We asked some veteran show goers what advice they had for retailers attending the shows, particularly for the first time, and what they won't leave for a trade show without. Here's what they had to say .
SHIRLEE KLAPPRAT, Get it in Stone
"It [the show] can't be done in one day. Give yourself time and make notes on the products you're looking at.
"I don't leave for a trade show without an open mind, flexible budget and good pair of comfy shoes."
BONNIE VANRABAEYS, B's Hive
"Before leaving your store think of what categories you need most and budget for each. It is too easy to get overwhelmed with product. When I place orders, I stagger delivery dates. If it all comes in at the same time space to unpack and put [products] out for display would be a nightmare.
" Don't leave the show without watching what is hot! This might be a colour. Check out the busiest booth. In a nutshell, catch some excitement. If you're not excited about what you're selling it shows."
LINDSAY KO, Ko's Gift Shops
"My advice to a new retailer would be to walk the complete show and take notes; become familiar with the products available, trends, brands and suppliers.
"Don't leave for a trade show without a 'vision' of what you are, what your store is selling and what the perception and first impressions will be to the public. If you don't have a clear, focused vision, neither will your customers. You need to differentiate your store(s) from other stores and competition."
SIGRID WOLM, From the Kitchen to the Table
"Take lots of time, be organized, have a list of necessary items to look for and another list of items that would be nice or complement your business. Stay focused and avoid getting trapped by great deals or offers-walk away and think about it before making a purchase. If it's important for you to meet with a specific supplier, make an appointment prior to the show.
"Don't leave for a trade show without lots of business cards, comfortable shoes and a schedule of important appointments."
JOLANTA SZARYCZ, Jolanta Interiors
"Don't buy everything you see right away. It's easy to do. Take a business card or a catalogue, and then make a short note detailing what it is you liked in the booth. Sometimes you'll see the same thing in three different places at totally different price points or you'll see something that you like better. Once you've done your rounds of the show, you can look at your notes and go back to booths to place orders.
"The top two things I wouldn't leave for a trade show without are a notebook and business cards."