From its modest beginnings to becoming a leader in the trade show and events industry, Fern Expo’s journey is a tale of innovation, dedication, and strategic growth. Founded in the early 20th century, the company has consistently set benchmarks in the industry, continually adapting to changing market dynamics while staying true to its core values.

Early Beginnings and Innovations (1879-1960s)

George E. Fern, born in 1879, laid the groundwork for what would become a pioneering force inthe events industry. By 1909, “Geo E. Fern Decorator” appeared in the Cincinnati Business Directory, marking the formal establishment of the company. Just a year later, during the Ohio Valley Exposition 1910, Fern made a significant impact by introducing the first uniform exhibit booth—a revolutionary concept at the time.

Fern managed numerous association meetings, trade shows, and other events across the Midwest and East Coast for decades, establishing a reputation for reliability and innovation. This era of growth and expansion culminated in 1962 when Budig Trucking Company purchased the business. George Budig, the new General Manager, led the company until 2005, overseeing a period of substantial growth.

Strategic Focus and Expansion (1970s-2000s)

The 1970s and early ’80s were transformative years for Fern. In 1985, the company made a strategic decision to sell its trucking segment, focusing solely on the trade show and event business. This bold move paid off, as Fern experienced significant growth through new client acquisitions, opening new locations, and expanding services.

2008, the company entered a new era, with Aaron Bludworth joining as COO. This period began Fern’s rebranding and further expansion, solidifying its position as one of the top three service providers for trade shows and events in the United States.

Technological Advancements and Industry Leadership (2010s-2023)

Fern continued to innovate in the 2010s, with a significant milestone being the acquisition of NexxtShow in 2013.This strategic move expanded Fern’s capabilities and led to the development of cutting-edge solutions like NexxtWall, Freedom Shipping, and Personal Exhibitor Assistants, solidifying Fern’s position as an industry leader.

The company’s expansion into the Pacific Northwest in 2019 established Fern as the leading provider in that region, extending its reach from coast to coast. This year also saw the launch of OneView, the industry’s first comprehensive exhibitor marketplace and collaboration portal, revolutionizing how exhibitor teams interact and manage their tasks.

In 2020, Fern once again demonstrated its commitment to customer service by introducing 1RATE, a transparent and user-friendly solution to the complexities of material handling. The company also implemented an exhibitor-friendly cancellation policy, offering 100% refunds with no questions asked and setting a new standard in the industry.

Commitment to Excellence and Future Outlook (2023 & Beyond)

In 2023, Fern was acquired by MSouth Equity Partners, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey. As part of this acquisition, Fern continues to operate as an independent business unit in conjunction with Nth Degree. The complementary services and solutions of Fern and Nth Degree provide both existing customers and future customers with options and alternatives not previously available, ushering in a new era of possibilities.

By weaving together a rich history with a forward-looking vision, Fern Expo remains a cornerstone of the trade show and events industry. The company’s unwavering commitment to excellence, demonstrated through its innovative solutions, strategic decisions, and customer-centric policies, embodies a legacy of excellence and a future of limitless potential, instilling confidence in the company’s future for both its employees and customers.

ESCA Earns EIC Sustainability and Social Impact Foundations Certificate

The Exhibition Services and Contractors Association (ESCA) is proud to announce that we have earned the ‘Sustainability and Social Impact Foundations Certificate’ provided by the Events Industry Council (EIC). The EIC Foundations Certificate Programme guides events industry organizations in setting up the essential policies and plans to launch their sustainability and social impact programs by providing guidance, templates, examples, and coaching. This certification reflects our commitment to meeting and exceeding high sustainability standards in the exhibitions and events industry.

Sustainable Initiatives at the 2024 Summer Educational Conference

While planning for the 2024 Summer Educational Conference, ESCA made conscious decisions to improve our sustainable impact through various initiatives in signage, resource management, venue and logistics, and waste reduction.

We leveraged technology to enhance our sustainability efforts through strategic partnerships. By collaborating with Veloxity, we utilized their digital signage, significantly reducing the need for printed graphics and signage. Veloxity also enabled us to offer our attendees an interactive experience with our information. Additionally, we partnered with EventMobi to provide a digital app for schedules and updates, minimizing paper use. To further reduce paper usage, we used EventAce, a software designed for audience engagement and digital note-taking. Lastly, we leveraged 42Chat to push timely updates and coordinate communication with our attendees effectively.

In our efforts to manage resources responsibly, we prioritized the selection of sustainable materials for any necessary printed graphics. Collaborating closely with our venue, we implemented water conservation practices and ensured that all operational procedures were in line with our sustainability objectives.

