With the wrap up of the most recent trade show we attended, the GLTPA Logging & Heavy Equipment Expo, we’d like to share our top 5 tips for exhibiting at an equipment tradeshow.
Equipment trade shows are a great opportunity to put your products in front of contractors, operators, and other industry professionals. But getting the most from a show takes more than setting up a booth. A little planning can help your team make better connections and have a more productive event.
1. Post About Going Beforehand—and While You’re There
Don’t wait until the doors open to tell customers you’re attending. Post about the event beforehand and include your booth location and what equipment or attachments you’ll have on display.
Keep posting during the event, too. Photos of your booth, equipment, and team can remind attendees to stop by. It also allows customers who couldn’t attend to see what you’re showcasing.
For Central Tree, equipment shows are an opportunity to meet contractors and operators and discuss the forestry equipment and attachments we work with every day.
2. Create a Portable Office
Treat your booth like a temporary office. Bring pens, business cards, chargers, notepads, scissors, zip ties, cleaning supplies, and other basics. And bring tape—even if you don’t think you’ll need it.
Have an organized way to collect customer information as well. When someone wants additional equipment information or a quote, you should be able to record their details quickly and accurately.
Being prepared for small problems keeps your team focused on talking with attendees instead of searching for supplies.
3. Bring Printed Spec Sheets
Even with product information available online, printed spec sheets are useful at an equipment show. Have handouts available for every machine or attachment you display.
Equipment buyers often want to compare specifications, hydraulic requirements, dimensions, weight, and machine compatibility. A clear handout lets them review that information at the booth and take it with them.
This is especially helpful with forestry equipment, where choosing an attachment that matches the carrier and hydraulic system is important for proper performance.
4. Make Time for Networking With Other Exhibitors
Don’t spend the entire show inside your own booth. Set aside time to walk around the show and talk with other exhibitors.
Trade shows bring together manufacturers, equipment dealers, contractors, operators, suppliers, and service professionals. A conversation may introduce you to a new product, supplier, industry contact, or solution you can use in your own operation.
For businesses working throughout Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Indiana, these events are also a valuable opportunity to learn what contractors are seeing across the region.
5. If Your Budget Allows, Sponsor or Purchase an Ad
If your marketing budget allows, consider an event sponsorship or advertisement. These opportunities can help attendees recognize your company before they reach your booth.
You don’t necessarily need the largest sponsorship package. Consider the cost, expected attendance, and audience, then choose an option that makes sense for your business and goals.
Get More From Your Next Equipment Tradeshow
A successful tradeshow starts with preparation. By using these 5 tips for exhibiting at an equipment tradeshow you’ll be prepared to get the most out of your experience. Promote your attendance, create a portable office, bring useful product information, network with other exhibitors, and consider additional advertising when your budget allows.
Most importantly, use the event to have conversations. Equipment shows allow contractors and operators to see products firsthand, ask questions, and learn how equipment may fit their operation.
Central Tree, LLC is based in Pingree Grove, Illinois, and serves customers throughout Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Indiana. As an authorized dealer for Denis Cimaf and Ryan’s Equipment, we offer forestry equipment and attachments backed by local setup, parts availability, and technical support.
Looking for forestry equipment or attachments for your operation? Stop By Our Location at 14N705 US Highway 20, Pingree Grove, IL 60140, or Request a Free Quote.