General

Want to learn more about how you can promote your brand at the next trade show? Trade Show Display Pros can make your booth an eye-catching hub of activity. Just use our impressive digital trade show displays !

A lot of businesses view trade shows, conferences, and other industry events as important. Why? Because these events can generate new contacts, leads, sales, and partnerships. But to make any of these events a success, you’ll need a booth of some kind.

As the top U.S. trade show banner supplier, we often get the question: “Should I rent or own my trade show booth?” The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, so let’s look at the pros and cons of each option.

Renting A Trade Show Booth

Advantages:

1. Flexibility: You can rent a booth that matches your brand’s image. And if you have to change your company's look or logo, it’s easy to update a rental.
2. Fresh Look: You’ll steer clear of old-fashioned displays because rentable booths always have an up-to-date look.
3. Flexibility: A rental booth can be easily tailored to meet the requirements of the event, whether it’s a big trade show or a small gathering.
4. Larger Presence: If you rent multiple booths you can set them up in different places to ensure larger reach.
5. Personalization: A rental can be fitted with brand-specific graphics and furniture.

Drawbacks

1. More Costly: In the long run, renting booths will cost more than owning one.
2. May Be Damaged: Rental booths may display signs they’ve been used before. And if you damage your rental, you’ll have to compensate the company.
3. Booking Challenges: Since you don't own the booth, you might have trouble getting it, especially if it’s during the busy season. Plan ahead and develop relationships with trustworthy vendors.
4. Hidden Fees: Renting furniture and extras can cost more than you think. Also, these items may not be available when you need them.

Owning A Trade Show Booth

Advantages:

1. Complete Control: When you own a booth, you can make it fit your brand. Plus, it will be ready whenever you need it.
2. Economic If Used Regularly: If your company goes to shows often, buying a booth can save you money in the long run. In most cases, you would break even by using a display twice and save money with every use after that.
3. Brand Consistency: A well-branded booth that stays the same is more memorable. Consider this if your goal is to create a strong presence at every event.

Drawbacks:

1. Big Upfront Payment: Buying a booth can be a large upfront investment.
2. Not As Adaptable: As your business grows and trends shift, changing your booth design can cost a lot.
3. More Responsibilities: When you own a booth, you have to account for storage, shipping, and maintenance.

Make The Right Choice

Choosing to buy or rent a trade show booth can be hard, and your decision will definitely play a role in determining the results you achieve.

If you’re having a hard time choosing, consult Trade Show Display Pros. We have been in the business for decades, so we’ll be able to provide helpful insights. And when you need high-quality banner stands or eye-catching banner walls, we’ll be happy to show you our wide selection. All of our products can be tailored to suit your needs!

At any trade show, excitement is in the air. Still, you need to make your booth stand out, otherwise it won’t get much attention. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to make your booth stand out. Incorporating booth-traffic magnets, for example, should yield good results.

In this post, we discuss everything you need to know about booth-traffic magnets so you can use them effectively. Let’s begin!

What Is A Trade Show Traffic Magnet?

Fun games, events, or experiences are all example of booth-traffic magnets. They draw trade show attendees in and encourage them to check out what you’re offering. And when they’re used in coordination with effective digital trade show displays, your booth is sure to be a success.

The best traffic magnets are interactive or immersive, and they should align with your brand’s values and goals.

But how are you to know if your magnets are effective? Just gauge how much traffic you’re getting. If you’re not satisfied with the numbers you’re seeing, go back to the drawing board. You’ll come up with something good eventually!

Why Use Trade Show Traffic Magnets?

Here’s why trade show traffic magnets are essential:

• They’ll help your brand stand out and be more recognizable.
• They’ll encourage trade show visitors to view your space.
• They’ll generate higher-quality leads that are more likely to turn into conversions.
• You’ll get more bang for your buck.
• You’ll distinguish your brand from the competition.

Popular And Effective Traffic Magnets

1. Live Product Demos: Draw in a crowd by showcasing your goods or services. Folks want a hands-on experience. Give them one!
2. Social Media Integration: Use photo booths or social media walls and encourage attendees to share their experiences.
3. Touchscreens: Visitors can watch videos, take quizzes, or get information about your products.
4. Virtual Reality (VR) or Augmented Reality (AR): With this cutting-edge tech, booth attendees can get a feel for your products, even if they only exist in the digital world. Advertise that you have VR or AR on your display banner stands.
5. Gamification: Use challenges or games. They’ll encourage friendly competition and prompt visitors to interact with what you’re offering.
6. Personalized Experiences: Offer one-on-one consultations or customized product recommendations. These make customers feel important!

