Posted by Jessica Joly on Fri, Apr 08, 2011 @ 10:33 AM
When it's time for a new display questions like... How can we fit this in our budget? Will it be done on time before our next show, or launch? How do we create a RFP? And who do we seek out for bids…? Can make the thought of building a new tradeshow display quite exhausting. Over the next month, continue to check back, for I will help alleviate some of these pains by answering the above questions and more. Starting with when do you know it’s time for a new display.
1. The display appears to come straight out of the late 80’s and if you’re “lucky” early 90’s. People notice and wonder do they have anything new to offer, or just the same old, same old? If it’s worth spending the money to take a booth to the show…it’s worth utilizing your booth to make the correct statement.
2. Material handling costs average about $15k with the old 20,000lbs crated walls. Fabric is considerably lighter in weight and will likely last you longer, with less chance of damage in shipping and handling. Another light weight and versatile material used today is aluminum. And because wood is still neccessary in parts of the production don't be afraid of it, just attempt to use less and lighter options.
3. Every show, new graphics and major refurbishments are being made to try and hide the old brand with the new brand. From my experience and based on the attendance of 4 shows a year with a 20x40 display this can average about $17k a year.
4. This should be a no brainer, but if your company has purchased other brands under their umbrella over the past few years. Now is the time to highlight the full breadth of your company.
5. Finally, if your target audience has changed, your display must change too.
Check back next Friday for tips on how to create an RFP.
Posted by Jessica Joly on Mon, Feb 21, 2011 @ 02:13 PM
Custom portable displays are a great way to make a large presence at a small show. Many regional and distribution shows only allot a 10x10 space for exhibitors. But don’t let this handcuff your creativity. Whether it is your companies first time exhibiting at a specific show, or product launch… Standing out in the crowd of skirted table tops and curtained back walls can assist largely in your sales initiatives.
A customized solutions branded to reach your audience can be cost efficient and profitable. Ask your display house what will work best for your needs and budget. Remember portable does not mean the display needs to be off the shelf.
Posted by Jessica Joly on Wed, Feb 09, 2011 @ 11:26 AM
Here we are again… Diesel prices on the rise looking to break new record highs. Ultimately, affecting your trade show budget… Here are a few tips to keep costs low and bosses happy.
1. Ask your exhibit house, or storage facility when they plan to ship the exhibit to show site. Then be sure to have all your tradeshow products sent to them for shipment along with the exhibit properties. This way you are paying for one shipment AND avoid minimum material handling fees for small show-site deliveries.
2. Plan ahead. Some logistics companies will provide fixed quotes. Meaning if the fuel surcharge goes up, your cost of shipping will remain untouched. Be sure to negotiate this prior to setting up the shipment. Display houses often have these relationships with logistics providers in place, but it never hurts to confirm.
3. Think lighter load. This doesn't mean you shouldn't bring the entire tradeshow booth. Ask to review your crate list with your exhibit house. To save on drayage and shipping, remove any uncessary items on a per show basis.
4. Drivers will sometimes wait up to 15 hrs in the marshalling yard to pick up freight, averaging $75 an hour. Many logistic companies who specialize in trade show transportation will negotiate unlimited wait time. Don’t be scared away by the slightly higher quote upfront.
5. Finally, bear with the times. Fuel is unfortunately an unpredictable commodity. It is best to focus on goals that prove ROI and reasons why you are at the trade show in the first place. Lead generation, new product launch etc...