While most exhibitors start prepping for a trade show 10 to 12 months in advance, sometimes you don’t have that kind of luxury. Maybe exhibiting at a show is a last-minute decision. Or maybe unforeseen circumstances have you scurrying to develop a Plan B. Whatever the reason for last-minute plans, rush promotional products can come to the rescue.
We’ve put together a list of quick tips to help you create successful last-minute trade show plans—with an up-to-date booth, fun ways to draw attention to your exhibit, and a few popular promotional products that will help you capture leads.
Make sure your booth is ready to go
Even with limited time to get prepared, you still need to make sure your booth accurately reflects your business. If your company has gone through any brand changes—or if you’ve added products or services—it’s time to update the look and messaging of your booth materials. After all, you’ll want to be prepared for the 92 percent of trade show attendees who say they’re in search of new products. Get a fresh look with a new indoor banner, ready to ship in a day.
Stock up on promotional products
A standard rule for trade shows is to order more business cards, literature and promotional swag than you think you’re going to need. Best-case scenario: You’ll give them all away. Worst-case scenario: You’re already prepared for your next trade show.
Pick rush promotional products that’ll catch attention and start conversations. A USB charging cable or a Tri-Colour Cotton Tote are popular promotional products that will draw people to your table and be used for years to come.
Ask customers to help you promote your booth
With such a short prep time, you’ll need to get creative when it comes to letting people know you’re on the trade show floor. In addition to making social media announcements and emailing potential local customers as early as possible, send a few T-shirts to your best clients. Then tell them if they’re wearing the shirt when they visit your booth, you’ll thank them with a special gift, like a laptop messenger bag or a Bluetooth® speaker.
Last-minute trade show? No problem!
When it comes to trade show planning, the more time, the better. But when last-minute planning is unavoidable, rush promotional products—all ready to ship in a day—come to the rescue