Thursday, February 19, 2009

TABLE TOP TRADE SHOW DISPLAYS 101

As a former Manufacturers Rep for Expo Systems and Expo Communications, I know the importance of this information, but realize that "Table Tops" are just one of many ways to exhibit your product.


Once you've taken the time to understand "who" you should be marketing to and have researched the appropriate shows to exhibit at, you will need to be certain that you are making an impact on the attendees' mind through your messaging, booth staff and Trade Show Display.

Depending on the size of the booths or table top expos that you exhibit at there are a wide variety of options to choose from, ranging anywhere from table top displays, panel systems, "Pop-Ups", banner stands, stretch fabric displays, custom modules, to full custom exhibits.

This article will focus on Table Top Exhibiting displays, which are The "Budget Exhibiting Option" of choice! Table Top Expos are offered by many Chambers of Commerce, Business Groups, Associations and sometimes as a "Budget Option" at many of the larger Trade Shows; so businesses with smaller budgets can take advantage of the opportunity to participate in a large show.

THAT'S ALL THEY COST!: For several hundred dollars, you really can't go wrong; Table Top Expos are typically very inexpensive to participate in and can be particularly beneficial if you are looking to reach prospects in a certain local market. Visit the websites of your local Chambers and business groups to look for these Table Top Expo opportunities - I guarantee that there is one being planned by a local organization "as we speak"!

WANT THE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE?: If you take the time to target your exhibiting efforts with a clearly defined plan, you will have a competitive advantage and leave with many QUALIFIED business opportunities.

I CAN USE MY DISPLAY EVERYWHERE!: You only need to spend several hundred dollars on a Table Top Display to present a polished image for your business. An added benefit with many of the Table Top options is the ability to use the display in unlimited ways; in your showroom, at meetings where you can set up signage, sales meetings, client presentations and MANY MORE -- just think outside the box to maximize the minimal investment spent on your display!

OK, now let's move on so I can describe the type of Display options available for your Table Top exhibiting!

PANEL TABLE TOP DISPLAY

Pro's:

- Inexpensive
- Easy to set up
- "Entry Level" type of display
- Many can be converted into a larger display
- Easily Portable

Con's:

- My personal opinion about these type of displays are that many of the Panel Table Top Displays make your image look "dated" and "cheap"
- Takes up most of the Table Top area available

POP UP TABLE TOP DISPLAY

Pro's:

- Inexpensive
- Easy to set up
- Easily Portable
- More visually appealing than the panel systems and makes a better statement about your company

Con's:

- Takes up most of the Table Top area available

DOUBLE SIDED BANNER STANDS

A personal favorite of mine that my clients find to be the most effective for Table Top Shows is Double Sided Banner Stands; they fit up against the side of the table and allow you to create MANY messages about the benefits of your company and products!

Pro's:

- Inexpensive
- Easy to Set Up
- Easily Portable
- Lightweight
- Leaves your table top space available for collateral, demonstrations, etc.
You can place them in your larger exhibits when you are ready for that type of booth, or even the lobby of your office, or bring them to meetings where you are allowed to place signage; the possibilities are limitless!...

Con’s:

- Contains small pieces that can get misplaced or lost


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Linda Musgrove, the TradeShow Teacher helps companies improve their Trade Show Results through customized Trade Show Marketing Help; with programs for individuals, or entire departments and with the Trade Show Training Manual she authored, titled: Trade Show Training, for Increased Return On Investment. Visit www.tsteacher.com to register for the FREE Monthly Trade Show Tactics Newsletter!

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