Things To Think About When Picking A Trade Show Traffic Magnet

Tips for choosing the right traffic magnets:

• Pick activities that align with your’s brand image and marketing goals.
• Monitor the effectiveness of magnets with KPIs and analytics tools.
• Understand what appeals to your target audience.
• Think about cost-effectiveness and the ROI of different options.
• Use one-of-a-kind activities to give your booth a clear advantage.
• Use AI, VR, AR, or other new tech to create memorable experiences.
• Make sure your chosen activity fits well with your booth setup.
• Add games that generate excitement and friendly rivalries.

Use The Best Booth-Traffic Magnets For Maximum Effect

To choose the right magnets, you need to know your audience and industry, but you also need to know the event and your budget. Stay up to date with emerging trends or consult professionals when you need insights.

And if trade show displays are what you’re after, get in touch with Trade Show Display Pros. We offer a wide collection of trade show displays, and we have something for every event. The products we sell are sure to leave lasting impressions. Plus, they’ll work well with whatever trade show booth magnets you use!

Banner stands are a classic yet top choice for any business or group wishing to present their brand, products, or services in an eye-catching, fashionable manner. They come in various shapes and sizes and effectively display your messages to the audience you want to reach. The important question is, which ones are affordable and lightweight enough for your business needs? Let’s get started and explore!

Retractable Banner Stands (Pullup Banners)

Retractable banners are the most widely used and reasonably priced types. They are ideal for trade shows, conferences, and other events that must be set up and taken down quickly. They are easy to carry because of their retractable construction, which covers the banner to prevent damage while not in use. Additionally, there are double-sided variations. Retractable banners are sturdy and resistant to slight wind and movement, especially those with a sturdy base. You can add text, pictures, and designs to customize them. They also come in a range of sizes and forms.

Pop Up Banners

Pop up stands and displays are ideal for long-term use in workplaces, trade exhibitions, and other places where you want to bring attention to your business. A pop up banner can be personalized with text, images, and photos. They are available in a range of sizes. They sit lower and are rounder than pullup banners, giving them a distinctive look. Known as “golf banners,” they are mainly intended for outdoor use and have pegs to anchor them to soft ground.

Tabletop Banner Stands

Tabletop banner stands are designed to maximize the space available by resting on a table or counter. These budget-friendly stands are ideal for enhancing your display, highlighting particular products, and offering further details. Due to their compact size and light weight, they are portable.

X Banner Stands

X banner stands can be utilized for presentations inside or outside due to their X-shaped frame. Lightweight materials, including aluminum, are typically used for the frame, making setup and transportation simple. Grommets or hooks fasten the banner to the frame to easily change it to display fresh text or branding. These stands are an excellent choice for businesses that require a portable display that is simple to set up and dismantle for meetings, trade exhibitions, and other significant events.

L Banner Stands

Because they are lightweight, incredibly convenient, and simple to assemble, L banner stands are very popular. They have an aluminum pole with a snap rail system that keeps the banner wrinkle-free and upright, giving it a polished appearance. These stands work well outside.

Make Your Next Event a Memorable One!

Banner stands are a crucial component for any organization or business attempting to advertise its brand or message. Consider the stand’s size, composition, portability, and positioning to ensure that your show is sophisticated, captivating, and appealing to the people who will be seeing it. Are you preparing for an upcoming event and need reasonably priced banner stands? Take a look at Trade Show Display Pros’ excellent selection.

Using well-lit products to attract attention is the primary goal of exhibit and trade show lighting. Proper lighting at a trade fair may significantly affect how people perceive your brand. Visitors will remain engaged and want to learn more about your company in a warm, imaginatively lit booth. In contrast, a cold, poorly lit one can turn them off. To grab attendees’ attention and make your trade show displays shine, remember these trade show lighting do’s and don’ts.

