Trade And Consumer Shows: Where To Take Your Portable Exhibits In Austin
When you’re building a marketing strategy, it’s important to decide which type of convention to exhibit at: trade shows or consumer shows. You might think they’re more or less the same thing, but there are some important distinctions to consider. Are you trying to make contacts and stay current on the latest developments in your field? Or are you looking to make some sales and expand your client base? The answer to that question will determine which type of show is appropriate for your business.
Trade Shows: Industry Connections And Big Sales
A trade show is an opportunity to make contacts within your industry. Selling does happen at these conventions, especially to purchasers who need to order inventory to sell at their own stores. Some enormous deals can be made at these conventions, so be prepared to bring your A-game. Many peer-to-peer meetings happen at trade shows: CEOs making big business deals, department heads coordinating large purchases, etc. It’s important to be prepared to make a splash.
Of course, big profits mean a bigger investment, meaning that you’ll need to bring more than just a small portable exhibit. Austin trade shows are filled with larger, more complex displays to show off businesses to their best advantage. At these shows, upper-level management should staff your display; people who are empowered to make big decisions about where and how your products will be sold. Following through is also extremely important, since most big sales will be closed after the show.
Bring Portable Exhibits To Austin Consumer Shows
A consumer-targeted expo is a lot like a temporary shopping mall. Vendors gather to display their products or services, looking to make some sales. These are often a lower-pressure environment than a trade show, since the attendees don’t need to speak with the decision makers in your company. Additionally, the cost of exhibiting at these shows is typically a little lower, since all you’ll need is a portable exhibit. Austin consumer shows are generally made up of smaller booths, unless you’re selling a large product such as furniture or appliances.
As for staffing, you usually won’t need to send upper management, but you do want your best sales staff to go to these shows. Not only will they be the best at selling the products, but a good salesperson will make sure people remember your company so as to maximize repeat business. Make sure to send plenty of business cards and other printed material so that customers won’t forget whom they bought the product from.
Depending on the size and type of your company, either of these shows could be appropriate for you. If you run a smaller business or are just looking to sell directly to consumers, you should definitely take your portable exhibit to Austin consumer shows. However, if you’re after larger deals or major industry contacts, don’t miss the opportunity to go to an industry-specific trade show. The investment, both in time and money, will be larger, but the payoff will be worth it.