Trade Shows
Participating in trade or business shows can be a tremendous benefit to your company or a total waste of time. The key to success is in the preparation and setting realistic goals.
Pierre has participated in over 100 shows from both a customers and vendor (exhibitor) point of view. Out of this experience he has created a one-day seminar to help your business be successful. Main questions addressed in the seminar are:
- How to pick the shows which are most appropriate for your business;
- Planning your time according to the size of the show and its importance to your business;
- What to look for while participating in the show (new merchandise, new trends, special deals, new colours, what your competitors buy, etc.);
- How to: use the show catalogues, gather business cards, refrain from accumulating hand outs you do not need, etc.;
- How to deal with suppliers by providing examples/models of: "win-win" situations, terms of business, payment terms, return policies, re-order availability, guarantees, warranties, availability of goods, protected territory, volume rebate, displayers, POP material etc.;
- Setting a budget and sticking to it;
- How to price new merchandise;
- Costs of attending shows and expected returns on this investment.
Too many companies view attending shows as a social event. While it is nice to see old friends again, you need to have a purpose for your participation and the discipline to follow your plan. Shows can be very profitable but they can also become an unneccesary event.
For more information on how to plan for your upcoming show, contact Pierre by email: pierre@retailsuccess.ca
