Trade Show Tips to Prepare for SuperZoo

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By Dana Humphrey

Exhibiting at trade shows like SuperZoo will without a doubt help you to increase your brand’s awareness. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to network and check out what’s going on within the pet industry. Once your booth is booked, you may be wondering, “What’s next?” In order to ensure a successful and smooth trade show experience, be sure your team remembers these helpful tips!

Book Your Travel Early: In addition to booking your booth in advance, hotels and flights are equally as important. A smart place to start looking is directly through the SuperZoo website. You may find some savings there! Keep in mind, staying at the Mandalay Bay will be your best option since that’s where the show is held. Having the luxury to walk downstairs each day is very convenient, which is why these rooms tend to fill up quickly. Staying elsewhere will consist of cab rides and Las Vegas traffic, which will only cause more stress traveling to and from the event.

Prepare a Press Release: Before the show, your company should have a SuperZoo press release prepared. Make sure to include your show specials, booth number, new product information, or any special happenings going on during the event. Distribute the release before the show, and also print 50 to 100 copies to display in the press room. This is a great way to get the word out about your company and products before and during the show.

Have a Photoshoot: Another important task to tackle in advance is to schedule a photoshoot. This way, your company will have hi-res images ready to go for signage, the new product showcase and media. In addition, be sure to have plenty of business cards, brochures, postcards, etc., that will be easily accessible for visitors at your booth.

Get Creative: Take some time to think about how you’ll display your business in an interactive way. With thousands exhibiting at SuperZoo, you’ll want to stand out. The more involved your audience is, the better. For example, you can create a game that is related to your brand. It will bring added value and get people’s attention.

What to Wear: Comfort is key! Of course, you’ll want to look presentable and professional; however, these three days will consist of standing for long hours. For the ladies, you’ll want to avoid wearing heels. Flats are best and try to pack one pair per day to switch it up for maximum comfort. Test them out before the event to make sure they are durable and comfortable. This rule applies to men’s shoes as well. Pick out your outfits in advance so you don’t have to think about it each day of the show. Have your outfit and accessories completely planned for day one, two and three. The less to think about in the morning, the better!

Pack Snacks: Although there are many food options available at the Mandalay Bay hotel, the lines tend to get extremely long, especially during the lunch hour. Taking a break to recharge is a must, but have a backup plan. Bring a cooler to keep at your booth with some healthy and go-to snacks. A few ideas: fruit, protein bars, pretzels, carrot sticks with dip, etc. A case of water, too!

A Notebook is Essential: A blank notebook will be your best friend during this three-day pet product extravaganza. Along with the notebook, be sure to have a stapler handy. Every time you collect a business card, you can quickly staple it to the notebook and then take notes about that particular networking experience. You will meet hundreds of people and it will be difficult to remember every detail about each encounter. A notebook and stapler are the best way to keep your memory fresh so that you can follow up after the show and really make your SuperZoo experience a success!