As an innovative flexible packaging supplier, we know how important trade shows are. Exhibitions can be your most powerful marketing tool. They provide a platform to promote new products to a targeted trade audience, whether that be pet products, sports nutrition, food, confectionery or something else.
Packaging buyers are facing more challenges than ever, which is why they need to keep up to date with the latest developments, connect with suppliers and learn from industry leaders.
From global brands and major retailers to innovative start-ups and exciting new enterprises, the shows we attend are always buzzing with dedicated buyers, eager to find out how your packaging solutions can revitalise their brand and stand out from the crowd.
But how do you get the best out of events and packaging trade shows? We’ve put together a quick guide to help you.
Be aware of why you’re attending the show
There must be a reason why you’ve decided on this show in particular. Are you looking for new ideas? Are you considering a move to a new packaging supplier? Or are you simply scouting out the business? Once you decide what it is you want to achieve from the show, write down the questions you crave the answers for. Most businesses will be happy to explain anything that may be playing on your mind in terms of supply chain issues, stock maintenance and more.
Schedule your day to maximise your participation
Exhibitions are huge events and if you’re not careful, your time could be zapped away and before you know it, it’s time to leave. Having a look at the schedule and jotting down a few notes can ensure you get around to everything you need to see. This can include any lectures which will no doubt have invaluable information on their agenda.
Seek out the people you need to see the most
Scheduling your day is important, so making sure you have those people on your radar is essential. Amongst the lecturers and businesses you’d like to visit, it’s important to visit individuals that will give you something extra to take home with you and put into action. Scheduling these into your day will make sure you’ll be able to visit them.
Make sure you raise awareness of your business
Visiting a business at an event makes them aware of who you are, what you’re about and what it is you’re looking for. This means, that when it comes down to purchasing products or starting your journey with them, they’re fully versed in everything about you and your business and they’ll be able to tailor their approach to their sales pitch. This is a win/win for both sides!
Be prepared to (finally!) meet in person
After a year and a half of no face-to-face contact most businesses and business people had to endure, it’s now, more than ever, important to meet your potential suppliers or customers face-to-face. Chatting off-the-cuff with someone can help you gain insights into their demeanour, their work ethics, their passion and their overall drive to help someone in your position. This triggers a gut feeling – but don’t forget – it works both ways!
Try out or launch new products
Trade shows are a good place to introduce a new product or service. Being able to explain your offering in person and answer questions is ideal if your product is innovative and it helps to gain knowledge from other industry professionals who may be able to advise or help you iron out any teething problems.
Build your networking database
Meeting with potential customers at an exhibition helps you to start building your network. Having a database of industry professionals that can answer questions is invaluable and this is true whether you’re a seasoned pro who’s been in business for many years, or whether you’re a startup. Gaining contacts is a sure-fire way to gaining traction through word of mouth and other avenues so get talking!
This year, we’re heading to Zoomark International in Bologna on 10-12 November! We’d love to see you there. You can read more about it in our blog here very soon so watch this space!
If your brand wants to invest in quality packaging, we will guide you through the entire print process. In addition, we are providing recommendations along the way to improve efficiency, reduce costs and add untold value to the end product.
Contact us on +44 (0) 161 440 7302 or follow this link to complete our contact form.
