Organizing A Trade Show- What Goes Into It?

How to organize a trade show - The Local Brand

Trade show

A trade show is one of the mediums by which businesses can further promote their products and services. For this reason, it would be a great idea to organize one. However, this is not as easy as it seems. In fact, it can be overwhelming. If not carefully planned, this can be costly and be a waste of time for the organizer and exhibitors.

Organizing a trade show can take several months to plan, though it only lasts for a few days. So, an organizer should make sure that it has a fast turnover, in order to be successful. To know how to go about it, there are certain factors that one should consider.

Important Things to Consider When Organizing a Trade Show

• Venue 

In planning a trade show, it is crucial to choose the proper venue. This requires a lot of research. Both exhibitors and attendees should prefer a location that is accessible, somewhere in the center of the city. It should be near transportation facilities and should have more than enough parking. A great venue will leave a lasting impression on all the parties involved. With this, it can be said that a venue can either make or break a trade show.

• Space 

The amount of space you need for your trade show depends on the number of exhibitors you plan to invite and the number of attendants you expect to visit. There are large venues that can accommodate hundreds of exhibitors and there are small ones designed for fewer exhibitors. It would not look appropriate to have only a few exhibitors in a large venue or many exhibitors crammed in a small location. Perhaps the most ideal venue is one that can house any number of participants. This way, you can adjust to the size you need.

• Theme

In conceptualizing a trade show, one should think about a theme that most attendees and potential customers would like to frequent. This also depends on the timing of the exhibit. If it is scheduled before the holiday months, this can feature a holiday gift giving theme, with products ranging from clothes to bags and accessories. A trade show can also be industry-specific. It can be all about appliances or gadgets or whatever people would be interested in.

• Staff 

It is important for an organizer to choose reliable staff to help all through the event. They should be able to assist attendees in what they need such as looking for certain booths.

• Equipment 

The organizer should make sure that audio/visual equipment is working in advance so that it would not cause any problems during the event.

• Advertise 

It is best to let people know, beforehand, that you are organizing a trade show. Invite clients and suppliers through social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter so that they can keep the dates free and they can attend. Also, mention the big discounts and giveaways.

Conclusion

Organizing a trade show can be challenging and will definitely involve a lot of hard work. When it turns out to be successful, an organizer can earn a good reputation, which would earn the trust of more exhibitors and the interest of more attendees.

Eric Blair is a trade show organizer and avid blogger. Eric recommends www.Certain.com for individuals who are looking to host a trade show with maximum efficiency. 
Featured images: License: Creative Commons image source
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