Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I just started my own online business and have recently started wholesaling my product to retail brick and mortar shops.  How important is a trade show for exposure?

There`s really no way to judge that without knowing your product and goals, what trade shows you are talking about, etc.

I invented the Finer Designer Wastebasket Liner, and sell it thru The Finer Liner.com.  But in order to build up a retail line, I feel that I should at least do one trade show a year to show potential retail store buyers my product. Its a new product, and they dont know it exists. Would this be a good way to boost exposure?

I invented the Finer Designer Wastebasket Liner, its a beautiful and decorative plastic liner for wastebaskets instead of the unsightly supermarket bags with handles that most people use.  I was wondering if trade shows would be a viable means of exposure to the buying end of the market. Most people dont know my liners exist. They are currently being sold in a few specialty shops in the US. My goal is to broaden the selling market for my product. Thanks for any info. (Home decor trade shows)

They are a great way to meet potential customers... and develop a network with others in the same industry. You get in front of thousands of people in a short amount of time. They are intense.

We used trade shows to buy product for our ski and bike shop. You may want to check out a show you are interested in first as a visitor.

Trade show are expensive. Get a feel for if it would help expose your product before you commit to being a vendor.

You will also have a chance to see if there is any competition... which is a good sign. That means they have found it a valuable investment for their business.



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http://www.christian-business-opportunities.org

Thanks for your input, Yes, I was able to barter the fee down a bit and I am actually looking forward to getting out there with my product.  I was able to pitch my product to a well known decorating magazine, and they will be featuring my product in an upcoming issue. Thank you again for your response.

TRade shows are a cost-effective way of meeting a lot of serious potential customers. Only thing is are there any relevant shows for your business, and how would you present yourself professionally?

I have looked into a HOme decor trade show in Hartford,( I live in CT) which will serve CT, Mass, RI, Some NY.  I will be able to sell my product and hopefully recoup the cost of the show, and get EXPOSURE!! to the trade and retail buyers. The show will last for 2 days.  On Donny Deutsch last nite, doing a trade show for a brand new idea was considered a very good move in marketing your product. So - off I go to do a trade show!

Good luck Annette!!  Tell us all about it when you get back!  I`m actually planning on going to my first one in January.  Tell me how it went and give me your feedback as a new exhibitor.

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Leslie
Founder and President
Charmed Life Products LLC
Grill Charms™… The MUST HAVE grilling accessory that is revolutionizing the American Cook-out AND The perfect gift for any occasion!
Grill Charms
                                                                                                    

Hi Leslie, Yes, right now we are planning our booth exhibit. Small booth of 10 by 10, but we have be eye catching!  Yes, send me your email and I will send you my feedback and how much I was able to sell directly, and in orders.  I am very excited about the show,  and its potential in growth for my business.