Tuesday, December 9, 2008

TRADE SHOW BIG CHECKS PAY OFF!

NEW NEW NEW!!! OUR BIG CHECKS WILL PAY OFF!

Our Custom BIG Checks are digitally printed and mounted to durable corrugated plastic.

Using a blank business check design with fake numbers we are able to create a larger than life oversized check for your every use. These personalized checks can be used as a donation check, prize check, reward check or novelty check. Call them what you want! Use them one time or re-use them throughout the year, it's up to you. With our sturdy and strong backing, this corrugated plastic check will outlast any cardboard or foamcore material.

We offer 3 standard check templates to choose from: blue check, yellow check or green check. At no additional fee, we will add your information on the check, along with your logo or text at the top left corner if provided. Check out the 6 text styles to choose from below.


Or you can design your own check and submit the artwork to us - please call for customized pricing. Your custom check may be full color, black and white – we print it as you provide it. Remember, the better the artwork, the better quality the outcome will be. Again, please call for customized pricing.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Trade Show Breaking News! Custom Life Size Cut Outs




BREAKING NEWS FROM

Affordable Exhibit Displays, Inc.
Lewiston Maine


CUSTOM LIFE SIZE CUT OUTS ARE A NEW HIT WITH OUR CUSTOMERS! A GREAT WAY TO ADD 'LIFE' TO YOUR NEXT TRADE SHOW BOOTH OR PRESENTATION.


Custom Life Size Photo Stand Up - small, medium or large up to 84" tall. Use anywhere, anytime for almost anything.
  • People as in Babies, Kids and Adults
  • Military
  • Product Promotions
  • Special Occations like Anniversaries, Weddings or Birthdays
  • Specialty such as Animals
  • Company logos or School Mascots


  • Mini Size - no larger than 18" tall
  • Counter Top Size - no larger than 36" tall
  • Nearly Life Size - no larger than 60" tall
  • LIFE Size - no larger than 84" tall
It doesn't stop at just full size cut outs, we also can print BIG CHECKS & GIFT CERTIFICATES!

These photo cut outs are digitally printed on high quality photo film then mounted to Corrugated Plastic (no paper involved in this process). Folded in half for shipping. Self-standing it comes complete with easel back ready to set up and use immediately.

CALL TODAY TO ORDER! CONVENIENTLY SUBMIT YOUR HIGH RESOLUTION ARTWORK FILES ONLINE! Submit your high quality artwork for the photo finish you are looking for.


*Call for artwork specs. Standard production time is 5 business days plus shipping time.

Friday, October 31, 2008

Featured Trade Show Banner Stands - Order today!


FEATURED ** FEATURED ** FEATURED
These banner stand packages are HOT HOT HOT!
Order yours today!!
EZ Pull-Up Single Sided - 35" wide Retractable unit - w/ Printed Banner

* Set-up Size: 84" high x 35" wide
* Weight: Approx. 15 lbs. in the case
* Warranty: 5 year Manufacturer Warranty
* Retractable & Changeable Banner Stand
* Deluxe Spring Roller for Easy Graphic Change
* INCLUDES Full Color Digital Printed Polyester Fabric Banner
* INCLUDES Soft Canvas Carry Bag

Positively the simplest retractable stand out there!

Sleek, simple appearance ... Sometimes, well, looks do matter. What company wants to be known for having the ugliest booth compared to it's competitors? That's where our EZPull-Up banner stand can save your reputation! The clean style of the retractable base is visually appealing and the low profile design targets the focus on your banner information. The durable aluminum components are lightweight at only 15 lbs. Also perfect for airports, churches, car dealerships, hotel and bank lobbies!

FYI Printing Process: Banner material is a lightweight, canvas-like fabric. The banner edges are cut and sealed with a hot knife. This material will have no edge curl regardless of the storage time. Printer model used is a 60 HP Designjet 5500ps. Note: This material is intended for indoor use only.


Banner-Mate II - 3 Connected Non-Retractable Units w/ Printed Banners

* Set-up Size: 84.75" high x 105" wide
* Each Banner: 84.75" tall x 35" wide
* Weight: Approx. 8 lbs. per Banner Stand
* Warranty: 1 year Manufacturer Warranty
* Reuseable Grip Rail System
* Quick & Easy Set-up
* INCLUDES (3) Laminated Polycarbonate Banners (full color)

How to hit your target, better yet, hit the bull's-eye with your Banner-Mate II Banner Stand system!

Aim for the clean and clear message ... If you have been actively doing display research you already know that there are many varieties of displays to choose from. We will end your tradeshow display challenge by making sure you are aiming for the new fresh approach, the connected banner stands.

Aim for adapting and expanding ... How would you like to cover the same "real estate" as a full size pop up display at your next tradeshow and for a lot less? The Banner-Mate II™ will accomplish both! Pay less than a 10' full size pop up display and you could have yourself (3) separate units that form an 86" high x 105" wide straight mural backwall that is virtually seamless. Unlike ordinary display systems, the standard 35" Banner-Mate II™ units can be linked together using the unique state-of-the-art edge to edge magnetic that will tightly hook the (3) units together. Design your graphics so that each individual unit may be used independently as well as connected, making the Banner-Mate II™ even more of a great marketing resource. This allows you the option of using only one unit and banner for the smaller applications. Get ready to throw the winning Game Shot for your company!

