FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Exhibitor Advocate Welcomes IAEE’s Acquisition of Exhibitor Group
February 17, 2026 – The Exhibitor Advocate, the leading non-profit association dedicated to the success of trade show exhibitors, welcomes the announcement of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events™ (IAEE) acquisition of Exhibitor Group. This strategic move signals a continued momentum in recognizing exhibitors as critical stakeholders within the exhibitions and events industry.
For years, The Exhibitor Advocate has promoted a unified industry in which exhibitors are integral partners, not merely revenue sources. IAEE’s acquisition of Exhibitor Group is an important move toward bridging the historical gap between show organizers and the companies that invest in them. By bringing Exhibitor Group—and by extension, the exhibitor voice—into the IAEE fold, there is a renewed expectation that the needs, challenges, and contributions of exhibitors, prioritized by The Exhibitor Advocate, will now be recognized by the rest of the industry.
Central to this transition is the preservation of the Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) program. As one of the premier certification programs for exhibitors, CTSM is vital to professional development and industry excellence. Many members of The Exhibitor Advocate hold the CTSM certification and participate in the program. We look forward to IAEE building upon and strengthening the program. The investment in the CTSM program ensures that exhibitors continue to have access to high-quality education and certification, as well as best practices in the industry as they are identified.
Jessica Sibila, Executive Director of The Exhibitor Advocate, said, “We look forward to working with IAEE to bring the voice of the exhibitor to an association that values an inclusive exhibitions and events industry.”
This acquisition presents a rare chance to reshape the industry landscape. The Exhibitor Advocate is eager to collaborate with IAEE to promote efforts that ensure a strong industry characterized by fair practices, open communication, and a sincere dedication to providing exhibitors with an optimal marketing environment.
About The Exhibitor Advocate
The Exhibitor Advocate is a non-profit association dedicated to providing unbiased, holistic support that empowers exhibitors. Made by exhibitors, for exhibitors, the organization works directly with show management, general service contractors, suppliers, and other industry stakeholders to advance policies and practices that benefit the entire ecosystem. Through data-driven insights, advocacy, and collaboration, The Exhibitor Advocate ensures that exhibitors have a voice in the ever-changing trade show industry. For more information, visit www.exhibitoradvocacy.com.
Media Contact:
Jessica Sibila, CTSM, CMP
Executive Director, The Exhibitor Advocate
303-902-7100
jessica@exhibitoradvocacy.com