Saving Money At Trade Shows Isn't Hard To Do Part II

Portable displays, modular set ups, hard sided shipping cases and trips to freight companies have become the norm for smaller businesses. Exhibitors know that planning for a trade show is imperative for a smooth convention. Set up your display prior to your show and get everything packed well in advance. Get estimates and negotiate ancillary charges with convention centers. This can be tedious, but it is well worth the time and effort that goes into it; not to mention save you money in the long run.

Many businesses purchase trade show booths that they can easily set up themselves, saving money prior to trade show day. One suggestion? Spend more money up front by buying a portable modular display that you can expand later. Having a portable, lightweight display makes the task of transporting these materials much easier. Here is an example: weights for graphic vinyl panels can be at least twice the weight of fabric graphic walls. Depending on the size of the trade show booth this seemingly small weight can add up quickly.

As companies grow so should the trade show booths they use for conventions. Understand that most trade show systems are modular and can use the same hardware to build off of. We specifically like two systems, Triga and EcoSystems. Both of these systems offer a different aspect to the exhibitor but have components we know are important. Similarities include LED lighting, sustainably made, easy set-up and durable materials make these products stand above the rest. Each system has benefits that are unique and are described below.

Triga can conform to any shape like curved walls, hexagonal shapes and even circular systems like towers with small additions to the hardware. The top 'heads' of the Triga posts have multiple slots that the adjoining cross bar can fit into which allows the system to bend and curve along the wall as the design allows. So when a company needs to expand from a 10'x10' space into a 10'x20' this system can easily accommodate.

EcoSystems uses set sizes of engineered aluminum that fit together through prefabricated design systems. Usually companies can purchase a 10' booth that can build into a 20' booth and add half of the graphics and hardware at a later date. This enables the company to expand when the budget allows. EcoSystems come with a hard sided shipping case that is ready for shipping.

Finding the perfect booth is up to your company's needs and budget. We just want to let businesses know that there are options for saving money at trade shows; especially smaller businesses. So keep in mind that modular, portable displays can be a huge benefit, just watch out for the overall weight to decrease shipping charges. Adding LED lighting and energy-efficient products with a generator like the EnergyBar can save companies from massive ancillary charges at conventions. Do your homework, negotiate with convention centers, prepare months ahead and sit back, relax and have yourself a good time at your show.