Another tremendous advantage is the clean edge to edge look. With no visible bases or feet exposed, only your top to floor graphics with be focused on. Keep your booth space functional with the 14.5" deep footprint leaving more space for you to move around - a perfect choice where space is limited. The solid Chrome weighted base will ensure the stability and support needed. Don't fuss with a telescoping pole, the included 3-section corded Graphic pole requires no adjusting to the right height needed so you easily achieve the right height every time. Supply us with your full color graphics and we will print them on our high quality Lexan banner material. With a photo finish your artwork will represent you!

FYI Printing Process: Banner material is a Lexan (plastic) laminated. Front laminate has a matte satin textured finish to help reduce indoor glare. If your artwork is high photo quality this material will provide a photo output. Printer model used is a 60 HP Designjet 5500ps. Note: This material is intended for indoor use only.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

See our mobile Trade Show on wheels


A complete Trade Show 2 GO!!

Our Banner-Mate II banner stand trade show display system beats the same 'ol pop up display by a mile.

"The 5 panel display looks fantastic. It was on display in a tradeshow yesterday in Bangor and everyone loved it. It was a huge hit. There were a lot of inquiries (Bangor Savings Bank) as to who made it for us and we let everyone know it was Affordable Display. Myself as well as others here are very happy with the work Affordable has provided us."

--Colin, Oxford Networks, ME

5 Banner-Mate II units shown.
* Set-up Size: 84.75" high x 175" wide
* Each Banner: 84.75" tall x 35" wide
* Weight: Approx. 8 lbs. per Banner Stand
* Warranty: 5 year Manufacturer on stand components
* Reuseable Grip Rail System
* Quick & Easy Set-up

Friday, October 10, 2008

Trade Show in these harder times, why?

This little pig went to the market
This little pig stayed home
This little pig had roast beef
This little pig had none and....
This little pig cried 'YES YES YES' all the way to the bank


This week has been pretty rough on us Americans, well, really the whole world. All anyone can talk about is this Bailout or Buyout or whatever you want to call it, the Dow is down, losing jobs, the housing market, the almighty dollar, etc. All negative things are being reported. And rightly so, it affects all of us the large and the small.

BUT... this post is to say - hold on here - the doom and gloom is really bad but we're still here aren't we. Let's not give up! We're not ready to throw in the towel or cut our loses. We're here for the long haul through the good and the bad.

Well, Americans might be down but we're not out and you aren't either. Keep getting out there, keep meeting new people, keep spreading the word about you and what you do, be seen by the old and new. That's what a trade show is all about. It's the place to smile and be proud of the company you stand for. Trade shows are a fundamental avenue for any business to prosper.

And you know what we think is great about being in the Trade Show industry? Everything!!! It's in these times our services and ability to serve our customers is the most important. It's in these times that effective marketing makes the difference. It's in these times that we become creative and are willing to try new things. It's in these times that we work harder to win.

If nothing else, this post is to give you positive reinforcement that we all can do it and keep doing it no matter how rough it gets. Let's all weather the storm together! Don't stop trade showing, don't stop presenting your business, don't give up.

Muhammad Ali says it best, "Only a man who knows what it is like to be defeated can reach down to the bottom of his soul and come up with the extra ounce of power it takes to win when the match is even."

Monday, September 29, 2008

Make Your Trade Show Competitor's Jealous!


Your at the show, like usual you are putting your booth together. 5 minutes go by and done. With a simple clap of your hands together your display is done and your ready to go. You start to feel stares coming from all around, stares piercing in your back. You turn around to realize, it's your neighbors. Your booth neighbors are gwaking at you in pure jealousy. Your done and their, well... not.

The Banner-Mate banner stand system will make traveling a breeze and set up even easier. You'll look forward to going to those dreaded shows and everyone around will be envious to have their own.

Aim for the clean and clear message ... If you have been actively doing display research you already know that there are many varieties of displays to choose from - full size pop up or panel systems, table top pop up or panel systems and the popular retractable or pole banner stands. We would like to end your tradeshow display challenge by making sure you are aiming for the new fresh approach, the connected banner stands.

Aim for adapting and expanding ... How would you like to cover the same "real estate" as a full size pop up display at your next tradeshow and for a lot less? The Banner-Mate II™ will accomplish both! Pay less than a 10' full size pop up display and you could have yourself (3) separate units that form an 86" high x 105" wide straight mural backwall that is virtually seamless.

Unlike ordinary display systems, the standard 35" Banner-Mate II™ units can be linked together using the unique state-of-the-art edge to edge magnetic that will tightly hook the (3) units together. Design your graphics so that each individual unit may be used independently as well as connected, making the Banner-Mate II™ even more of a great marketing resource. This allows you the option of using only one unit and banner for the smaller applications. Get ready to throw the winning Game Shot for your company!

Another tremendous advantage is the clean edge to edge look. With no visible bases or feet exposed, only your top to floor graphics will be focused on. Keep your booth space functional with the 14.5" deep footprint leaving more space for you to move around - a perfect choice where space is limited.

