Trade shows and exhibits are a great way to match meeting attendees with the suppliers they need to do business. It also helps to defray the costs of a meeting or event for the host. Participation in trade shows and events gives a company the opportunity to market its products and services using arguably the most effective method available, face-to-face communication. Event marketing is a vital piece of a company’s larger corporate marketing plan but as an event planner it’s critical to keep both your exhibitors, attendees and meeting host happy when planning a trade show. An effectively designed trade show exhibit can do just that.
Planning meal breaks and social events inside your exhibit area is a sure way to maximize your meeting space while enhancing your sponsor’s exposure. Here are 3 events that you can plan inside your trade show or exhibition space.
1. Standing breaks: Using table tops in the exhibit hall is a great way of keeping your attendees engaged with the sponsors.
2. Breakfast & lunches: Many times attendees are arriving at different times to eat. A casual buffet inside the hall allows folks to eat at their leisure and continue their interaction with the exhibitors.
3. Receptions: Companies are willing to sponsor receptions if they have access to their target audience. If you can provide them with a prime exhibit location and host the reception in front of their booth it can benefit everyone.
These events require much less space than events with full table settings while facilitating better networking opportunities. This technique will also drive continued traffic to your exhibitors and keep your sponsors satisfied.
In addition, as a planner you will save space, time and money by keeping your attendees within the same area and thus minimizing the need for room turns, additional staffing and conference facilities. John Cotter, Vice President of Meeting Operations of American Meetings, Inc. (AMI), adds “If these tips are followed with each event that is hosted in an exhibition space, it will surely make the event run smoother and allow more traffic to pass through each exhibitor.” Using these tips for trade show strategy will increase the effectiveness of your event, reduce costs and make all your stakeholders happy.
Happy Planning!
For more information, or help with a meeting or event, contact bd@americanmeetings.com or call American Meetings, Inc. @ 866-337-7799
