Celebrating 50 Years of APG Exhibits: A Legacy of Innovation and Resilience

Fifty years ago, in the heart of downtown Chicago, Wednesday July 23, 1975 with the temperature in the high 80's and thunder storming, Donald Baron with a $25,000.00 loan founded a small printing company, the John Charles Corporation with a simple mission: to provide high-quality print solutions with exceptional service. What began as a local print shop in 1975 would go on to evolve, adapt, and ultimately become a leader in the trade show exhibit industry. APG Exhibits stands as a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and the enduring values of a family business.

From Printing to Promotions: A Business Evolves

As technology advanced and the printing industry changed, so did the vision of the Baron family, Donald, Barbara, and Matthew. It was obvious that computers would replace the craftsman and equipment and they would become dinosaurs. The company expanded into promotional products and marketing services, rebranding as Prewards Ltd. and ComPro under the management of Barbara Baron, while Donald Baron focused on future direction and growth of the company. The agency became a nationally approved supplier for McDonald’s and the The Coca-Cola Company, a milestone that showcased the company’s capability and reach. However, as Matthew Baron rejoined the business, he recognized the challenges of relying on large corporate clients with unpredictable demands. “Being a nationally approved supplier was a great achievement, but it was also like working for the government—too many hoops to jump through with very little guarantee of real business,” recalls Matthew Baron.

With this realization, Matthew convinced his parents to pivot the company’s focus toward the exhibiting industry, recognizing the potential for long-term growth in trade show displays and marketing solutions. This shift laid the foundation for what would eventually become APG Exhibits.

The Highs and Lows of Family Business

Managing a family business is a remarkable journey filled with challenges, growth, and unwavering commitment. There were moments of uncertainty, difficult transitions, and the ever-present need to adapt to a changing economy. Yet, through it all, the Baron family’s unwavering commitment to quality, customer service, and code of ethics, innovation remained constant.

Growth and Innovation

APG Exhibits grew steadily, earning recognition as one of Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Company's for three consecutive years (2015, 2016, and 2017). The company continues to balance rapid growth with top-tier customer service and a dedication to sustainability.

Matthew Baron also led in workplace innovation by supporting remote work long before it became common. He encouraged their long-time accounting manager, Donna Schule, to work from home, saving her the stress of a daily commute of over an hour each way. Inspired by a Time magazine article detailing annual savings of $10,000 to $20,000 for remote workers, this decision showcased forward-thinking leadership and a commitment to employee well-being. Matthew's vision to change the direction of the family business, ensured that our family legacy continued to thrive while innovating new ways to meet our clients' marketing needs.

Navigating the Global Pandemic

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, trade shows, conferences, and live events came to a screeching halt. Like many businesses in the event industry, APG Exhibits faced an uncertain future. But in true Baron family fashion, adaptation was the key to survival. The company swiftly pivoted to providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to businesses and organizations in need. This strategic shift not only kept APG Exhibits afloat but allowed it to keep all employees and emerge the crisis stronger than before.

Dedication Beyond Business

APG Exhibits remains dedicated to giving back. Through initiatives featured on their “Exhibit Kindness” page, they support organizations like Life is Good, Alliance to Cure Cavernous Malformation—a cause close to Matthew’s heart as his daughter is affected by this condition—and other meaningful charities.

Thriving in 2025 and Beyond

Today, APG Exhibits is stronger than ever, leading the way in trade show marketing solutions while carrying forward the values that have defined the business for half a century. The journey from a small print shop to an industry leader has been marked by change, challenge, and resilience—but above all, by the unwavering commitment of the Baron family. As we celebrate 50 years, we honor the past, embrace the present, and look forward to a future filled with new opportunities. To our customers, partners, and team members—Experience the difference that a family-owned business can make! Let's create something extraordinary together, thank you for being part of this incredible journey.

Here’s to the next 50 years of success and innovation!