We are a global leader in events
that make moments that matter.
What are those?
They are unforgettable experiences that create meaningful connections. Our integrated full-service solutions leverage a 97-year legacy in event management as well as new technologies to build loyalty trust between audiences and the world’s top brands.
Our Story
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. He saw an opportunity to use his enthusiasm for bringing people together to create meaningful experiences.
Making moments that matter.
Some of our key milestones:
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
In 2020, with events impacted by COVID-19, Freeman built on its 97-year history of industry stewardship by launching the Go LIVE Together coalition resulting in the formation of the Exhibitions and Conference Alliance. In 2021, Freeman CEO Bob Priest-Heck joins Global Events Industry Leaders at COP26 and signs “Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge.
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:
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.
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.
Good enough is never enough. We are constantly searching for ideas that deliver lasting value and improve the experiences we create.
Enthusiasm inspires confidence — no matter the situation. Our teams embrace challenges with optimism in the name of creating solutions that inspire audiences to action.
A learning mindset is something that everyone in our organization embraces. It walks together with our value of innovation, which is fueled by curiosity and experimentation. Everything we experience can teach us something.
We abide by a Code
of Conduct. It’s available
for download in U.S. English.