The Storied History of Fern Expo: 115 Years of Excellence in Trade Shows and Events
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.
