business, acquires IML from Computershare.
2014
“Lumi Global” is born as the combined forces of IML and Lumi Mobile join up to launch a new brand identity.
2015
Lumi Global delivers the world’s first hybrid shareholder meeting at FloraHolland’s general member’s meeting in June 2015. Authentication features evolve with the introduction of Lumi Track, allowing event organizers to report on attendee participation and engagement.
Sir Nigel Knowles is appointed non-executive Director, who remains with Lumi Global to this day.
Meetoo, an Android and iOS app designed to provide real-time polling and messaging, is launched by Lumi Global.
2016
Lumi AGM Mobile facilitates the UK’s first electronic AGM held by a listed company. Registrar Equiniti introduces the platform to luxury shoes and accessories brand Jimmy Choo, making the event accessible to shareholders all over the world.
2017
Vespa Capital backs the management buy-out of Lumi AGM.
Lumi acquires Paris-based Digimedia.
Lumi sells UK Meetings and Events business, IML Interactive UK, to Crystal Interactive.
Rahul Shah is appointed as Lumi’s new CFO.
2018
Lumi announces a reseller partnership with Company Webcast to accelerate the growth of virtual and hybrid AGMs.
Lumi also announces a new partnership with the NFGD, the Netherland’s oldest creative audiovisual company.
2019
Connect by Lumi is launched, a fully supported Event Management platform to manage the event journey from pre-event registration to planning and post-event support.
Lumi successfully completes the Elia Group Extraordinary General Meeting in collaboration with Proxymity.
Lumi achieves ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification.
2020
Lumi facilitates the first virtual AGM in Japan, the first hybrid AGM in Norway, the first General Assembly Meeting in Jordan, and the first virtual AGM in South Africa.
2021
Lumi extends relationship with Proxymity in Belgium and Luxembourg.
Lumi is selected as the exclusive platform for hybrid AGMs by Taiwan Depository and Clearing Corporation (TDCC).
Lumi facilitates Samsung Electronics' AGM, the first time an electronic voting solution is used during a shareholder meeting in Korea.
Marc Harper joins Lumi in the role of CTO.
2022
Vespa capital announces the successful recapitalization of Lumi.
Lumi’s board continues to grow with the arrival of Pete Fowler as COO.
2023
Lumi Global expands into the investor relations market, supported by Sylvie Harton joining the team as Chief Business Strategy Officer.
Our first state-of-the-art, purpose-built Lumi Experience venues open across Canada in key cities: Montréal, Calgary, and Toronto.
2024
Lumi Global’s rapid growth leads to a brand transformation, with an exciting new look and feel, branding, and company positioning unveiled via a brand new website.
