We often ask new clients to share with us their exhibiting goals. More times than not, we hear that they are exhibiting because they "want to generate more quality leads for their company/service/product."
Generating quality leads is just one benefit your company will receive when exhibiting at a trade show. Consider the following: 
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Pour on the charm! Impress your current 
clients and prospects alike by giving them the time they deserve. Whether its in the booth, or after show hours have ended at a dinner or reception event, use this time to solidify your relationships in a less-formal environment.
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Educational opportunities are at you
r fingertips at a trade show. Often times, there is an educational component that correlates to the trade show schedule. Trade shows offer a great opportunity to refresh yourself, or train new employees on various industry segments.
Posted by
Don Mitzel on Thu, May 10, 2012 @ 09:10 AM
Are pop-up trade show displays becoming less prevalent? Just as we saw the move away from carpet panel systems ten to fifteen years ago, there may be a similar trend starting with exhibitors slowly making the move from pop-up displays to modular, yet portable systems.
Pop-up displays are certainly still very common to see on the trade show floor. When designed appropriately, they still make for an attention-demanding display. Many veteran trade show exhibitors feel quite comfortable setting up their own pop-up displays. Not to mention, they can probably do it in record time as most pop-ups take only seconds or minutes to put up. So why are we seeing more and more exhibitors move into a modular exhibit rather than re-using their existing pop-up display? It's simply this: trade show display trends change.
Just as there was a time when that large graphic mural in the back of your booth were a significant improvement over those old, heavy carpet panels, today that large printed background on a pop-up display may not grab the attention like it used to. Even if you only use a tabletop display or need to be able to set-up your own booth, the use of other light-weight systems that utilize fabric graphics have made significant inroad into the pop-up market. Modern and modular display designs that include fabric graphic elements are bringing style and functionality together like never before. These are especially popular for the local one day events. Technology, adaptability and portability are all playing more important roles in maximizing the budget, function and effectiveness for your trade show experience. We have accepted this challenge and are educating our clients through making the switch from pop-up displays to modular exhibits.
Been to a trade show recently? If so, you most likely noticed the increased use of fabric on various types of exhibits. Fabric components can be used in pop-up displays, modular displays and portable banner stands. We are finding more clients using fabric display components in for corporate signage and interior branding purposes as well.
Although not new to the trade show scene, fabric components are definitely gaining 
popularity. Fabric trade show displays allow for versatility and dimension, and when combined with effective display design, allow for breathtaking graphics on your display.
Haven't made the switch yet? Here are 3 reasons why you might want to consider designing your next trade show display with fabric components:
1. Fabric components can reduce your labor costs. Because most fabric exhibits are designed for modularity and portability, and don't have to be constructed like other custom displays with more rigid materials, your I&D costs may be reduced upon switching to a fabric display structure.
2. Drayage costs can be reduced when using an exhibit with primarily fabric components. Fabric components will often reduce the overall weight of the exhibit, meaning your drayage costs may also go down.
3. Trade show exhibit shipping bills may be reduced also - again, this is because of the fabric being a lighter-weight material than other traditional trade show display components. As an example, a fabric backdrop for a 10x10 booth space will weigh approximately 1/3 of what a hard wall portable exhibit the same dimensions will weigh.
If you are interested in incorporating fabric components into your next trade show display space, contact GraphiColor to set up a showroom tour. Our team of trade show experts are happy to guide you through updating your display. Our trade show display showroom is located in Livonia, MI, just outside of Detroit.
Posted by
Jim Goss on Mon, May 07, 2012 @ 08:31 AM
GraphiColor's own Jim Goss recently traveled to Germany and visited the Hanover Trade Fair - also known as Hannover Messe. This trade show is held at the largest trade fair venue in the world, and the business to business technology show is billed as the largest of its kind as well.
If you typically exhibit at trade shows in Michigan or across the U.S., then you may not realize the extremes that European companies go to when displaying their products and services at an exhibition. Even at a show like the Hanover Trade Fair, which is strongly dominated by huge names and companies, remains great benefit for both small and mid-sized businesses to exhibit.
