Skilled labor is critical to your success. And it’s the scarcest resource in the live events business today. With Nth Degree, the global leader in exhibitor appointed contractor (EAC) labor management services, Fern provides access to a premier labor force that is the envy of the industry.
Fern’s labor management approach combines experienced crews with disciplined oversight to ensure work is performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with local requirements. By planning labor strategically and coordinating closely with logistics and material handling teams, Fern helps reduce delays, manage costs, and keep events on schedule.
From unmatched Installation & Dismantle Labor to Onsite Supervision and Project Management, Fern excels at assembling reliable and experienced work teams that deliver a premium level of personal service.
We provide elite labor and disciplined oversight that keep events on track.
Skilled installation and dismantle crews execute work efficiently and safely, ensuring exhibits and environments are built and removed according to plan.
On-site supervision provides active oversight, coordination, and quality control to keep labor aligned with schedules, scopes, and safety standards.
Dedicated project management supports clear communication, timeline alignment, and coordination across teams to deliver consistent results from planning through execution.
With relentless attention to detail, our I&D teams have the know-how and the “want-to” necessary to exceed the exacting expectations of event organizers and exhibitors on the show floor. Our crews are geared to deliver on often challenging timelines, with proven practices that run like clockwork and finish on-time and on-budget.
With relentless attention to detail, our I&D teams have the know-how and the “want-to” necessary to exceed the exacting expectations of event organizers and exhibitors on the show floor. Our crews are geared to deliver on often challenging timelines, with proven practices that run like clockwork and finish on-time and on-budget.
The key to delivering brilliant I&D experiences is having seasoned supervisors who are working members of the crew -- who have mastered every detail of your load-in and load-out. Our I&D supervisors are empowered decision-makers and respected team leaders who are equally adept at managing timelines, budgets, third-party suppliers, and every element of your trade show, exhibit, and event.
The key to delivering brilliant I&D experiences is having seasoned supervisors who are working members of the crew -- who have mastered every detail of your load-in and load-out. Our I&D supervisors are empowered decision-makers and respected team leaders who are equally adept at managing timelines, budgets, third-party suppliers, and every element of your trade show, exhibit, and event.
Labor Management refers to the planning, coordination, supervision, and execution of skilled labor required to install, dismantle, and service exhibits and event environments. This includes oversight of labor jurisdictions, scheduling, safety, compliance, and productivity—before, during, and after the event.
Fern manages and coordinates labor for:
Fern’s role is to ensure labor is properly scheduled, compliant, efficient, and safely executed.
Labor requirements vary by city, venue, and jurisdiction. In many markets, union or official labor is required for certain tasks to:
As the official contractor, Fern ensures all labor follows these rules consistently and transparently.
What exhibitors may do themselves depends on local labor rules. Fern clearly communicates:
This guidance helps exhibitors plan staffing appropriately and avoid delays or violations onsite.
Fern supports accurate labor planning by:
Proper planning helps control costs and avoid last-minute adjustments.
Labor rates are determined by local labor agreements and typically include:
Fern clearly communicates rate structures and schedules so exhibitors can plan efficiently.
Yes. Exhibitors or their representatives may direct the work being performed, while Fern provides oversight to ensure safety, compliance, and productivity. This approach balances exhibitor control with operational responsibility.
If labor runs longer than planned:
Fern’s focus is on keeping work moving efficiently while avoiding unnecessary overtime.
Safety is a core component of Fern’s labor management approach. This includes:
Safe labor practices protect people, property, and the event schedule.
Yes. Advance labor ordering allows Fern to:
Advance planning is strongly recommended for complex or time-sensitive builds.
Fern maintains on-site service desks and labor teams to support last-minute needs when possible. Availability depends on show schedules and labor demand, and onsite orders may be subject to higher rates.
Fern coordinates:
This integrated approach reduces congestion and keeps move-in and move-out on schedule.
For organizers and associations, Fern:
This protects the overall event experience and minimizes operational risk.
Fern helps exhibitors control labor costs by:
Clear communication and preparation are the most effective cost-control tools.
Fern maintains on-site supervisors and service desks throughout install, show days, and dismantle. Exhibitors can speak directly with Fern staff for immediate assistance, adjustments, or clarification.