To address waste reduction, we eliminated single-use plastics, provided attendees with reusable water bottles, and opted for biodegradable alternatives such as wooden stirrers. These initiatives highlight our commitment to sustainability and our proactive approach to creating a more environmentally friendly event.

ESCA will continue to seek innovative ways to enhance our sustainability efforts and set a positive example in the industry. We are excited about the progress we’ve made and look forward to maintaining and improving our sustainability practices in all our future events.

Leo Curtin dared to dream big. Being a visionary with a heart of gold and a passion for excellence, Leo embarked on a journey that would shape the landscape of the convention industry for generations to come.

In the summer of 1964, Leo founded Curtin Convention…an endeavor born from the depths of his home garage. Sparked with passion and just $75 in his bank account and 25 handmade 6′ tables, Leo set out to revolutionize the organization and execution of tradeshows and events. Little did he know his modest beginnings would blossom into a legacy spanning six decades–so far!

Leo swiftly became known as the “Godfather” of the local decorator’s union in San Francisco, earning the respect, admiration and trust of his colleagues and the local unions as he recognized the value in true partnerships. Leo was known for his dedication to the craft and his eye for perfection. His influence extended far beyond the borders of San Francisco. One of the highlights of Leo’s career came in 1972 when he presented the Reverend Billy Graham with a Malie Lei at the National Association of Realtors Convention at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel in Hawaii. This was a gesture of respect, blessing, and reverence, and a symbol of Leo’s unwavering commitment to peace and unity. Another memorable moment for Leo was serving the American Society of Association Executives in Las Vegas in 1974, with none other than President Gerald Ford as the keynote speaker. It was a momentous occasion, a testament to Leo’s stature in the industry and to his commitment to excellence.

Over the years Curtin Convention has served clients from Hawaii to Massachusetts and in 36 additional states, leaving a lasting impact on all of those Curtin has partnered with. From SuperBowl 50 to ASAE, from Google to the San Francisco Giants, to Apple, Zoom, TechCrunch and Meta, to associations in science, education, entertainment and so many more, each collaboration has been a unique opportunity to showcase Curtin’s expertise and to gain additional skills–and to remain a leader in the industry. A fun fact in Curtin’s history is their partnership with the California Physical Therapy Association–a long standing alliance of 56 years!

Curtin celebrates 60 years of excellence July 1, 2024, and is proud to be the most senior independent convention contractor on the West Coast. Today, Curtin is led by Leo’s daughter Lynne, his son Kevin and his daughter-in-law Dianna. With each event Curtin serves their expertise and influence as second-generation leadership is showcased. Curtin remains committed as a family owned and operated general service contractor, with a strong and dedicated team of family members and longtime friends.

In the fast changing and dynamic landscape of the tradeshow and convention industry, one thing remains constant–the enduring legacy of Leo Curtin and Curtin Convention, driving the pursuit of Exhibiting Excellence Everyday!

In pursuit of his American Dream, William C. Vriens Sr. overcame the challenge of lacking a formal education to secure a job installing advertisement displays in store windows for a local decorating company. Quickly recognizing his talent and passion for “making things look good,” he dedicated himself to his craft, steadily building equity in the company. By the late 1940s, William channeled this developed passion into founding Modern Display Service. Like many great startups, Modern began with modest means, operating out of the back of a rusty 1937 Plymouth station wagon. As William honed his decorating and business skills, the company flourished.

Today, the same passion and attention to detail that William instilled in the company continue to define Modern Expo + Events. Now well into its third generation of family management under current president Taylor Vriens, Modern Expo + Events has grown into one of the nation’s leading independent exposition service contractors, special event producers, and decorators. Despite the exponential growth in services and offerings over its 80-year history, the core principles established by William Vriens Sr.—quality, value, service, family, and community—remain steadfast.

Modern Expo + Events now provides services for over 450 events annually across the country. Current President Taylor Vriens emphasizes, “We are big enough to handle the largest events but small enough to ensure every customer gets the attention and customer service they deserve.” He adds, “Our philosophy is to establish true partnerships with all our clients.”

To ensure that every client’s event needs are met regardless of location, Modern Expo has developed a network of trusted partners across the country. These partnerships are crucial, allowing Modern Expo to navigate local nuances and logistical challenges, thereby providing the best possible experience for its customers.

Modern Expo + Events distinguishes itself within the live events industry through its comprehensive service offerings. Their portfolio includes exhibit design and construction, scenic design, theme décor, floral arrangements, custom displays, event planning and management, signage and graphics, and audiovisual production. This extensive range of services positions the company as a paragon of comprehensive event solutions.

As Modern Expo + Events looks to the future, it stands poised to continue its legacy of excellence. The company embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that has defined its remarkable journey, ready to meet new challenges and seize opportunities in the ever-evolving landscape of live events.