Why Take Time to Attend a Major Trade Show

Why Take Time to Attend a Major Trade Show

November 3, 2016  |  Trade Shows

Often times, we will receive a call from a member asking why they should take time out of their schedule to attend a major trade show such as the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) in Atlanta, GA, which is held every two years. 

Our office believes that our members can NOT afford to not attend trade shows. What people often forget is even if they are not looking for a new piece of equipment, or looking for a supplier of a product, there is no better learning environment anywhere. 

Managers are often wearing multiple “hats” to keep the business running and profitable due to the fact that companies have become as lean as possible in recent years. 

This causes managers to develop tunnel vision and stay with what is comfortable with them. 

Business owners are not looking to change what is working. The downside to this thinking is that there may be a new supplier or product available that can make your business even more profitable. 

In addition to the possibility of finding a new supplier, you also are able to find out what your competition is offering your customers. They may be rolling out a new product that you were unaware of. 

Attending the show allows you an opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and to hopefully maintain your customer base. 

For those that are considering equipment, this is a perfect opportunity to compare similar types of machines (that are actually operating) from a variety of manufacturers. This time-saving feature of trade shows can compress weeks of research into a few days. With time being scarce, this alone is worth the price of admission. 

The WPMA continues to exhibit at all major shows and encourages our members to either exhibit or at least attend and walk the show. Knowledge gained helps members to remain competitive in today’s global marketplace. 

For more information, readers may contact Philip Bibeau, Executive Director at 978-874-5445.