The busy Q1 trade show season is here, which means distributors can take advantage of a myriad of in-person industry events to find new products for end-clients and establish relationships with suppliers. But those opportunities are only as lucrative as the preparation that should come before the event, especially with the often-significant investment of time it takes to get there. According to trade show agency Expo Stars, nearly 80% of attendees will travel more than 400 miles to be at an event.

Here are six ways to prepare for your next promotional products trade show.

1. Study the exhibitor list.

Take advantage of the show organizers’ marketing materials that should include the exhibitors slated to be at the event. Research the suppliers’ offerings, decide which of their booths are must-visits and contact suppliers ahead of time to schedule one-on-one conversations. Also check out the show floor plan and map your route so you don’t do extra walking by having to double back and retrace your steps.

2. Establish goals.

Determine your show objectives ahead of time – are you looking to make a certain number of new contacts? Do you have upcoming client projects for which need new attention-grabbing product ideas? Are there supplier relationships you want to bolster? Make a list of what you want to achieve during the event and track your progress as you go.

3. Check out education classes.

Most industry events offer some type of professional development sessions either before or during the show – like sales and marketing tips, branding expertise, decorating techniques and more. Take a look at the schedule and attend as many as you think would be helpful to you and your business, and take notes that you can review afterward.

80%
The percentage of trade show attendees who will travel more than 400 miles to get to the event.

(Expo Stars)

4. Book early reservations.

As soon as you register for the event, book your flights and hotels. Try to fly in and out at times conducive with your show schedule, and find a hotel that’s close by. Also look for savings on accommodations that show organizers are offering attendees. And if you’d like to take your team out to dinner, make those reservations too since area eateries are sure to book up.

5. Allow time for breaks.

While you’re creating a game plan for the show, don’t forget to factor in downtime and regular meals. Attending education classes and walking the show floor can be fatiguing, so make sure to give yourself time to decompress, discuss your findings with colleagues, track your show objectives and make amendments if needed.

6. Bring new employees.

If you have team members new to the industry and/or your company, have them come along. It’ll be helpful for them to attend education classes, meet suppliers, touch and feel product, and have constructive conversations about upcoming projects. Schedule time with them during and after the show to discuss their experience and answer any questions they may have.