Stay fresh and new by interchanging different banners with the easy to operate grip rail system. No double face tape or velcro needed here, just open and clamp down on your banner material.

The solid Chrome weighted base will ensure the stability and support needed. Don't fuss with a telescoping pole, the included 3-section corded Graphic pole requires no adjusting to the right height needed so you easily achieve the right height every time. Supply us with your full color graphics and we will print them on our high quality Lexan banner material. With a photo finish your artwork will represent you!

Included with each stand is a 3-section corded Pole, Chrome weighted base and Canvas carry bag with inner tube for added protection.

Aim for success ... Finally you'll discover how mobile a banner stand system can truly be. Meanwhile others are lugging around large crates and struggling to lift them in and out of their vehicle, you are traveling light.

Each stand and banner packs small within a convenient Canvas travel bag weighing only 8 lbs. For your next show, take along only as many stands and banners as you need -- throw them over your shoulder and put them in the front seat of your car all with ease.

That is what the Banner-Mate II™ system can do for you - become a more efficient tradeshow attendee. Again you are the one that stands out!

P.S. Don't forget illumination! Add one Halogen Stem light per banner to further enhance and lighten up your custom graphics all for $120.00 each. Easily attaches to the top of the pole. Ship frequently? Shipping case available to hold up to 9 stands and banners.

Can You Catch Up To Me? Trade Show Printing at it's best.


Printing for trade shows takes high quality equipment using special material to achieve the output high standards you are expecting. Years of experience and technical know-how is what sets our company apart from the others.

With over 14 years of printing experience specializing in the trade show industry, Affordable Exhibit Displays, Inc. will make YOU look good.


See us today to experience the printing difference.

Monday, September 15, 2008

Take it and go, a Banner Stand for someone on the run

The final piece to your marketing puzzle has been solved with our BIGscreen Table Top Retractable Banner Stand!

Just listen to a recent customer... "We just received our BIGscreen retractable table top display and couldn't be more happy with it. Thank you for your excellent customer service and quality product. We will definately use Affordable Displays in the future." -- Lynn, Rolling Rock Club

BIG Graphic, Simple Concept ... Now that you have hit the visual jackpot with our BIGscreen Retractable Table Top Banner Stand, what are you going to do? Communicate of course! Open up and communicate to your viewers exactly who you are and what you can offer.

Here's how simple it works: This portable table backdrop offers a one piece jumbo graphic that unrolls from it's base, hooks to a pole and stands 60" high overall. Profit from this BIG idea and put the retractable BIGscreen table top banner stand to work for you and your organization!

Business to business ... Get out and about with our BIGscreen Retractable Table Top Banner Stand! The convenience of this self-contained portable retractable banner stand has no limits! Just carry and go! Weighing only 10 lbs. anyone can use our BIGscreen Retractable Table Top Banner Stand.

What a great resource to have around, with the built-in carry handle and telescoping pole - set up is less than 30 seconds. Being a table top unit it will provide minimal table coverage allowing more room for you to display your brochures or product. The two swivel-out feet provide the steady base needed to endure the rigors of a trade show. Travel confident with the extruded aluminum body casing protecting your graphic during transport and storage.

Design your graphic to suit the pole increments you want to use. The telescoping pole has variable heights at 28", 37" 46" and 55" - just to name a few. Make it known who you are with the one piece jumbo fabric graphic! No velcro to fight with, no aligning and, best of all, no seams to distract the attention from your graphic. Keep your graphic up-to-date by sending your unit back to have your graphic replaced with a brand new one.

Connect you to your viewers ... What a reliable and practical means to great marketing! Suitable for board room presentations, special events, trade shows or for your traveling salespeople. Touch base with your clientele and open up your marketing resources to include the BIGscreen Retractable Table Top Banner Stand!

P.S.: Protect your investment during storage or shipping.

Don't forget to add in the optional Padded carry case or medium duty 6" x 60" Rotunda shipping case.

FYI Printing Process: Banner material is a lightweight, canvas-like fabric.The banner edges are cut and sealed with a hot knife. This material will have no edge curl regardless of the storage time. Printer model used is a 60 HP Designjet 5500ps. Note: This material is intended for indoor use only. If your application is other than tradeshow use (example: in front of a window or under an open tent) please let us know as we have other materials and printing processes available.

Focus on this, focus on what?

Scanning the Trade Show crowd sometimes can be surprising at how many people stopped their every day business to attend the show. Coming from local and from far away places but yet all are there for the same reason.

Yet, year after year attending that same trade show with so many others may seem tedious and repetitive and you feel so what’s the point in all this effort…

BAM! Well, that’s the point to a Trade Show.

But what if you don’t have that ‘BAM’ in your Trade Show, what if you don’t have that ‘something new’? What’s the point then?

The point: if nothing else, a Trade Show is no better a place to form new relationships while maintaining and reinforcing the existing relationships.

Here are FIVE strategeies to keep you and your business going. Because the point is: reinforcment of strength in both presense and relationships.

