Who Owns Expo?

Expo was introduced in 1978 by Gillette Company as a dry erase marker designed for use on whiteboards and other non-porous surfaces. This founding vision demonstrated exceptional insight into the growing demand for innovative writing solutions while establishing a distinctive approach that would define the writing instruments category for generations. The brand revolutionized classroom and office environments by providing a reliable, erasable alternative to permanent markers for temporary writing and presentations. Expo's innovative technology and ease of use quickly established it as the leading dry erase marker brand. This strategic positioning demonstrated Expo's exceptional ability to create differentiated writing solutions while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards that would define the brand for decades.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Expo expanded its product line to include various marker colors, tip sizes, and complementary whiteboard products, establishing itself as a comprehensive dry erase solution provider. This period of excellence demonstrated Expo's exceptional ability to scale operations while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards across multiple writing segments. The brand became synonymous with dry erase markers, achieving such market dominance that "Expo" became a generic term for dry erase markers in many contexts. Expo products became staples in classrooms, offices, and homes worldwide. This strategic diversification demonstrated Expo's exceptional ability to serve multiple consumer segments while maintaining its core brand identity and market leadership in the writing instruments industry.

In 2000, Expo was acquired by Newell as part of Newell's acquisition of Gillette's stationery products business. This strategic integration demonstrated Expo's exceptional ability to integrate into larger consumer goods corporations while maintaining its core brand identity and cultural significance in the writing instruments industry. Under Newell's ownership, Expo has continued to innovate with new marker formulations, colors, and product offerings. This continued evolution demonstrated Expo's exceptional ability to maintain market relevance while adapting to changing writing requirements and technological advancements. The brand has expanded globally and maintained its position as one of the world's leading dry erase marker brands. This continued excellence demonstrates Expo's exceptional ability to maintain market leadership while adapting to changing writing dynamics and regulatory requirements. The brand's continued success represents a significant milestone in the evolution of writing instruments and consumer-focused office solutions.