Planning a successful Trade show can be an overwhelming process especially when businesses are at stake. At Business Expo Center we understand the value of Trade shows. Therefore, we have hosted several successful trade shows in the past 10 years. Furthermore, our years of experience has taught us that planning for a Tradeshow is quite a formidable task that requires preparation and a hefty team. As a result, there are several ways to start.
To help ensure the success of your upcoming Trade Show, check out these Ten Important Tips to consider when planning for a Trade show.
1. Plan
First of all, ask yourself why you are hosting a Trade show? What products are showcasing and who would be interested in attending. Create a plan a year in advance to ensure sufficient time to research attendees, secure vendors, confirm space, and create a day of execution plan. This requires multiple deadlines and a specified teams to coordinate, design, and sell before and day of.
2. Program
Once you decide on your market, ask yourself what type of event would you want. How does event success look like for you?
Decide on the type of Trade show you are interested in hosting and what type of attendance you are looking to have. Research attendees and create a plan to reach them.
For example, ifhosting Music Trade Show, what would attendees what to have?
- Entertainment: What type of entertainment will you be providing? Including Live Bands, Spoken-work, painters, .. etc
- Guest Speakers: Will there be a keynote speaker and what do they require? Including stage, podium, microphone(s), and technology (For Presentation use).
3. Site and Venue
How many guests are you expecting to attend? What type of space will you need?
Booth space, technology space, multiple rooms (break out space), Type of parking, size of the stage
4. Date and Time
Be strategic about the day and time of the event and learn about what other events are being hosted at around the same time. Always confirm availability.
5. Finances
Form a budget and indicate anticipated costs and revenue prior. Partner with sponsors to ensure the success of the Trade show that will offset costs.
6. Find Vendors
Also, confirm and find the right vendors for your event including attendees, catering, technology, entertainment, decorations, security, and more. Ask the Business Expo Center for our services and recommendations.
7. Set up
Furthermore, be sure to work with the Business Expo Center to draw up an ideal layout and set-up plan for yourself and attendees. Plan set-up and clean up times in advance to ensure sufficient time prior to the event.
Including attendees’ booths, catering, carpeting, lighting, fixtures, furniture, technology, etc.
8. Marketing
Build a marketing plan to promote the event before, during, and after.
Advertise using website listings, flyers, business cards, banners, online ads, etc.
See how Business Expo Center may advertise your event.
9. Coordinate Workers
Designate responsibilities for your team and the Business Expo Center staff prior to the Trade show to ensure efficient processes during the event as well as pre-show set up and post-show cleanup.
10. Follow up
Look back on the successes and challenges of the event and stay connected with your attendees by following up.
Use this information to start planning for the next Trade Show!
Pro-tip: Always plan in advance and stay ready for changes. Likewise, be sure to partner with experience teams to gain insight on how to overcome challenges. Also, if you are running behind on planning, don’t fret! Work with partners such as Business Expo Center to build a plan of success and utilize trusted recommendations. Happy planning, we are here for you!
See you at your next Trade Show!
Be sure to book with us today.