Tip 1: Focus on Features. Does every user of your product or service know it completely from the in to the out? Doubt it! Try taking your most overlooked features and push them. Get them recognized as a 'new' benefit.

Tip 2: Focus on the Future. Is something new and exciting coming but not quite there? Are you starting to focus on eco-friendly processing but it's not quite ready to unveil how. Start the buzz talk now, ahead of time, to get your new and old prospects talking and especially wanting that new service or item. Jump start it now.

Tip 3: Use the Proctor & Gamble strategy to make something old something 'New and Improved'. Here and there you may notice they use that on their laundry detergeant, shampoo brands, etc. If you have changed your product and it is New and Improved well say it. No need to reinvent the wheel when you can just enhance what you already have.

Tip 4: Focus on the People. Take your best faces and best workers and put them out there. The ones who make your products, the ones who make your services run smoothly. Put a face on the action behind the scene.

Tip 5: Foucs on Service. Have great customer service. Keep on proving it. Highlight your best services that make your customer's happy to work with you.

So, the point is even if you think you don't have something new to say, step back and really think about it. You will find something new based upon what you already have.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Ready, Set, Smile.. time for Trade Show pictures

Bring your camera! There's a whole list of things to remember to bring but don't forget your camera. After all the work that goes into creating an exhibit, time spent at the show and the traveling involved, a picture to remember it all by will be helpful in the future.

A camera at your next trade show is a great way to show off the exhibit and the atmosphere at the show to colleagues who could not be there, give yourself a reference point for next year, and to use in advertising as well. Remember to take pictures of things you want to change, so you can remember what not to do next year.

Try this... if you want to use your photos for professional print publications, or if you want to blow them up to make graphics, make sure your camera takes high-resolution pictures.

Tip: Pictures taken with regular 35-mm film or digital pictures taken in the TIFF format with at least a 300-dots-per-inch resolution are your best bets. Digital cameras with at least 3 Megapixels usually offer this option. Cameras that only take pictures in low-res JPEG formats are fine for your Web site, but are not good enough quality for print publications.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Did you know?

The Olympic Games is the largest single broadcast event in the world, broadcasted in 220 countries to more than 3.5 billion people. WOW!!! Who knew...

Gabbing At A Trade Show


BLAH -- BLAH ---- BLAH ----- BLAH ------


You advertise with newspapers, magazines, online, before and after the trade shows - the list goes on and on. Has that been working for you? Of course, your still in business aren’t you. But, a whole new world can open up with this marketing tactic at your next trade show.
Let’s see if you can guess it:

1. It is rarely talked about and has the potential to boost you not only in general but at a Trade Show tool.
2. If done right, it costs nothing.
3. If you have a great product it should come easy to you.
4. It carries far more weight than any of the other media methods above.
Can you guess what it is? If you answered Word of Mouth Marketing, you were right. Word of Mouth Marketing is a ‘consumer-to-consumer’ based marketing technique.

Myth: Word of Mouth Marketing is about getting others to spread your ‘marketing message.’

Truth: Word of Mouth Marketing is really about building a great product and letting your customer pass on the news however they feel.

Word-of-Mouth marketing builds immediate value and worth for your company/product because it comes from a trusted source – business partners, peers, relatives, friends and so forth. How many times have you tried that new razor or brand of gum just because someone else told you how great it was? I bet you can think of at least one time and it may even be recent. That was Word-of-Mouth advertising – effortless to do and great for the product.

But how can this be encouraged and transfer over into a trade show environment? Word-of-Mouth can greatly increase the interest at your booth during a trade show.Try some of these simple techniques to help boost the word that is spread about you at a trade show.

1. Engage the attendees. Like we have said before it’s all about keeping the attendee entertained. Product demonstrations are a great way to engage the attendees giving them the ‘wow’ factor you are looking for. The ‘wow’ factor is what prompts them to turn around and whisper in the ear of others – check out xxx’s booth, their product is really cool.

2. Interact with them. Take their photo at your booth. Utilize this a couple of ways: either send a white paper after the show with their photo or let them know you will be using it in your newsletter or posted on a web page thanking all of the visitors you had. Conducting interviews or surveys gives you an opportunity to mingle and gather valuable feedback information all at the same time.

3. Ask their opinion. Asking for their honest opinion of your product or service can prompt conversation as well. This is a opportunity to get some feedback from the end users, giving you an incite into what they may be saying to others out there. Ask if they have ever recommended your product to anyone they know. This may give you a good idea on how word of mouth works for you.

4. In last months July newsletter, we talked about choosing your Promotional giveaway. Well, this little item is also intertwined with word of mouth at the trade show. If it unique enough the show-goers will be spreading the news – visit booth # to get your own. The giveaway can work for you throughout the whole show. A carrying type item will do the advertising for you.

5. Lastly, start early with your advertising efforts. Promote your strongest reason to get the attendees to start talking about visiting your booth before the show even begins. Enticing them to tell their fellow associates attending the show will draw more visitors to you. In the end more word of mouth will be spread.

Remember, it’s not about you, it’s about your product and how much they – the users – like it. The more buzz you create the greater word spread will be achieved. Isn’t that what you are aiming for?

