Note 18. Restructuring Charges

GES Consolidation

We have taken certain restructuring actions designed to reduce our cost structure primarily within GES, as well as the elimination of certain positions at the corporate office. We implemented a strategic reorganization plan in order to consolidate the separate business units within GES U.S. We also consolidated facilities and streamlined our operations in the U.S., the United Kingdom, and Germany. As a result, we recorded restructuring charges in 2017, 2016, and 2015, primarily consisting of severance and related benefits as a result of workforce reductions and charges related to the consolidation and downsizing of facilities representing the remaining operating lease obligations (net of estimated sublease income) and related costs.

Other Restructurings

We recorded restructuring charges in connection with the consolidation of certain support functions at our corporate headquarters and certain reorganization activities within Pursuit. These charges primarily consist of severance and related benefits due to headcount reductions and charges related to the downsizing of facilities.

Changes to the restructuring liability by major restructuring activity are as follows:

	GES Consolidation						Other Restructurings
(in thousands)	Severance & Employee Benefits			Facilities			Severance & Employee Benefits			Total
Balance at December 31, 2014	$	543		$	1,161		$	240		$	1,944
Restructuring charges		1,767			587			602			2,956
Cash payments		(1,514	)		(457	)		(601	)		(2,572	)
Adjustment to liability		(45	)		—			(7	)		(52	)
Balance at December 31, 2015		751			1,291			234			2,276
Restructuring charges		3,693			759			731			5,183
Cash payments		(2,170	)		(1,150	)		(546	)		(3,866	)
Adjustment to liability		—			192			(3	)		189
Balance at December 31, 2016		2,274			1,092			416			3,782
Restructuring charges		442			265			297			1,004
Cash payments		(1,165	)		(550	)		(538	)		(2,253	)
Adjustment to liability		—			—			16			16
Balance at December 31, 2017	$	1,551		$	807		$	191		$	2,549

As of December 31, 2017, the liabilities related to severance and employee benefits are expected to be paid by the end of 2018. Additionally, the liability related to future lease payments will be paid over the remaining lease terms for GES. Refer to Note 22 – Segment Information, for information regarding restructuring charges by segment.