The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Exhibitor Group, the publisher of the US-based EXHIBITOR magazine and producer of the EXHIBITOR LIVE trade show. The move is aimed at strengthening IAEE’s role across the exhibitions and events ecosystem and expanding its reach to include exhibit and brand professionals.
Marsha Flanagan, President and CEO of IAEE, described the acquisition as a step toward building a more comprehensive and inclusive industry platform. She noted that bringing exhibit and brand managers into IAEE’s ecosystem would help create a unified environment where all industry voices are represented. According to her, the move is not just an acquisition but a development that could elevate the entire exhibitions and events sector.
Exhibitor Group was acquired in 2022 by STAR Exhibits & Environments. Mark Johnson, CEO of STAR, said the decision to transfer ownership was strategic. He explained that as the company expanded its experiential marketing business, it became clear that EXHIBITOR would benefit from a dedicated owner focused on its long-term growth and potential.
Brian Pagel, Chairperson of the IAEE Board, highlighted the strategic value of the acquisition, stating that it reinforces IAEE’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and stronger connections across the global exhibitions and events community.
The acquisition is expected to be finalised by 30 April 2026. Once completed, IAEE plans to work closely with the Exhibitor team to integrate operations and ensure maximum value for members, partners, and industry stakeholders. The move is seen as a significant step in strengthening IAEE’s position as a leading global association for the exhibitions and events industry.
