Truelink Capital Expands GES Platform with Acquisition of CSG Creative, a Leading Association Marketing and Creative Agency

LOS ANGELES and LAS VEGAS, Nov. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Truelink Capital ("Truelink"), a Los Angeles-based private equity firm focused on growth and long-term value creation, announced today that its portfolio company GES has acquired CSG Creative ("CSG" or the "Company"), a strategic marketing and creative agency serving associations and event organizers, from National Trade Productions, Inc. ("NTP"). GES is a global leader in exhibition and experiential marketing services for event organizers and brand marketers. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, CSG provides brand strategy, creative, digital, and multi-channel marketing services that help associations and event organizers build their brands and grow membership and event attendance. The Company works as an extension of its clients' marketing teams, primarily through year-round retainer relationships, and serves associations, trade shows, and conferences. CSG will continue to operate under its own brand as an operating company within GES, with President Paige Cardwell and the existing leadership team remaining in place.

The acquisition expands GES's marketing and creative capabilities, pairing its global exhibition services and event organizer relationships with CSG's expertise in growing event attendance and membership for association clients. The combination also creates two-way cross-sell opportunities, extending CSG's services across GES's broader client base and introducing CSG's clients to GES's exhibition services.

"CSG has a deeply experienced team, long-standing association relationships, and a strong reputation," said Luke Myers, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Truelink Capital. "Together, GES and CSG give associations and event organizers a single partner from attendee marketing through show execution, and we continue to see a robust pipeline of M&A opportunities to build on the platform."

"This acquisition is an investment in capabilities that complement our existing services and strengthen the value we bring to clients," said Derek Linde, CEO of GES. "CSG has established itself as a leader in the association and exhibitions industry, with an exceptional track record of helping organizations and events grow through strategic marketing, creative excellence, and measurable results. The partnership reinforces our commitment to specialized expertise, innovation, and services that help clients build stronger brands, engage audiences, and drive long-term business growth."

This acquisition marks GES's second add-on under Truelink's ownership, following its acquisition of 2Heads in 2025, and reflects Truelink's continued focus on partnering with industry-leading companies in the industrials and business services sectors.

ABOUT TRUELINK CAPITAL
Truelink Capital is a private equity firm based in Los Angeles with over $4.3 billion of assets under management. Truelink pairs deep industry experience in the industrials and business services sectors with a commitment to building partnerships that drive long-term value through an operationally focused strategy. Truelink partners with management, corporate sellers, and founders to accelerate growth through the execution of strategic initiatives and transformative add-on acquisitions. Learn more at: www.truelinkcap.com.

ABOUT GES
With a legacy of almost 90 years, GES is a global live events company providing exhibition services, brand experiences, and live event venue services throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. Our comprehensive suite of award-winning services brings client visions to life by creating immersive brand experiences and producing impactful events that connect audiences and drive business success. Learn more at: www.GES.com.

ABOUT CSG CREATIVE
CSG Creative is a premier strategic marketing and creative services agency specializing in associations and events. Through multi-channel marketing strategies, creative campaigns, integrated plans, and seamless execution, CSG helps leading organizations build brands, grow audiences, and increase revenue. Its extensive industry expertise, commitment to client service, and long-standing relationships help clients connect with audiences and achieve meaningful results. Learn more at: www.csgcreative.com.

ABOUT NATIONAL TRADE PRODUCTIONS
National Trade Productions, Inc. (NTP) is a recognized leader in the trade show and event industry. Celebrating 50 years, NTP has a proven legacy of industry leadership and innovation by successfully launching, producing, and managing proprietary events, as well as trade shows for clients across diverse market segments. Learn more at: www.ntpshow.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Peter Lewis
Head of Business Development
plewis@truelinkcap.com
Truelink Capital

SOURCE Truelink Capital