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Trade Show Tips - Spread the Word


T.I.P.S. #1
Try encouraging referrals, offer incentives, discount the next order or send a gift - do whatever it takes to encourage your current customers to spread the word and start talking about your product with everyone they know. But, keep in mind, it only works if it’s a great product/service backed by great customer support and the honest belief in your product/service. Simply put – that is the key.

T.I.P.S. #2
Ask for testimonials. Why? People believe testimonials and you can use them to your benefit too by adding them to your advertising campaigns.

Friday, August 8, 2008

Try our Instant Idea & Advice on Your Promotional Give Away

Your promotional giveaway is the symbolic item representing your company’s image and reputation. Don’t think so? Well, it does. Your giveaway is your company’s image carried around at the show that can catch potential clients attention and it’s part of your advertising campaign when it arrives home with your attendee. It may end up on their desk at the office or at home working for you day after day.

But, why put so much emphasis on it - it isn’t a pair of diamond earrings or anything? The point is to make your visitors stop by your booth for just long enough to learn something about your company. Having an effective ‘tool’ to grab them and keep them around will help you gather the leads you are trying to obtain.

It’s the second most important visual piece to your trade show marketing efforts – your display being the first. So, before it’s too late, get rid of the ‘Blah’ trade show giveaway. Spark the interest of others at the show with your next giveaway item.

Give yourself some guidelines when choosing your promotional item. A treasure chest full of treats awaits. Most view the giveaway item as either the most fun trade show decision or the absolute hardest. Endless choices, where to start… from memory sticks, bouncy balls, to calculators, key chains, and mouse pads, also mini radios, the always bright highlighter and the ever popular pen -- all of these and more. So, what suits you all depends on what your ultimate objective is.

With so many choices available, what will fit your company best? We’re hoping this helps.

>> Sample products are great to giveaway and very effective. For example: a day spa may give away samples of the most popular lotion or facial mask.

>> Develop a theme for the show and base your promotional item on that theme.

>> Tip on saving money – stretch it if you can… Order a higher quantity for a better, lower price per piece. Try this… double your trade show giveaway by turning it into a Thank You Gift for your daily customers. This can save money and promote future uses.

>> Price no object… keep in mind the cost spent doesn’t mean a better impression. You may not have to spend as much as you think.

>> Go Green your objective… recycled promotional products are the latest rave. From tote bags, 100% organic cotton beach towels, bamboo shaft umbrella to a simple ball pen made from 100% renewable corn. Hop on the Go Green train today.

So, what other options are there.

>> Can’t decide on what ‘item’ reflects your company best… opt for the Gift Certificate or Coupon route - a valuable item to encourage future purchases.

>> Information give away… what if you’re a ‘sell your mind’ kind of company such as, motivational speakers, freelance copywriters, graphic designers? You get the idea – pay for their brain kind of a service. Well, they have no physical ‘product’ so what could they give other than the traditional pen? How about a “How To: Booklet”, DVD or CD with custom label - free information on tips and techniques is a valuable use-it-now-tool. Go ahead and try the information give away. Provide them with your knowledge for free is also another way of wowing the visitor with what you have to offer. Just make sure it is helpful and is related to the target audience.

Make your promotional item work for youafter the trade show is all said and done.

Promote your company after the show… by utilizing your giveaway to promote website activity by coding each giveaway with a serial number. After the show, post the winning number on your website. They will have to visit your site to find out if they won. The potential website visit will give them yet another chance to become familiar with the products/services you offer. But be careful, make sure you tell them about the Bonus gift or they won’t go to your website.
Know how to distribute your promotionalitems effectively.

>> “Gift grabbers” Stop them dead in their tracks!: You’ve seen it, they probe your booth for that ‘free item’ and then they’re off to the next. So… combat this and don’t stack them on your table! Your gift is not necessarily free-for-the-taking and you certainly don’t want to diminish the value of the ‘gift’ if everyone can have it.

>> Try Personal selection: Personally hand select each ‘gift’ recipient. This opens a 1-on-1 conversation allowing you to qualify with whom you are speaking and reiterates your appreciation of their time and booth visit.

>> You give and YOU get method: This one takes a bit more effort on your part but may lead to the best pay off. Use a Lead form. Have the prospect fill out a very short form asking no more than 4 quick questions. Include a spot where they can leave their contact info too. Once completed reward them with your ‘free gift’. You give them something tangible and in return YOU get an open door for the future to contact and follow up.

Ultimately, your trade show giveaway does not make or break the overall true success of your show. But, it should be viewed as a tool – a very significant tool – a marketing tool with the magnitude to remain in the forefront of the potential client’s mind and life.

Are Your Trade Show Booth Staffers Ready?

“A positive attitude is an individual choice that impacts the whole team.” The people that staff your Trade Show booth are an investment in the overall success of the show just as the display and graphics are. They make up the ‘feel’ of your booth. Not only should the booth staffers be an expert with your product or service, they must be your most ‘people oriented’ individuals as they represent your image. Be sure to choose your booth staffers wisely!

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Tips to Improve Your Trade Show Image


Introductions… where do I start?



Establishing an instant bond is crucial when introducing yourself. A little thought and practicing can go a long way in achieving the best YOU that you can give.

