From fulfillment to hiring, these fast-growing exhibit and event firms explain how they earned national recognition
Each year, Inc. Magazine publishes its Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. Because the full list is gated, it’s unclear how many tradeshow or experiential firms were included in 2025. Five companies from the industry have publicly announced their inclusion, providing insight into how some businesses in the space are growing.
From investing in internal teams to rethinking fulfillment models and being selective about client partnerships, these firms are finding practical ways to grow in a post-pandemic market still adjusting to new expectations.
Apple Rock: Growing by Bringing It All In-House
Apple Rock, based in Greensboro, North Carolina, was named to the 2025 Inc. Regionals: Mid-Atlantic list. According to marketing assistant Avery French, the company’s biggest leap came from rethinking how and where work gets done.
“We have focused on ‘insourcing’ rather than outsourcing,” French says. “Where many exhibit houses have looked outside to partners for fulfilment, we have brought in more people and capabilities under our umbrella.”
That shift gives Apple Rock more control over quality, timelines, and cost. It also allows the company to be more flexible with client needs. Technology has played a growing role. From LED installations to custom digital content, gamification, and sensory experiences, Apple Rock’s in-house tech team is helping brands connect in new ways.
“We help companies connect in brand new ways,” French says.
To support that work, the company has expanded its footprint across the country, built out its production capabilities, and continued investing in design and logistics teams.
Ace Displays: Winning on Speed and Simplicity
Ace Displays, located in Southlake, Texas, credits its growth to speed and value. The company prints and fulfills orders in-house, making it possible to deliver custom displays in a matter of days.
“The biggest driver of our growth is our ability to combine fast turnaround times with strong value and quality,” says marketing manager Kiana Mitchell. “Customers often need displays and signage in days, not weeks.”
Even after the disruptions of the pandemic, Ace has stayed focused on the fundamentals.
“Businesses still need to stand out visually, communicate clearly, and move quickly when opportunities arise,” Mitchell says.
To keep up with rising demand, Ace has expanded its marketing department, introduced performance bonuses, and streamlined internal processes. Mitchell says the goal is to keep improving while maintaining the fast, reliable service that sets them apart.
Exhibitus: Evolving Alongside Clients
Exhibitus, headquartered in Atlanta, is no stranger to the Inc. 5000 list. This year marks its fifth appearance. The company attributes its staying power to deep client relationships and the ability to evolve as the market changes.
“Our long-term success has been fueled by how we continually strengthen relationships and evolve our business alongside our clients,” says Lynn Reves, vice president of marketing and results strategy. “We celebrate our clients’ successes as if they were our own.”
Post-pandemic, the stakes are higher. Brands are more selective about which events they attend and what those engagements should accomplish.
“Expectations are significantly higher,” Reves says. “Environments and messaging must be highly curated.”
She adds that B2B clients are increasingly adopting the storytelling and audience-first strategies once reserved for consumer brands.
Internally, Exhibitus has focused on giving its team the tools and support they need to grow alongside the company. Reves says this includes streamlining operations and nurturing a culture where every employee feels connected to the outcome of each project.
Steelhead Productions: Disciplined, Intentional Growth
Las Vegas-based Steelhead Productions made the list for the third time this year, coming in at number 3,569. The company’s B Corp certification reflects its commitment to sustainable practices, but its growth strategy is just as intentional as its values.
“We are intentional and discerning about which projects we accept,” says Elizabeth Martinez, director of marketing operations. “That focus ensures that we’re always aligned with partners who are the right fit.”
That clarity has helped Steelhead build a reputation for quality and consistency. It also attracts the right employees, which the company considers its biggest asset.
“Our incredibly talented people have powered Steelhead’s growth,” Martinez says.
The company invests in tools and training that help employees be more effective. Martinez says leaders work alongside their teams, making sure that growth is a shared experience and not just a business goal.
Steelhead also sees the renewed interest in face-to-face events as permanent.
“Coming out of the pandemic, we’ve not only seen a return to in-person engagement but a heightened appreciation for it,” Martinez says.
Exponents: Growth Fueled by Presence and Partnerships
Exponents, headquartered in San Diego, earned the No. 1,087 spot on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list. The recognition reflects a threefold revenue increase over the past three years. The company specializes in turnkey trade show booth rentals and attributes its growth to both nationwide expansion and its streamlined, client-first approach.
“Being ranked #1087 on the Inc. 5000 is a tremendous honor,” says CEO Rajnikant Kedia. “It shows that our growth is built on creativity, reliability, and the partnerships we’ve nurtured with clients. And as I often remind our team—our best is yet to come.”
Exponents has expanded from two to five production hubs since 2020, giving it the infrastructure to support activations in more than 70 U.S. cities. That network allows for speed, cost efficiency, and hands-on service at every step, from booth design to delivery, setup, and dismantle.
With more than 40 years of industry experience, Exponents combines design expertise with low reliance on third-party vendors. The company’s fixed pricing model and fully in-house capabilities are central to its promise of stress-free exhibiting, especially as clients navigate rising costs and shifting expectations.
More Than Momentum
All five companies occupy different spaces within the tradeshow and experiential industry. What connects them is a shared focus on sustainable growth, internal investment, and staying closely aligned with client needs. Growth may earn the headlines, but long-term success comes from strategy, consistency, and trust.
Apple Rock is a full-service event marketing agency specializing in custom exhibit design, immersive environments, and experiential activations. For more info, visit www.applerock.com.
Ace Displays is a provider of custom event and tradeshow displays, offering affordable, high-quality branding solutions with fast turnaround times. For more info, visit www.acedisplays.com.
Exhibitus is an experiential agency focused on creating brand environments and immersive experiences that connect audiences with purpose and creativity. For more info, visit www.exhibitus.com.
Steelhead Productions is a B Corp-certified exhibit house based in Las Vegas, known for sustainable practices, creative design, and people-first operations. For more info, visit www.steelheadproductions.com.
Exponents is a U.S.-based leader in turnkey trade show booth rentals, with in-house design, production, and logistics teams at facilities in San Diego, Las Vegas, Orlando, and Dallas. For more info, visit www.exponents.com.