Do’s of Trade Show and Exhibit Lighting

DO: Use LED Stem Lights

You’ve probably seen metal-arm lights attached to the top of booth panels or graphics at trade shows. These lights, known as stem lights, are common, but many use halogen bulbs that generate a lot of heat and can damage the paint and graphics. Instead, opt for LED stem lights for better performance and durability.

DO: Invest in Long-Term Lighting

LED trade show lights initially appear more costly, but they are worth it over time. You can save money on replacement costs because LED lights are more energy-efficient, have better clarity, and can last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lights.

DO: Choose the Right Color Tone

Selecting the right color tone for your lights can enhance your brand image. A yellow tint produced by incandescent lighting may distort colors or soften details. You can create the ideal ambiance for your digital trade show displays with the LEDs’ wide range of color temperatures.

DO: Keep Lighting Within Your Exhibit Space

Ensure all lighting stays within your booth space according to the International Association of Events and Exhibitions (IAEE) guidelines. This guide doesn’t allow for lights on aisle carpets or arm lights extending beyond your booth boundaries. These can result in violations and removal requests.

Don’ts of Trade Show and Exhibit Lighting

DON’T: Use Halogen Lights

Halogen lights are outdated and inefficient. Plus, many convention centers prohibit halogen lights. Dispose of halogens properly and switch to LEDs for a better trade show experience.

DON’T: Overdo Color-Changing Lights

While color-changing lights can be tempting, use them sparingly. Subtle, slow changes or fades can effectively draw attention to key areas without overwhelming your display. Avoid making your booth too colorful with excessive color-changing lights.

DON’T: Just Place Lights Anywhere

Think about where your lights should go and focus on the areas that need it the most. While any lighting is better than none, be strategic by highlighting your logos and critical features of your booth. Adding lights to a plain side wall will only draw attention to dull graphics. Step back and ask yourself, “What do I want attendees to notice?” Those are the parts of your exhibit that deserve the spotlight.

DON’T: Handle Lights Carelessly

Exhibit lights are fragile. Pack arm lights in individual boxes, ideally the manufacturer’s original packaging. Wrap rolls of LED tape with foam padding and protect any pre-affixed tape. This careful handling prevents damage and ensures your lights arrive in good condition.

Stand Out at Your Next Event

Lighting might not be everything, but it’s a game-changer. To see how impactful it can be, stand at the end of an aisle and see which booths catch your eye first at your next event. They’ll likely be the brightly lit ones. But with your great lighting, you need excellent graphics, too. That’s where Trade Show Display Pros can help. You’ll find versatile, affordable, and easy-to-use options from our wide selection of display banner stands in various sizes and price ranges.

Did you know it costs about $259 to meet a prospect at their office, but only $142 if you meet them at a trade show? That’s some serious savings!

But to make a trade show really pay off, you need to plan in advance. Check out our trade show ideas to maximize booth traffic and get the biggest bang for your buck.

Build Buzz Before The Event

To get people excited about your trade show booth, start promoting early. Here’s how:

• Chat with potential trade show attendees on Instagram, Facebook, X, and other social media platforms.
• Write some informative blogs and social media posts about what you’ll be doing at an upcoming trade show.
• Add a small note in your email signature about the event.
• Share some special discounts that’ll be available at the show.
• Ensure potential customers know where to find you.
• Follow the organizer’s social media accounts and share their posts.
• Send a newsletter to current and potential clients.
• Invite your customers to come to the show.
• Create or use an event hashtag.

Believe it or not, these actions will build excitement and draw more visitors to your booth.

Understand Your Audience

Don't aim to please everyone—it’s a losing game. Instead, identify your target audience and shape your approach to match their preferences.

Do your customers love flashy digital trade show displays? Go with bright colors, eye-catching visuals, and distinct sounds. Prefer a more relaxed atmosphere? Create a space with comfy seating and soothing colors.

See if you can get a registered attendees list before the event. Just make sure you follow the rules if you get one, i.e. don’t spam everyone.

Look for current customers on the list, as they’re great for sales and referrals. Contact them to set up a meeting or invite them to enjoy special perks.

Offer Irresistible Deals

People love freebies and deals at trade shows. Create a sense of urgency by offering special prices for purchases made at the event.

Also, you can hand out discount codes at your booth that are valid for a limited time after the show; these will help you track sales linked to the event.

