Are you planning to attend a coffee trade show? Joining trade shows is an excellent way to network and expand the horizons of your business. It allows you to shape your identity brand and creates a good lasting impression on your consumers.
However, you won’t achieve your expected return of investment without the right preparation. Yes, getting the ideal booth spot, possessing compelling expo booth designs, and maximizing your engagement with others is essential. But there are far more important things you should also consider to be successful at the event.
Feeling overwhelmed? Fret not, for we’re here to help you! Here are some tips you can follow to experience a meaningful coffee exhibition. Check them out!
Research About the Event
Are you going to attend a trade show that’s mostly attended by manufacturers, business owners, and people who work in some parts of the coffee enterprise (business-to-business events)? Or you prefer a festival where it’s open for coffee enthusiasts, consumers, and the general public (business-to-consumer)?
Note that there’s a huge difference between B2B and B2C trade show events. So you have to ask yourself which of the two is most suitable for your business needs. Do you need more training experience and knowledge for your field? Or are you after for personal-level services and retail sales?
Once you figured out who or what your business is appealing to, then it’s time to work on the hows. By being focused on your goals, you can determine the ideal business framework and pin down the materials you need to bring.
Know Your Booth Space and Surroundings
It’s essential to check everything you’ll likely need when registering for booth space. Don’t take anything for granted.
First, don’t shy away to ask the event organizers the following:
- Do you have access to electrical outlets? If yes, will it require a plug converter for your machine?
- Can you get access to a water supply?
- Do you have to pay for additional fees for your water and electrical needs?
- What’s the event policy on wet/dry waste?
- What’s the measurement of the available space, and when can you visit it personally?
The listed questions may seem trivial, but they’ll help you get the space you prefer without stress and last-minute expenses.
Next, create a general layout of your entire booth space. Plan the space allocation of your furniture, equipment, products, brochures, and other booth displays. Remember, the less cluttered your place is, the more welcoming it will be.
Then, know your surroundings. See where you’ll be assigned, which vendors are beside you, and identify in-house events to be held at the exhibition.
Lastly, be familiar with the entrances, exits, bathrooms, and parking areas. Knowing the whereabouts of the venue will reduce unnecessary long treks and wandering on the scheduled event.
Organize Mini-events at Your Booth Stand
Plan for mini-events at your booth stand to attract more attendees. You can schedule product samplings, equipment demonstrations, or even how-to workshops. Just don’t forget to promote them. How?
- Have your planned events posted near your stand.
- Outline the scheduled demonstrations together with the time they ought to start.
- Make sure that your signage is big and apparent enough to any passerby.
What you need to note is that your booth stand isn’t in a vacuum. You should be receptive to the major events occurring throughout the venue. It would be better to plan yours shortly after a large event or during a lull moment.
Showcase Your Retail Products, Merchandise Items, and Swag Bags
This is best if you’ll attend a consumer-focused event. Generally, people would want to buy something here and there, so take the chance to get more sales. But if you don’t sell retail items, giving out swag bags or merchandise items is the fastest way to get your brand noticed.
Network With Other Exhibitors
If you think the only connections you can make in the event are with customers, then think again. Getting to know other business stalls, especially your neighboring ones, can be a beneficial resource. How?
- You can compare and contrast business experiences and information. You’ll realize the things you need to stand out or up in your field.
- You can learn a lot and get additional industry insights.
- You can even gain new friends! If you put great efforts, your peers can be your source of support and inspiration.
What’s more, your attendees will appreciate your new connections. Since you know what businesses are in the event, you can make recommendations whenever you’re hands are full. Other vendors will recognize these gestures, too, and, hopefully, extend the same favor to you.
Take Away
Exhibiting can be a daunting experience, yet they’re considered an excellent investment to get your brand noticed by a massive market. Whether you’re a newbie or not, following our provided tips will make your trade show event more effective and less stressful. We wish you good luck!
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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