Meeting new people is something everyone in business deals with on an ongoing basis and it all seems like common sense as to what you should do. Here is the simple stuff: smile, make eye contact, and maybe even offer a nice confident handshake.

Do you do it every time you meet someone new? Probably not. Here are the reasons why you should. Try a nice bright smile (fresh breath too) which is inviting and creates the feeling of a warm positive vibe. Eye contact shows you are focused on listening and you care. A controlled handshake demonstrates self confidence; a minimal squeeze is all that is needed.

You offered a smile, made the eye contact and shook hands. Now, what do you say?? Being a specialist in your specific field is what sets you apart from the rest. Properly conveying what you ‘specialize in’ can make or break the interest from a potential client standing in front of you asking, “What do you do?” Your Goal: respond with a well-chosen description to engage them in conversation.

Let’s start with some examples. Take a lawyer for instance. When you hear someone say “I’m a lawyer” your automatic thought is a question. What kind of lawyer are you? Stop the questioning in advance with your well thought out response. Try this, “I practice entertainment law and I draft contacts between film and production companies and movie stars.” Now that gets your listeners attention.

Or let’s take a writer. “What do you do?” Response is “I’m a writer.” Again, well, what kind of writer is the question that will instantly pop in your listeners mind. “I work with non-profit organizations writing their monthly newsletters that are sent to their sponsors.”

Specific and to the point is what you need to aim for in your response. Work out what you do by coming up with a few responses that will pique your listeners curiosity to make them want to talk to you longer. Hook, line and sinker.

Remember… practicing does make a difference in the quality of your actions and responses so start rehearsing in the mirror or to your spouse or friend. You may even chuckle while doing it creating the warm vibe you are aiming for.

Monday, August 4, 2008

3 Ideas to Capture Trade Show Leads

Trade Show Lead Gathering TIPS

Preparing for and attending your next presentation may be a lot of work, but the real value of being at a trade show — why it's worth your time & money — comes when you follow up on the leads and contacts you make. Here are a few simple ways to capture those leads:

--Business Card Gathering is a great way to have all of your potential prospects information in one spot.

--Create a lead gathering form to fill out and staple their business card to. It could also be a survey for your prospect to fill out with four to six simple questions and a section for them to note contact information to follow up.

--Obtain their information in a less obvious way by asking them to sign up for your Newsletter or by having them sign up for a giveaway on your service or product. A win-win situation!


All attendees want to give their information in a very short period of time, so try to keep it simple. Also, be sure to organize all forms and business cards at the end of each day of the show, while all is still fresh in your mind. Positive response is everything in the business world -- not just by the first impression either, the second and third count too.

New Way to Capture and Keep Clients Around

Following up on Trade Show Leads

Lead gathering and building future relationships, both new and old, is what a Trade Show is all about. Your communication with new and old clients should be a positive one making them want to come back, but what should you do to make that happen?

When the show or meeting is all said and done, what is the next step? It should be to follow up, shouldn't it? How do you follow up and what method should you use? First things first: Timing. Always, follow up by the end of one week of the show date with any follow up avenue you take. Strike while the iron is hot!

Here are the traditional ways:
>> A personal phone call always makes a positive personal impact. This should be done the following business day – wait any longer and they may not remember. Keep good notes and refer to the conversation you had when you last spoke at the show.
>> Direct mail to send specific information – other than what you have already given to them. This must be sent within one week from the show date and try to include a hand written note to add the personal touch.

Here is a NEW way to show your potential prospects and returning customers that their relationship to you is important, before, during and after. Try a Pre-printed CUSTOM Post cards, Cards, or Tri-fold brochures from an online service. Use SendOutCards.com, they specialize in YOUR custom greetings.

SendOutCards.com is an On-Line mailing service that allows you to send individual or bulk Custom printed Post cards, Cards, Tri-fold brochures and all for less than you think. You can connect with your clients anywhere at anytime! They print it, stuff it and mail it -- all for less than a greeting card at the store. An actual stamp placed on the front for that added personalization, just as though you did it yourself!

Monday, July 28, 2008

What does Affordable Exhibit Displays, Inc. do?


If you are searching for portable trade show products such as, pop up displays, table top display board, banner stands, brochure holder, portable furniture or digital printing you've come to the right place. Here, at Affordable Exhibit Displays, you'll find many display options and printing services from which to choose.

But first, we're celebrating 14 years of business dedicated the trade show industry! Affordable Exhibit Displays welcomes you to shop our trade show displays and exhibit products. We give you an all access pass to view detailed photos and pricing on our user-friendly website. Where Exhibit Displays and Graphics ... It's all we do!

We know that the trade show, convention, exhibition, or other promotional event you may be attending might not always be local. That is why we have based our product line on portable, lightweight and easy to set up display products.

On our website, Affordable Exhibit Displays , you'll find some traditional tradeshow display styles such as flat panel displays in both tabletop and freestanding, along with modern styles such as pop up trade show displays also in table top and freestanding.

Attract business at your next convention or event by adding custom printed trade show display graphics to any one of our exhibit booth options. With our in-house digital printing capabilities, you have come to the right place to purchase your complete exhibit booth.