Use Cool Tech

Interactive tech, like tablets, touchscreens, and digital signs are great at grabbing attention. Head-turning displays can encourage social media shares that give you free publicity—isn’t that cool?

Also, visitors can fill out a survey or participate in a contest using an interactive screen. But they’ll have to provide their email address for a chance to win a gift.

Smart Booth Layout

Finally, your booth layout matters a lot, whether you’re in a prime location or not. What’s the first thing people see when they enter your booth? Are they entering from the side or from the front?

Use lighting strategically. Proper lighting can direct attention and draw people in. Spotlight new products to add some drama. Use lamps to create a warm, inviting feel. Also, lights in display cases will make your products stand out.

If it’s your first trade show, consider hiring an expert to set up your booth. Because pros know how to make the most of lighting, visuals, and trade show displays, give them a shot.

Final Thoughts

Don’t forget: it’s not just about flashy lights and cool gadgets (though they are fun). It's about creating meaningful interactions and lasting impressions.

If you're on the hunt for durable trade show gear, such as trade show shipping cases or trendy fabric trade show displays, check out Trade Show Display Pros. They always have top-notch products at affordable prices!

Are you tired of the same old trade show marketing tactics? Are you thinking of innovative ways to bring more people to your booth?

Well, of course, you should use eye-catching trade show displays and popup trade show displays, but you should also host rad games at your booth, as they’ll entice trade show attendees to check out your booth—and your products by extension.

Here are some top trade show game ideas that’ll make your booth stand out.

1. VR And AR Games Are A Big Hit

Create a virtual world with VR or AR tech. Then customers can check out your products and services in a unique way. Using this tech, you’ll also convey that your company is cool and cutting-edge. Here’s what you should do:

• Purchase some VR or AR tech.
• Next, guide booth attendees through a virtual tour and answer any questions they have.
• Collect their contact info after the show so you can follow up.

If you want something that’s a proven hit, try “Walk The Plank.” This trendy VR game lets users experience the adrenaline rush of balancing on a skyscraper. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and sure to make an impact on all those who attend your booth.

2. Try Skill-Based Challenges

Engage visitors with hands-on activities that highlight your products’ capabilities.

• Create challenges, or innovative tasks, that show off what your products can do.
• Offer a range of prizes to keep everyone excited.
• Make sure you've got clear instructions and all the stuff visitors need.

3. Want Something Funny? Try Photo Booth Engagement!

Encourage booth attendees to snap fun photos with your branded props and backdrop.

• Set up a themed photo booth with cool props and a branded backdrop.
• Offer instant photo printing or set up a hashtag for social media sharing.
• Collect their contact details for future marketing.

4. Are You Smarter Than AI?

Challenge your visitors by testing their knowledge against AI.

• They use their smartphones to answer multiple-choice questions.
• Incorporate a leaderboard to add some friendly competition.
• Customize the backdrop with your logo to guarantee a memorable experience.

5. Looking For Something Classic? Try Prize Wheel!

• Guests spin the wheel for a chance to win various prizes.
• Make things exciting by offering both small and large prizes.
• Use it as an icebreaker to get people talking.

The Bottom Line

Sure, these games will be a hit, but you need to make sure your booth is attractive; this way people can see it from a distance. At Trade Show Display Pros, we specialize in creating eye-catching trade show banner stands that will make your brand shine.

No matter the booth’s size or the budget you have, we have perfect displays that’ll help you stand out from the crowd.

Trade shows have always been important for connecting in business and showing off what’s new and cool. But let’s be honest, they aren’t the same as they used to be! Things have changed over the years, thanks to recent technology. What worked before might not fly now or in the future. People coming to these events expect more than ever before. So, exhibitors must step up their game to keep wowing the crowd. This blog will explore how trade shows have shifted and what booth strategies do the trick these days.

What’s Popular in Trade Shows?

These days, trade shows are all about fresh ideas, teamwork, and making connections. Technology has also shaken up how exhibitors and attendees interact at these events. You might notice the switch from old-school paper ads to flashy digital trade show displays and interactive setups. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are stealing the spotlight, giving visitors a wild ride beyond the booth walls. Social media is also in on the action, stirring up buzz before and after the main event keeping the conversation going strong.

