Questions I'm asked about Trade Show Printing
If you’ve ever been to a trade show such as a local home
& garden show, I’m sure you were dazzled by the large displays, flowers,
rocks and even small houses inside a very large facility. This type of show draws thousands of people
and the cost to participate can be very high to a vendor. Each industry, it seems, has their own trade show
to highlight the products and services of their members. The size and scope of the trade show will
determine the items you need for display.
Here are a few questions I have answered about these materials.
This is my first trade show. What materials do I need to get started? Larger shows will require you to provide tables, chairs and all display items. The only thing offered will be power. Smaller trade shows will have a 6’ table and a couple of chairs and you have to ask for power to be provided. For the larger show you’ll need a full background display usually 8’ to 10’ wide, tables with a table cloth, retractable banners (either floor or table top), some type of literature display, and items to hand out to prospects. These large shows can also accommodate displays of your product. Here’s where I suggest you map out your area to make sure you have enough room to move and show prospects what you have to offer. The items above can be used in smaller shows depending on the size of your space.
This is my first trade show. What materials do I need to get started? Larger shows will require you to provide tables, chairs and all display items. The only thing offered will be power. Smaller trade shows will have a 6’ table and a couple of chairs and you have to ask for power to be provided. For the larger show you’ll need a full background display usually 8’ to 10’ wide, tables with a table cloth, retractable banners (either floor or table top), some type of literature display, and items to hand out to prospects. These large shows can also accommodate displays of your product. Here’s where I suggest you map out your area to make sure you have enough room to move and show prospects what you have to offer. The items above can be used in smaller shows depending on the size of your space.
How do I look professional but save money
on my display? If you are in a
larger show you can reduce the size of your background or get creative. There are dozens of new types, sizes and
materials for displays. The can hang,
have multiple pieces to give it a 3D effect, or curve in around your area. You don’t have to stay with the same old
thing – get creative!
I’m on a budget. What items do I have to have for a trade
show? I usually suggest, instead of
a large background display, to get a banner that goes across the top of your
area. 6’ to 8’ wide and proportionate
height. You’ll be able to hang it up on
frames provided by the trade show host. Also, smaller
shows will provide a table and white cloth, so buy a table runner instead of
the cloth. You still have your logo on
the table at less cost. I also suggest
you choose either the floor or the table top retractable banner. The table top is less expensive and can be
just as effective if your message is good. And last, let’s talk about the items to hand
out. You need something with your logo
and information on it that your prospect will keep so to contact you at a
later date. I recommend flyers with
services/products that include a coupon or incentive to contact you. Memo pads and pens are also very effective. If you are on a budget I don’t recommend
buying cheap promotional items that have nothing to do with your industry. Buy chocolate instead!
These ideas are props to make your space attractive and draw
your prospect to you. It’s up to you to
do the rest. I’m disappointed when I
visit trade shows and see vendors behind the tables, sitting and staring at
their phones, instead of engaging prospective customers. Too bad, it’s such a pretty display.
For more information
on trade show materials please give me a call.
Donna Beheydt, 330.922.1765. Idea
consultations are free!