There are many options for even small businesses to exhibit at a large, expensive show. If the show is attracting the clients you are looking to do business with, don't let its size scare you off. Small business owners have the following options when choosing to exhibit at a large show:
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Get a small booth space. Most shows offer 10x10 booth spaces, some even smaller.
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Take advantage of the exhibit hall's offerings of a basic structure, and build your exhibit from there. One option is to simply create a backdrop that hangs from the existing pipe and drape that the show management company constructs to designate each booth space boundary.
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Participate in the show with an industry group.
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Have a booth within a pavilion that may be organized by your local chamber of commerce, or local organization. Associations like the Detroit area's Automation Alley often participate in trade missions of this kind.
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Have a booth within a pavilion organized by the U.S. Commercial Service - as pictured below.
Making the decision to exhibit, at any show, will take a commitment from your organization. Simply showing up will not be sufficient for your ROI. No matter what trade show you exhibit at, the key is to outfit your booth space with a professional appearance and an effective message.
A small booth space can still effectively communicate your brand and your message, look professional and result in a profitable show effort for your organization. Check out these small, yet effective display spaces Jim saw while at Hanover.
Many exhibitors consider show attendance, booth location and number of booth visitors when determining how successful their trade show was. In actuality, these three factors aren't as important to your success as you might think.
Myth #1: Pick your trade shows by looking at overall show attendance.
It is possible that a show's attendence has declined, but that is not a reason to skip a show, especially if it has been successful for you in the past. Yes, it is true that many shows have fewer attendees than in years past (we saw this as a result of 9/11). However, those attendees on the show floor are now more often the decision makers instead of the many gophers who were sent to the show in broods in years past. Instead of worrying about the overall attendance, focus on understanding the potential audience and ideal clients you'd like to attract at the show.
Myth #2 Trade show booth location will determine your success.
FALSE! Booth location will not determine your overall success at a show. Yes, its important to examine your options when choosing booth space. However, attendees are more prepared than ever upon arrival to trade shows. Buyers often attend trade shows now with pre-set agendas or appointments with companies who they must see. Many shows even offer Smart Phone apps that allow easy navigation on the show floor. The key is that your company is there, is prepared and that your ideal clients know where you'll be. (Hint: think about your pre-show marketing plans!)
Myth #3 A booth must be busy to be successful. 
This statement is only true if your key prospects represent the majority of overall attendees at a specific show. Busy booths are wonderful - but only if they guests within your booth space are truly qualified prospects. If not, these booth visitors may be taking up time with your staffers, and keeping the ideal prospects out.
We know you've invested a great deal of time and budget in 
crafting the ideal trade show display - so what are you doing to protect your investment once it ships to the show? The ability to avoid shipping damage to your trade show display is an important aspect of trade show strategy.
Even the most breath-taking exhibit can fail if its components do not arrive safely. Looking for a way to have your UPS package containing your display treated better? Simply insure your shipment for an amount greater than $1,000.00. Sure, the extra insurance will cost you a little more up front, but that amount is miniscule compared to what costs you may incur when a display arrives damaged. Reputable firms like FedEx or UPS have deserved reputations for safety and reliability, taking special care with shipments valued over $1,000.00. Shipments insured at that level are treated with more care; your package has to be signed for by the driver, and is sorted differently at the shippers facility. Trade show shipping insurance effectively protects you if mishaps occur to items during shipping. If you are handling the shipment of your trade show display, be sure to have it insured.
In addition to insurance, proper inspection of the return freight from shows is a must! Your receiving department should never sign for a shipment if a case is damaged. Insuring your shipment for over $1000.00 will lower the probability of carelessness on the part of the drivers. For more information on shipping strategies for your trade show display, contact GraphiColor.
Don't have the time to deal with the shipping of your display? We can handle it! GraphiColor Exhibits stores, ships and inspects our clients’ trade show displays upon arrival and return from each show as a part of our trade show management program.
In my opinion, the best way for a person to feel comfortable making a sizable investment – in anything – is to meet face to face with the person you are about to do business with. Face-to-face marketing is a term coined years ago, and if you used the current climate of social media as a predictor of future behavior, you might think that trade shows and exhibitions are a dying industry.
