Hi, we’re Freeman.

Whether virtual, in-person, or hybrid, we are on a mission to redefine events for a new era.

With a data-driven approach and the industry’s largest network of experts, our insights shape exhibitions, exhibits, and events that drive audiences to action.

Our integrated full-service solutions leverage a 100-year legacy in event management as well as new technologies to deliver moments that matter.

Creating those moments — the ones that linger in people's memories and live on through their stories — is what we do. And we can do it for you.

Our event(ful) history

It all began with a party. While pledging a national fraternity at the University of Iowa, young Donald S. “Buck” Freeman discovered his passion for party decorating and parades. Buck saw an opportunity to use his enthusiasm for bringing people together to create meaningful experiences.

A true visionary, Buck firmly believed in creating personal relationships in an impersonal world. As Freeman grew from a humble decorating company to servicing trade shows, conferences, and events across the country, Buck’s commitment to building these meaningful customer relationships became infused throughout the organization.

Our never-ending drive to meet customers’ ever-changing needs — and to do it better than anyone else — has grown Freeman to one of the world’s leading event companies.

“I was never really focused on being the biggest, simply being the best.”

Buck Freeman
Founder Tweet

Making moments that matter.
From the beginning.

Almost a century after Buck threw his first college party, the customers and venues have changed, technology has evolved, our reach is far greater, and the event services we offer far more expansive. Yet even as Freeman continues to grow, our commitment to making moments that matter remains the same.

1920–1950s

Donald S. “Buck” Freeman opens first Freeman Decorating Office in 1927. With trade shows banned in 1941, Buck pivots the company to support WWII effort. Freeman opens Dallas office to support the Texas State Fair in 1950. It quickly becomes HQ.

1960–1970s

Freight and rigging become core offerings in 1961, bolstering full-service solutions. A new division offers full range of exhibit, construction, and management services in 1966. In 1975 Freeman expertise expands to include sound, visual, and experience of events.

1980s

In 1981, the company’s reach, now nationwide, spans coast to coast in the U.S. The first Canadian division opens in 1988, with many international expansions to come.

1990s

Freeman offers an industry-first online ordering system for exhibitors in 1995. Freeman becomes market share leader in 1997, producing the 200 largest trade shows in the U.S.

2000s

A new division specializes in complex, theatrical-level exhibit and event rigging in 2000. Freeman begins offering full-service electrical services in 2002. In 2007, new creative and strategic solutions help clients with brand presence at events.

2010s

International expansion continues in 2013 with offices in the U.K. Freeman expands into China and Singapore in 2015, becoming global leader. In 2015, Freeman makes a series of acquisitions and advancements in data and digital. Service enhancements in 2019, including simplified per-pound pricing, alleviate exhibitor pain points.

Today

With events in 2020 crippled by COVID-19, Freeman leads industry stewardship by launching Go LIVE Together coalition.

Our values

Since the beginning, we have been driven by a purpose and guided by the values we hold dear. Across our entire organization, regardless of role, everyone at Freeman is committed to making moments that matter with:

Integrity

It’s first because without it, nothing else matters. It’s honesty, trust, humility, and doing the right thing above all else. It’s who we are and who you can expect us to always be.

Empathy

Success can only be achieved if we put people at the center and truly understand what’s important to them. It’s observing, listening, and caring about perceptions, expectations, and feelings of others. It’s at the heart of what we do.

Innovation

Good enough is never enough. We are constantly searching for ideas that deliver lasting value and improve the experiences we create.

Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm inspires confidence — no matter the situation. Our teams embrace challenges with optimism in the name of creating solutions that inspire audiences to action.

Performance Excellence

Results are what matter most. With a deep sense of personal accountability for delivering measurable results, we hold ourselves to the highest standards possible.

Collaboration

Together. That is how we work within our company and with every one of our clients. Guided by a shared goal, we work together to make every interaction authentic, memorable, and engaging.

We abide by a Code of Conduct. It’s available for download in U.S. English.

Our brands

Helping our customers make moments that matter

An extension of Freeman, our portfolio of brands expands our network of talent and expertise to help bring your experiences to life for your most important audiences.