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5 Tips for Having a Great Trade Show Display on a Budget
When you walk through a trade show event, you’ll see rows and rows of trade show displays and booth staff vying for your attention. If you want to stand out, it almost seems like you have to build the biggest, loudest trade show exhibit on the block. But, what happens if you have a small budget to work with?
The truth is that the biggest, loudest exhibit doesn’t always capture the right attention. Instead, it’s best to reserve a great space, build a customer-focused display and have highly trained staff to invite visitors in. Here are five tips for having a great trade show booth on a budget.
1. Choose your trade shows wisely
Not every trade show event is right for your business or your budget. That’s why it’s important to do your research and carefully select the shows that make sense for your business. Start by looking at the most popular shows in your industry, the people who attend and the associated costs. After narrowing down your options, think about how each trade show will help you reach your goal, whether it’s capturing qualified leads or unveiling a new product.
2. Split a booth with another exhibitor
You don’t have to go at it alone. To save money without compromising foot traffic, consider splitting a booth with another exhibitor. Ideally, the other exhibitor should be complementary to your business so that you get similar foot traffic. However, you can also split the space with a non-competitor in a different industry, such as a local business. Just be sure to separate your space so that you do not confuse visitors.
3. Design beautiful signage
Banners are an excellent way to make your brand visible from afar. You can use banners to display your logo, brand name and tagline. Also consider including specific information to make it easier for people to find you like your booth number. Aside from banners, there are other cost-effective visual tactics you can incorporate. For example, a digital display shares a lot of information without requiring a salesperson.
4. Create informative marketing materials
Rather than just handing out business cards and brochures, provide visitors with informative marketing materials. As an example, if you sell wedding flowers, you can give users handouts that contain information on caring for flowers, the best flowers for each season, the meaning behind flowers and so on. This information is helpful and useful to your audience, plus easy to carry around.
5. Be mindful about your branded swag
People love getting trade show giveaways, but be thoughtful about your branded swag. You don’t want to waste money on cheap trinkets just for the purpose of handing something out. This is a waste of money. Instead, it’s better to spend a little more upfront and give your prospects promotional products with real value. This will have more of an impact on attendees.
Trade shows are an effective way to expand your reach and introduce your brand to new audiences. If you’re working on a tight budget, you do have options. Contact IGE to discuss our approach to custom trade show design – we work with all types of budgets!