In actuality, the current metrics for the exhibition industry indicate otherwise. According to Steven Hacker, president of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events, the exhibition industry has consistently out preformed the U.S. GDP in the last 5 quarters – and in some cases doubled it.
B to B Magazine surveyed its members about their events budgets in 2010 and 2011 and published the following survey results:
Of those surveyed, 52% planned on increasing their marketing budgets in 2011 versus 7 % decreasing them. For trade shows and events, 44% planned on increasing their budgets, while only 11% has plans to decrease them.
Pretty enlightening numbers, wouldn’t you say?
We understand, accidents happen! But, keeping your trade show display in top condition is the key to its longevity! You may not know how to properly maintain your display, but GraphiColor's production team is happy to give you some pointers.
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Most damage can be avoided with careful handling and cleaning. Make sure whomever is using the display knows how to properly pack and unpack it. If you don't have a separate carrying case for your graphics, place a protective liner between them to avoid scratching them. (Don't have one? Just ask us!)
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If you find your exhibit is too heavy or cumbersome for one person to handle during assembly or dismantle, ALWAYS ask for help! Damage to your display and its graphics can be avoided simply by having a second pair of hands to help unpack, hang and repack when the trade show or event has concluded. 
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Most non-fabric, graphic panels can be wiped down with Windex (yes, Windex!) and a paper towel IF they are overlaminted. But, be careful not to get the liquid near the seam of the graphic, where it is able to seep under the laminate. Be sure to ask GraphiColor if you have any questions on how to care for your display properties.
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To revamp the power of your magnets on your pop-up display, take rubbing alcohol to them - it will increase their powers of attraction.
We know that exhibiting at trade shows can be a big investment, and we want you to give your display the TLC it deserves and requires, so it can serve you for many shows! GraphiColor can provide you with worry-free trade show TLC. We can take care of packing, shipping, and storing your trade show display here in our Livonia warehouse, and of course inspect and repair it when it returns from a show. For more information on our trade show services management program, please contact us.
As a Michigan native, there is no season I love more than summer! In fact, I think summer is the happiest time of year. Everyone is excited to get outside and enjoy the few short months of warm temperatures and sunshine, before old man winter makes his appearance again. I love the excitement that it brings, and the abundance of events that quickly fill my social calendar.
At GraphiColor, we love summer too! Yes, we know that its "slow season" for traditional trade shows, but, there are still plenty of opportunities to get your brand and your message out there during the summer months. We often assist clients in creating signage for outdoor events during these months. Whether its a golf outing, company picnic, charity event or fundraiser, we've got signage solutions that will compliment your event perfectly!
Getting ready for all of your outdoor 
events? Whether its a golf outing, company picnic, or an outdoor exhibit, GraphiColor can help you present your message effectively! From outdoor banner stands, to boulevard banners and flag systems, to custom printed tents and chairs, we've got the right product for your outdoor event. Let us know what is on your calendar this summer - especially if it's a golf outing I can come play in!
The use of lighting in your exhibit space makes a big impact and puts a spotlight on your brand and message. Without good lighting, your trade show display graphics, message and brand can simply fade away into the sea of exhibitors. If using stem lighting, GraphiColor 
suggests positioning lights on your display every two to three feet. For an optimum effect, light the entire back wall, not only the header. Many display systems offer backlit graphics, which add a distinctive WOW factor to your display. If you are unsure if your current display system can accommodate backlit graphics, contact us, and our exhibit design team can help!
Lighting your trade show display is more than just using stem lights and wall washers to illuminate your display. With the popularity of LED lights growing, there are endless options to incorporate LED lighting into your display. LED lights offer a low voltage, bright light solution with 
ower operating temperatures than traditional halogen lights, that are sometimes banned from convention centers (at certain watt levels) as they can present a fire hazard.
Our selection of trade show lighting products includes stem, recessed, track lighting, and more, all of which can be used to light your exhibit with great success and help your display stand out. Our in-house exhibit design team is experienced and can easily incorporate any type of lighting or lighting effect into your next trade show display.
Check out the difference lighting makes! Turn on the stem light on our most popular banner stand here.