MARKETING SERVICES

Exhibit Design

• A well-designed exhibit is so effective at cutting through the trade show clutter and getting your message to your target audience.  The average attendee will probably spend from 2 – 4 minutes at each booth, therefore your lasting impression to give you the edge over your competitor, needs to be clear and concise, accentuating product positives.   

Pre-Show and At-Show Promotions

• The average attendee will come to the show with a pre-determined idea of approximately 75% of which companies that they would like to visit.  In order to have your name on the list, you need to give them a reason to come by your booth by making contact with them 1 – 2 weeks prior to the show.
• Therefore, it is just as important to create something from your booth that will increase the number of attendees visiting your booth during the show.

Booth Staff Training

• When picking staff members to man your booth at the show, be careful to include the ones that are effective communicators, show passion and enthusiasm for your products and are very educated about your company and your products.  They need to quickly provide information about company origin, production processes, shelf life and shipping methods, etc.  They should also be schooled on booth etiquette and best practices to make visitors feel welcome.

Lead Management

• Almost 80% of the leads generated at a show are never followed.  Trade shows can be a very effective tool to create qualified leads that can create sales.  Have a plan in place for following up on leads received at the show before you even get to the show so they can be handled appropriately and promptly.

Be Prepared

• Give thoughtful consideration as to the items that you will need to pack for an effective show and make a check list to be used in the packing process. (This list can be used for other shows, as well.)  Be sure to bring more business cards, company brochures/catalogs, product literature, price sheets, recipes, serving utensils, etc. than you think you will need.  There are no guarantees that the show facility will have access to copiers or be located near any copy centers or grocery stores.  You may want to throw in a roll of paper towels for unexpected spills or messes.
• If you have rented electrical hook up, be sure to pack an extension cord.
• If you have lots of boxes to bring into the show, a small flat bed or hand truck can save strain on your back and extra steps.
• Don’t wait until the last minute to get packed in case something unexpected occurs.  It is also advisable to get to show set-up early to allow time for any changes or correct unforeseen problems.

CONTACT US
Virginia Food and Beverage Expo
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
PO Box 1163
Richmond VA 23218

The Virginia Food and Beverage Expo
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Greater Richmond Convention Center • Exhibit Hall C • 300 N. 5th Street, Richmond, Virginia