NY Tent Acquires Stamford Tent, Forging Northeast Event Rental Giant
The strategic acquisition of 70-year-old Stamford Tent by New York Tent's parent company signals a major consolidation in the booming Northeast event market.
New York Tent Acquires Stamford Tent, Forging Northeast Event Rental Giant
NEW YORK, NY – January 12, 2026 – In a landmark move for the Northeast event services industry, New York Tent announced today that its parent company, Aspire Event Group, LLC, has acquired the venerable Stamford Tent & Event Services. The deal unites two of the region's most respected names in event rentals, creating a formidable entity with an expanded geographic footprint and a significantly larger service capacity.
While the acquisition signals a major consolidation, both New York Tent and Stamford Tent will continue to operate independently from their existing headquarters. This strategy is designed to ensure seamless continuity for a loyal base of clients and employees, preserving the distinct brand identities that each company has spent decades building. The move strengthens New York Tent’s already robust position in the greater New York market while launching Aspire Event Group’s strategic expansion into the lucrative New England event scene.
A Strategic Consolidation in a Surging Market
This acquisition arrives at a pivotal moment for the U.S. event rental industry, which has not only recovered but is now thriving in the post-pandemic landscape. The market, valued at nearly $8 billion in 2023, is on a steep growth trajectory, with some projections estimating it will exceed $60 billion globally by 2034. This explosive growth is fueled by a resurgence in corporate events, large-scale public celebrations, and a robust wedding market, where tented outdoor ceremonies have seen a nearly 30% increase in popularity.
Against this backdrop of high demand, the industry is undergoing a significant transformation characterized by consolidation. Regional powerhouses are being formed, often with the backing of private equity groups keen to capitalize on the efficiencies of scale. The New York Tent and Stamford Tent union is a textbook example of this trend, creating a single, coordinated entity that can serve a vast territory from New Jersey and Long Island through New York, Connecticut, and into the rest of New England. This expanded reach positions the combined operation to compete directly with other major players in the Northeast, such as Party Rental Ltd. and the recently merged Bright Event Rentals.
“This acquisition allows us to better serve our clients while expanding our reach into New England,” said David Tannenbaum, Owner and CEO of New York Tent. Tannenbaum highlighted the value of Stamford Tent's long-standing reputation, adding, “Stamford Tent has built an exceptional reputation over more than 70 years, and we are excited to build on that legacy while continuing to innovate in the event services industry.”
Passing the Torch of a 70-Year Legacy
The acquisition also marks the end of an era with the planned retirement of Stamford Tent President and CEO Steve Frost. A titan of the industry, Frost has dedicated more than five decades of his life to the business, joining in 1967 and taking the helm as President in 1990. Under his leadership, a small local company with just six employees grew into one of the most respected tent rental firms in the nation, earning numerous international awards for its creativity and professionalism.
Stamford Tent, founded in 1953, built its brand on a foundation of quality, integrity, and exceptional service, cultivating client relationships that have spanned over 40 years. The company has been the trusted partner for countless high-profile events, providing elegant structures for the Tribeca Film Festival, major non-profit galas, and exclusive corporate functions. This deep well of experience and goodwill is a critical asset in the acquisition.
Reflecting on the transition, Frost expressed his confidence in the company's future. “After more than five decades in the event industry, I’m proud to see Stamford Tent enter its next chapter with Aspire and New York Tent,” he stated. “This partnership ensures continuity of our culture, values, and commitment to excellence while providing expanded resources and opportunities for our clients and team.”
That continuity is further cemented by the decision that key leadership will remain. Tim Frost will continue in his role as Operations and Used Equipment Sales Manager, and Brian Rieke will stay on as General Manager, ensuring that the institutional knowledge and client-focused ethos of Stamford Tent are carried forward.
Enhanced Capabilities for a New Era of Events
For event planners, corporate clients, and private individuals, the merger promises a future of enhanced capabilities and streamlined solutions. The combined inventory of New York Tent, founded in 1994, and Stamford Tent creates one of the most comprehensive equipment offerings in the region. This allows the group to tackle more ambitious and complex projects, providing everything from basic party tents to massive temporary structures for festivals and long-term installations.
The leadership of the continuing Stamford Tent team sees immense potential in the partnership. “Partnering with New York Tent creates new opportunities for our employees and enhanced offerings for our clients,” said Tim Frost. Brian Rieke echoed this sentiment, adding, “This partnership allows us to expand our reach, resources, and product offerings while continuing the innovation Stamford is known for.”
By operating the two brands independently under the Aspire Event Group umbrella, the company aims to offer the best of both worlds: the personalized service and local expertise of established brands, combined with the logistical power, vast inventory, and financial stability of a larger organization. Clients of Stamford Tent can expect the same dedicated service from a familiar team, while clients of both companies will gain access to a broader suite of products and services. This strategic combination of legacy and innovation positions the newly expanded group to redefine the standards of event production across the Northeast for years to come.
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