The future felt uncertain for a few months when the pandemic forced everyone into seclusion, but now some states are attempting to help businesses reopen safely. This extends to trade shows, which are slowly beginning to pick up where they left off. Event marketing is starting up again, but with the world in its current state, what does the future hold for trade shows?
New Trade Show Industry Trends
New trade show trends are already on the rise as things begin to start up again. Technology is finding its way into many different venues for a variety of reasons. First of all, technology simplifies the trade show going experience. No paperwork, no tallies, no terrible signatures— simply pressing a few buttons and signing up to your booth or services online gets the job done. You can track potential new clients, set up trade show giveaways, provide visitors with badges or other digital offers, and much more.
Second, it simplifies your booth design. Trade show booths are about style and branding, but you are usually taking care to leave certain sections open for the use of sign-ins, brochures, and other physical elements. With digital, you can clear up floor space and dedicate it to more engaging branding and advertising opportunities. While you won’t need to get rid of the physical portions of the experience altogether, you can mitigate their use and focus on a digital approach for simplicity.
Third is the safety angle. While we’ve already written about safety tips for large events in another post, digital makes the trade show safer. While being aware of your surroundings is important, minimizing touchpoints for public events prevents the spread of bacteria and germs, meaning fewer people get sick or are put at risk.
Personalized Exhibit Designs
The future of trade shows starts and ends with the exhibitors, but newer trends are leaning towards these exhibitors personalizing their floor plan and marketing. Through sleek visuals, more attention to details and market research, and focusing on attendee behavior, trade show marketing is simplified and accessible. You’re able to customize your booth to fit the crowd’s tastes based on extensive research instead of personal opinion. Not only is it safer, but it’s more cost-effective and appealing.
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Trade Show Exhibition Social Media
Similar to the rise of digital, social media is an important factor in marketing and outreach. You can use social media as a branding outlet, an effective marketing strategy, and a data-gathering tool. Spread the word about your booth and watch attendees flock at a chance to see what you offer, how you can benefit them, and more. Visitors can show off your booth for you, increase your attendance numbers, and show you how many people hold your exhibit in high regard.
In the long term, these trends are sure to make a difference across the industry. Some help you stay safe, others help spread your brand, but all of them benefit your booth at the end of the day. Trade shows are a time to celebrate the differences between businesses in the same industry and highlight how you can help your clients. If you need help with asset management, booth setup, and beyond, Gateway has the skills and experience necessary to create an unforgettable exhibit. From storage to design, we have everything you need to succeed. Start changing the way to approach trade shows today. Rely on Gateway’s skilled services to get the job done.
