Retail Trade shows are invaluable when it comes to growing a business, they offer many opportunities to connect with a variety of retailers and suppliers all under one roof! However, visiting trade shows doesn’t need to be stressful, follow these top tips to ensure you have a positive experience.
Planning your trade show visit
Check you know the address of the event and how long it will take to get there.
Plan in enough time (include travel and refreshments breaks) so you’re not rushing and don’t leave feeling you’ve missed something.
Some trade shows will issue floor plans and exhibitor directories before the show so, if possible, plan the exhibitors you wish to see and arrange appointments to be more time efficient.
Pre-register for the trade show if necessary/possible and to avoid delay on arrival, have your ticket, badge, or paperwork ready.
On arriving at the trade show
If you're attending a trade show as a group, make sure you organise a place to meet if you get split up.
Familiarise yourself with the nearest fire exits and evacuation policy.
Check the closing time of the show, the event venue, and any of the refreshments and lunch facilities.
If you are planning to attend any seminars, presentations, or workshops, check the timing schedule and location.
Before you start looking at product ranges, complete one lap of the exhibition hall(s) - this will allow you to get your bearings and locate facilities, give you an overview of the product on offer, and an idea of the size and scale of the show.
Finally, make sure you’re dressed suitably for the occasion, take into consideration the amount of walking you’ll be doing, that the exhibition halls may be spread out, upstairs, downstairs, or outdoors, and that the venue may or may not be air-conditioned.
AIS trade show solutions
At Associated Independent Stores, we host our very own INDX trade shows throughout the year, boasting an extensive calendar of shows from fashion to homeware products. Alternatively, if you’re looking to hire space for an exhibition, event or conference, we have Cranmore Park which is a state-of-the-art exhibition centre. For more information, contact us today by calling 0121 711 2200 or emailing membership@aistores.co.uk.
