(openPR) - ST. PAUL – In 1980, Gordon Savoie started a business with one simple product and an idea. Today, Skyline Exhibits is one of the highest-profile companies in the exhibiting industry doing business with some of the world’s biggest brands in over 40 countries. Savoie, who passed away in August, was key to that evolution.

“The reason Skyline realized such rapid success is due to Gordon’s initial business approach,” stated Paul Plunkett, Chairman, Board of Directors, Skyline Exhibits. “He had an extensive financial background as an economist, a strategist and banker, giving him the foundation on which to build a solid business. But, while his background was in finance, his true passions were design and education.”

Impact On an Industry
Early on, Gordon pushed a growing team of designers and engineers to create trade show displays that helped companies exhibit better – easier, faster, lighter. The family of products they developed changed the industry and helped fuel its growth. Soon, educational materials and programs were put in place that offered helpful exhibiting ideas, trends and best practices.

Skyline has since accumulated dozens of product design and exhibiting awards and has earned over 80 patents. Also, an estimated 150,000 exhibiting professionals have attended Skyline’s free educational seminars – and webinars – over the years.

Culture Runs Deep
Many Skyline employees, dealers and exhibiting consultants have been part of the team since the early days – 20 plus years. “Officers, management and employees have a good sense of the way Gordon wanted the business to run,” stated Bill Dierberger, President, Skyline Exhibits. “So much, in fact, that for the past few years he stepped out of day-to-day operations to casually monitor the business from warmer climates.”

“We are thankful for his legacy, and we commit today to further that legacy by living and conducting business in ways that would make him proud,” added Dierberger. “We will continue to invest in product development, in education and the next generation of designers. It’s not only what Gordon would want, it’s what we as a company believe.”

The Skyline Exhibits Design Scholarship will be established at Bemidji State University in Bemidji, Minnesota.

About Skyline Exhibits:
Skyline Exhibits is North America's leading brand of exhibit systems. Known for high-quality manufacturing, cost-saving portability, innovative functionality, creative design and exhibitor education, Skyline has nearly 100 Design Centers in North America and representation in over 40 countries. The company manufactures a broad range of products for trade shows and events–from banner stands and pop-up displays to large custom modular exhibits. With 20 integrated exhibit systems, state-of-the-art production of large-format graphics and options for exhibit rental and services, Skyline provides exhibit solutions for virtually any size or budget.

Media Contact:
Steve Jahr
3355 Discovery Road
Eagan, MN 55121
651-234-6598
stevejahr@skyline.com
www.skyline.com/