In 1986, a vision took shape. What began as a small operation founded by Gil and Barry Ballen has grown into a company defined by craftsmanship, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to its clients. Forty years later, Gilbert stands as a leader in creating environments that bring brands to life—built on a foundation of hard work, evolution, and people.  

The Early Years: Building the Foundation 

Gilbert Displays was established in 1986 with a clear purpose: to deliver thoughtful, high-quality solutions rooted in quality, service, and expertise. Recognizing the complexities and challenges that come with navigating the trade show and events landscape, the goal was to deliver turnkey solutions – design, fabrication, services, installation, and everything in between – to brands wanting to exhibit at trade shows. That same year, the company completed its first custom-built exhibit—marking the beginning of a legacy in tailored brand environments. 

Momentum came quickly. By 1987, Gilbert secured a 15,000 sq. ft. facility in Valley Stream, expanding its operational capacity and setting the stage for future growth. These early milestones defined the company’s direction—hands-on, ambitious, and focused on delivering meaningful work with a passion for going above and beyond for clients.   

The 1990s: Growth and Expansion

The 1990s were a decade of significant expansion, as Gilbert broadened its reach into the optical, fashion, medical, and jewelry industries—building lasting partnerships and expanding its portfolio. This growth led to a move to a 55,000 sq. ft. facility in Hicksville in 1992, dramatically increasing production capabilities. That same year, the acquisition of Graphic Displays further strengthened the company’s expertise and expanded its industry presence. 

In 1996, Barry Ballen was honored with the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award, recognizing his leadership and vision. 

By the end of the decade, Gilbert continued to invest in its infrastructure, acquiring a Plainview warehouse in 1999 to support growing logistical demands and prepare for what was next.   

The 2000s: Scaling the Vision 

Building on strong relationships with its trade show clients and staying committed to providing the utmost quality, Gilbert organically expanded into retail, designing and constructing luxury retail environments across the fashion, jewelry, and watch sectors through word of mouth and referrals from clients. In 2000, Gilbert relocated its headquarters to Melville, New York, bringing offices, production, and warehousing together under one 125,000 sq. ft. roof. This move was more than expansion—it was a commitment to scale, efficiency, and a bigger vision for the future.  

This collaborative, client-driven approach earned industry recognition. In 2003, Gilbert received the Olympus Partnership Award, a testament to the strength of its relationships and its consistent delivery of high-quality work.

The 2010s: Evolution and Innovation

As the company grew, so did its capabilities. In 2011, Gilbert celebrated 25 years in business—alongside a strategic reorganization of its production floor to improve efficiency and workflow. 

The following year marked a major investment in fabrication, with the launch of a full-service metal department to increase Gilbert’s quality control and offerings to its clients. This addition enhanced Gilbert’s ability to execute complex builds entirely in-house, reinforcing its reputation for quality and expertise. 

In 2013, the next generation stepped in as Matt Ballen joined the company, continuing a family legacy and bringing fresh perspective to the business. 

By 2017, the company had evolved beyond its original scope. Gilbert Displays officially became Gilbert, a rebrand that reflected a broader vision of providing large-scale exceptional brand experiences across multiple mediums.  

The 2020s: Resilience and the Road Ahead 

In 2020, Gilbert faced one of the most challenging moments in recent history. Through rapid adaptation, the Gilbert team catered to urgent needs through the COVID-19 pandemic by providing health and safety related structures, turned its sights inward to streamline operations and increase efficiencies, and focused on long-term growth strategy under Matt Ballen’s new leadership as COO.  

The growth continued. In 2024, Gilbert expanded west with a 46,000 sq. ft. facility in Las Vegas, strengthening its national presence and enhancing its ability to support clients across the country.

40 Years and Forward 

Today, Gilbert celebrates 40 years of building spaces, relationships, and experiences that connect brands with people. What began as a small, determined operation has become an established organization driven by creativity, collaboration, partnership, and craftsmanship at every level. 

And while the past four decades have shaped who Gilbert is today, the focus remains firmly on the future. 

About Gilbert

Gilbert is a turnkey organization that provides design, construction, and management solutions for trade show exhibits, retail, hospitality, corporate, and residential environments, and corporate events. 

Learn more about our trade show services here.