Always portable and dependable are the display banner stands - use alone or along with your existing trade show booth display. A very popular banner stand option is the Retractable banner stand, also known as roll up banner stand, pull up banner stand and telescoping banner stand. They effectively and conveniently hold your marketing messages allowing you to give the effective visual impact you need. Your banner design will catch the eye of potential clients and competitors. Of course, we offer much more, such as single sided banner stands and double sided banner stands packages available with banner and stand included.

And, there's more, all digital printing is done here at Affordable Exhibit Displays. We pride ourselves on continually providing the quality work you have become accustomed to.

Stand tall with freestanding display towers. With the multiple sides of a tower you ensure maximum exposure of your advertising materials and the Velcro receptive fabric allows for your exhibit trade show booth display to be updated as frequently as needed.Don’t miss out on the chance to own a Mark Bric BannerUp banner stand or MultiMaster banner stand. Backed by their 10 year warranty you can’t go wrong. Change your banner easily with the patented banner change system, enabling you to replace graphics in no time. Need height? The MultiMaster banner stand is able to reach an incredible 10' tall.

Our product line includes the accessories that help you take charge! Products like portable counters and podiums, aluminum director chairs, portable folding tables and table throws.In a nutshell, the whole secret to our success at Affordable Exhibit Displays is we believe value comes from high quality products, great selection, and of course competitive pricing. We appreciate your visit, and look forward to serving you.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Designing your Trade Show Booth - How to Stand out in the Crowd

Typical trade shows are loud, crowded and filled with colorful distractions. How do YOU stand out? Just like good advertising, effective trade show display graphics can make or break your show image and impact upon the passers by.

3-D marketing comes to LIFE! This is an advertisers dream: interactive, touch, feel, use and see all right out there for you to use. And for a sales person, there is nothing better!
You may have tried these medias to get your name out there:
> Newspaper ads: small with little creativity allowed along with a broad audience that can flip the page in seconds
> Brochures: very specific and full of color but may get lost In the paperwork shuffle
> Billboards: large and eye catching with a broad audience traveling by in seconds
>>> A trade show display is unlike any other media allowing you to provide large images full of color and pizzazz AND all in front of your target audience with you standing right there to catch the sales. At a trade show you have 3 SECONDS… that’s it. That is all the time you have to spark the passers by and inspire them to ask questions that convert into sales.

BUT HOW? YOUR MAIN GOAL: APPEAL TO YOUR CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS AND WANTS. A message that is short and to the point is the best angle to take. Here are some tips that may ignite the creative side in you allowing your company to display its best image.

1. Photos or illustrations? Photos are always preferred over illustrations. Photos are more credible, easily understood and have a bigger impact with the consumer. Take your own photos or for more generic photos use high quality stock photography. Good websites we have found are www.bigstockphoto.com or www.istockphoto.com.

2. Colors and tones:
> Limit the main colors to less than three
> Complimentary colors = red + green, orange + blue, yellow + purple
> Monochromatic colors = several shades of the same color are harmonious and stable
> Cool colors like blue, green and white are professional yet they may not be attention grabbers
> Warm colors like yellow, orange and red attract more attention but use them wisely since overuse can cause an overload and defeat the purpose

3. Words, words, words… how many words should be used? Try and keep it under 10 words or less and no more than 5 lines. You don't need to list all your product information on your display; that might lead to information overload - save the details for your handouts. Lead with your strongest benefit first then the next relevant benefits to follow – if you have a 30 year warranty and no one else does, then shout it out! Most importantly, keep to your branding guidelines and keep all text within the top half of the display design.
Some simple tips to follow:
> A single sentence, phrase, or word
> Use concrete facts that are a benefit – what makes you different
> Your tag line or one sentence that says it all
> Bullet lists are always a great way to show benefits

4. Utilize power words (power phrases or action verbs) - these are words used to help make a statement stronger and will effectively state your products benefits.
Use power words such as:
> Exclusive or Ranked
> New or Uncovered
> Sold or Established
> Or in a phrase such as:
> Power, Performance and Speed
> Guaranteed on time, every time
> Save time. Save Money.

5. List your Website as the contact instead of your street address, phone or fax numbers which most likely won’t be remembered. Display your website by making the name a different color than the “www” and “.com”. Or if multiple words make up your website, try displaying it like this: www.AffordableDisplays.com. Capitalizing the first letter of each word will make it easier to read.

6. Here are some don’ts to keep in mind:
> Don’t use highly technical vocabulary unless you are certain the reader will understand
> Don’t use font types that can not be seen from a distance
> Don’t use long paragraphs
> Don’t use low quality photos (such as from the web), they will only take away from your design

Final note: clearly communicating your company information in as few words as possible will benefit you in the end. Showing large, high quality photo(s) & colors will promote your products and make it easier for people to remember you.

Lastly, add lighting to help brighten up your booth space to draw the focus to your display design. This will create a warm inviting atmosphere that will attract your prospects to you.


ACT NOW!
Don’t get caught in the embarrassment trap at your next show, start planning ahead! Take your display out now and check to see if your display and design covers all the bases mentioned above. If it doesn’t then you’ve got some work to do.