Strategies That Work Now

1. Less Clutter, More Breathing Room

Booths can get pretty cramped. It’s a tight squeeze for most companies, trying to fit everything they have into a limited space without leaving anything important behind. Now, people are all about giving each other some space. That means it’s time for exhibitors to get picky about what goes on in their booths. Streamlining is the name of the game, making sure there’s room to move. That might mean showing off fewer products or getting creative with maximizing vertical space, using materials like briefcase displays.

2. High-Tech, Low-Touch Vibes

These days, visitors aren’t too keen on touching everything in sight. Touchscreens used to be all the rage, but that fad has faded. Instead of tapping away, attendees prefer hands-free action with voice commands or motion sensors. And forget about paper brochures; digital downloads are where it’s at. The good thing about that trend is that you can save on printing costs.

3. The Virtual Experience

Virtual and hybrid events are making waves in the scene. It’s not just about the live action anymore; there’s a whole virtual world to explore, too. Whether it’s alongside or instead of a physical event, virtual booths with stunning trade show displays are getting people talking. So, when the option is on the table, it’s worth considering how to bring that virtual magic to your brand.

4. Get Hands-On with Immersive Tech at Trade Shows

Since people are becoming more interested in the metaverse and mixed reality, experiential displays are more popular than ever this year. Experiential exhibits allow you to interact more directly with the booth’s content. These are some tips:

• Take a close look at product demos or samples.
• Choose your path with interactive displays.
• Use VR or AR technology to engage attendees.

Time to Level Up Your Trade Show Booth

Trade shows aren’t what they used to be, so your booth shouldn’t be either. Whether you’re sprucing up your old setup or going for a brand-new vibe, you must stay on top of the latest trends. Here at Trade Show Display Pros, we blend our know-how with what’s hot right now to craft incredible trade show display stands and popup trade show displays. Are you ready to team up with the pros? Contact us today!

US trade shows are a massive $100 billion scene, pulling in over 80 million people every year. They are a golden opportunity to get your name out there and snag leads that could boost your business. Investing in lead generation is crucial, and knowing how to handle those trade show leads is a major advantage.

How to Snag Leads and Boost Your Business

1. Set Your Lead Generation Goals

Before hitting up any trade show, it’s crucial to have a few key questions and goals in mind. What kind of leads are you aiming to catch? Knowing your destination makes the journey smoother. Next, figure out what information you need from those leads. It could be a phone number, email, or more detailed data. Even if it’s just a name, every bit of information helps.

2. Get Tech-Savvy

Stop using pen and paper to jot down people’s information at trade shows. It’s 2024! Lean into technology. Instead of wasting time typing notes back at the office, use a tablet, phone, or any system to capture leads directly. Automate whatever you can to keep things running smoothly.

3. Standing Out at Your Trade Show

You should let everyone know you’re the real deal. Make your booth pop with an excellent lead strategy. Think outside the booth! Set up eye-catching trade show displays, fun games, and interactive activities to draw people in. Show off your creative flair and watch the results roll in when you have the right strategy from day one.

4. Drive Traffic to Your Space

Make your booth the go-to spot. Attract attendees with competitions, exclusive offers, giveaways, or sneak peeks at new products. Most attendees at trade shows are hunting for free demos, so build that anticipation. Go the extra mile by inviting an industry expert to sign autographs or take photos. Plan this for peak times to maximize your impact. Make your booth the highlight of the event for every visitor with head-turning banner stands for trade shows and innovative digital trade show displays.

Managing Your Trade Show Leads

When the dust settles, it’s time to see if you hit your targets based on your original plans. It’s awesome if people say they loved your booth, but the important part is the numbers. How many leads did you get? Then, it’s time to put them to work! Sort and prioritize your leads based on interest levels. Timing is crucial; follow up right after the show while your brand is still fresh in their minds. The sooner you do this, the better your chances of closing those deals. Don’t wait too long, or those leads might go cold.

Make Your Next Trade Show Unforgettable

Capturing trade show leads isn’t easy, but it’s doable with the right game plan. With a solid strategy, it can be a blast! At Trade Show Display Pros, we have your back with our excellent trade show banners and trade show display stands. We have a vast selection, so you’ll find what you need to make your show a hit.