Generally, a trade show is an event created to bring together members of a particular industry to share, demonstrate, and discuss their latest products and services. Typically, major shows take place in large convention centers in populated cities and last several days. In comparison, local business-to-business shows are smaller and may be held at a local arena or hotel, helping area businesses establish connections with local prospects.
Primarily, the main purpose of a trade show is to bring together members of a similar trade or industry. In some cases, trade shows—also referred to as fairs, trade exhibitions, or expos—limit attendance and exhibitors to those within the specific industry. For example, the Consumer Electronics Show limits attendees to professionals in the electronics and technology fields. However, America’s Largest RV Show restricts attendance to industry members for the first few days and then opens to the public for the remaining time.
What Happens at Trade Shows
In addition to showcasing products and services, trade shows provide an exhibit space for companies to demonstrate their offerings. Once at the event, attendees typically receive a schedule of daily activities, such as workshops or presentations led by industry experts.
Moreover, there are opportunities to interact with the media during networking events to promote your business online or on TV. Private or VIP exhibitor events are also often held (for an additional fee), and awards presentations frequently take place on the final day, crowning a “Best of Show.”
In contrast, exhibiting at trade shows provides a different setting to meet potential new customers while also reinforcing relationships with dealers and distributors. As a result, trade shows are often considered the ultimate networking event.
Meanwhile, attending a trade show allows you to become familiar with the latest developments in your industry. In the end, it also gives you the opportunity to secure special show pricing and stay informed about emerging trends.
Costs to Participate in a Trade Show
When it comes to participating in a trade show, costs vary depending on whether you are an exhibitor or an attendee.
For Exhibitors
Typically, trade show costs include a booth space rental fee. Additionally, there are expenses for designing and producing a professional trade show display. Furthermore, companies must account for shipping costs and drayage, which is the fee for unloading the booth and moving it onto the show floor.
In addition, travel and accommodation costs for booth staff should be considered. Finally, marketing materials such as handouts, giveaways, samples, and promotional items also contribute to the overall budget.
For Attendees
While attendees still have expenses, they are generally a fraction of what it costs to exhibit. Typically, attendee costs include an admission fee, along with travel and accommodation expenses for staff.
As a result, attending is significantly more affordable than exhibiting. Therefore, smaller companies often choose to attend instead of exhibit, focusing primarily on networking opportunities.
Popular Trade Show Venues
In terms of scale, some of the largest trade shows in the United States are hosted in major convention centers, including:
-
McCormick Place, Chicago, IL
-
Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL
-
Sands Expo and Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV
-
Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY
-
New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA
Find Trade Shows Now!
For example, here are some notable trade shows across different industries:
-
Washington Auto Show – Washington, DC (950,000 attendees)
-
National Association of Broadcasters (NAB Show) – Las Vegas, NV (89,313 attendees)
-
Craft Brewers & BrewExpo America® – Denver, CO (13,000 attendees)
-
Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) – Indianapolis, IN (28,061 attendees)
-
Aviation Week MRO Americas – Atlanta, GA (10,000 attendees)
-
ISC West – Las Vegas, NV (36,771 attendees)
-
Specialty Coffee Conference & Exhibition – Boston, MA (8,025 attendees)
-
American College of Physicians (ACP) – Philadelphia, PA (10,000 attendees)
-
National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) – St. Louis, MO (14,000 attendees)
-
Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA) – Nashville, TN (8,000 attendees)
-
New York International Auto Show – New York, NY (1,000,000 attendees)
-
National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) – Chicago, IL (4,965 attendees)
-
International Sign Expo (ISA) – Las Vegas, NV (20,140 attendees)
-
NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits – Indianapolis, IN (87,154 attendees)
About AffordableDisplays.com
Finally, our family-owned and operated company designs and delivers high-quality, eye-catching trade show exhibits and displays. If you’re interested in purchasing a portable trade show display for your next event, browse our website or contact us today.
Additionally, don’t forget to like us on Facebook to see more of our portable displays and banner stand options.