Now is the time to create the positive buzz at your next show, whether your display is new or old.

Pin Point YOUR Trade Show Display Style

Generating leads and making sales are your priorities and your trade show booth - both the physical space and the display – can help you do this. When you are displaying a trade show booth, you want to project just the right image for your company; one that makes potential clients want to learn more after their first glance.

So let’s walk through some of the most popular options to choose from in the wide variety of displays out there today. We are sure one of these will suit your specific show needs.

BANNER STANDS ... Tempt your potential prospects with a versatile banner stand. These are a hit in the trade show industry! These lightweight portable displays are designed with your transporting needs in mind and most come with an easy to carry bag. Add your eye catching banner design and potential clients and competitors will notice your company.

The two main types of banner stands are:
Retractable banner stands: Similar to a household window shade, pull the banner up from base and hook to top of the center pole- Banner retracts down into base- Generally comes with carry bag- Set up time is seconds- Weighing about 18 lbs. - Great for the quick, one person shows

Non-retractable banner stands: Simple design includes weighted base and center pole with rollable banner material.- Roll your custom banner up manually for storage- Generally comes with carry bag- Set up in a few minutes. - Weighing about 15 lbs. - also work for the one person shows-some models even connect together withmagnetic to form a large graphic wall.

Banner stands come in a wide variety of sizes. Widths and heights vary per stand model. Typically, you will see a width of 24”-36” and a height from 72”-84”. A banner stand can be used alone on the floor, set on a table or in addition to your already existing display unit. Use during the one day show, in a church setting, business lobby, career fair, or during your next big presentation to impress the higher-ups. These simple stands have the ability to impress in any setting.

TABLE TOP DISPLAYS or FULL SIZE DISPLAYS ...Attract attention with a table top display and use it as a powerful resource to showcase what you have to offer. Table top displays are perfect when you're limited by space or budget. And how easy they are to use by a single person -- simply unpack, unfold and set on a table. Take advantage of the left over front space on the table by displaying handouts or small products, use a laptop for demonstrations or as a writing area. Being so portable and lightweight anyone can be on their way to fantastic trade showing with a table top display.

Control the flow to you and your presentation with a freestanding full size display. Utilizing the full size display is a great way grab attention. Free floor standing most are approximately 90” (7 ½’) tall and come in a wide variety of widths most commonly 6’ to 20’ wide. These booths are designed to be portable so they are easy to bring from one event to the next. Most are single person set up but some require two or more to help.

Table top and full size displays are available in these most common styles:
Panel display: with permanently connected panels or individual panels that connect together- Traditional style - May have double sided or single side panels- Usually covered with a VELCRO® receptive fabric- Easy graphic changing

Pop up display: modern style with a characteristic curve - Modern style - Generally comes with everything you need to get started- Usually has VELCRO® receptive fabric panels, aluminum frame and a wheeled compact shipping/storage case- Easy graphic changing- Optional wrap around graphics available- Generally come with a manufacturer's warranty on the frame components

Full size free standing floor displays have the ability to connect multiple units together to form larger versions for the nationals shows but can be used independently for the state-wide shows.

ACCESSORIES ...Accessorize and complete the function of your booth by adding these items:
- Tall folding director chair - rest your feet and sit at eye level
- Podiums or counters - interactive stations or use as a barrier
- Folding tables - travel without worry of table size
- Throw covers or Table runners - cover the table and show your image
- Literature stands - holds hand outs neatly in one spot
- Projector screens - PowerPoint presentation made easy

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Why do Trade Shows?

Exhibiting at a trade show can offer you another avenue to get in front of a lot of customers and prospects in a relatively short period of time. With trade shows going on in convention halls all around the world, new contacts are made every day. Knowledge sharing is happening right now!

Education is what trade shows are all about. Whether attendees are catching up on the latest trends and techniques discussed at seminars, exhibitors informing buyers about their newest products/services or show-goers walking the aisles expecting to come out with more information than with which they arrived, knowledge was the main objective - getting it, expanding it, using it.

Attending a trade show - even during a down economy - can be the best vehicle to obtain that knowledge and receive ideas that can help you make educated decisions on how to help your company move forward. Move forward by learning something new like that special technique or process you've been putting off, move forward by introducing that new product you've worked so hard on, move forward by getting that edge you need.

Or if you feel your business is in slow mode, you may need to apply some creative thinking to your business – step out of the box and tap into your creative side. Attending a trade show can pump up your creativity locked inside and provide the momentum needed to take the action to move forward. Get that push you need from a trade show!

Here's another reason to consider: visibility is important. If you've consistently attended an industry show in the past and suddenly do not, your absence may send a negative message about your business to your employees, suppliers and worse - your competitors. Keep going even if you think its not profiting you - what you don't know is that it is.

The TRADE SHOW is an ideal vehicle to obtain the knowledge that you need to help you strategize, improve operations and make smart decisions to help you compete and win. You and your business should be apart of the action - starting right now!

PS: How about this tip: Remember that most shows also publish daily news bulletins -- both print and online -- use that to your advantage for recognition before, during and after the show.