How Many Catalogs and Incentives Should You Prepare for a Vendor Show?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses preparations for vendor shows, focusing on the number of catalogs and incentives to offer. Participants share their personal experiences regarding shipping options, promotional strategies, and tips for engaging with attendees.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses concern about how many catalogs and promotional materials to prepare for a large vendor show.
  • Another participant shares their experience of handing out mini catalogs and recipe cards to everyone, regardless of whether they stop to engage.
  • One consultant mentions using a raffle for orders placed at the event, which has successfully generated enough orders to turn in a show.
  • Another participant advises that direct shipping is preferable to delivering products personally, citing challenges with coordinating deliveries.
  • Several users mention the importance of collecting contact information from attendees for future follow-ups.
  • One participant expresses gratitude for the shared advice and tips from others in the thread.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to shipping and the quantity of materials to bring, with no clear consensus emerging on these points.

Contextual Notes

Participants share their personal experiences and strategies based on various vendor show scenarios, reflecting a range of approaches to engaging with potential customers.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants preparing for vendor shows may find the shared experiences and tips relevant to their own planning and execution of events.

W
welch628
Messages
4
I'm doing a vendor show next week that averages 2500 people. How many catalogs, mini catalogs, wedding registry, etc information do you think I should have on hand? I know I should give out the mini catalog if someone asks for one. What incentives (if any) do you all offer to get people to place orders at vendor shows? Should I have everything ship directly to their homes (charging them more for shipping) or have it all come to me ($4.50) per customer for shipping. Sorry so many questions. This is my first time, and I'm a little nervous about the number of people. Any other suggestions you have would be great! Thank you!!!
 
The other stuff is up to you but I hardly ever have anyone take information from me. I do keep some on hand. I hand out mini catalogs to everyone who asks and recipe cards to EVERYONE!! Get them in their hand even if they are just walking by and don't stop. Shipping depends on you. Generally if they live in my town I will do the regular shipping and hand deliver their products. But depending on how many orders you get that might not be possible.
 
When I do vendor events I "raffle" off the host free product and current host special to everyone who places an order. I've always received enough orders (even at very small events) to turn in a show that evening so I just have my daughter randomly pick two of the names out of a hat. Then I call them and tell them that they can add those things to their order. I don't give them a choice about what they get, I just give the first name the free product and the second name the special.

I always bring about 10 clipboards that have order forms and pens already on them. Plus I bring extra order forms to replace them as I go. I keep them under the table, ready to go. For catalogs, I don't bring many, but I do take one apart and put it in plastic sleeves in a binder at the front of the table. I also print out the price list (just type 'price list' in the search box of CC). I've felt so silly before when customers ask how much something costs and I have to search through a catalog, I find the price list is a little more professional and discreet.

Most important is just be yourself and be friendly. Say hi to everyone that looks your way and smile!! :)

Good luck and have fun!
 
I delivered products once, and that was back when gas wasn't as high. I spent hours delivering this stuff, not to mention the expense. It also was impossible to coordinate one big delivery trip since people weren't home at the same time. I didn't feel comfortable just leaving items on doorsteps. My advice is to direct ship orders unless you see they live nearby. Even then, just 5 or 6 orders could take 5 or 6 separate trips, depending on people's schedules. Just make sure to follow up with out-of-the-box calls.

The main thing from fairs is getting bookings, anyway. Although it is nice to get a show where you can get the host benefits out of it:D

My other advice is to enter contact info into P3 as soon as you can and put a note that you met them at this event. A few years down the road, you will thank yourself for doing that!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Great advice everyone! Thank you so much!
 
dme.grant thank you so much, very helpful tips!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How many catalogs should I bring to a vendor show?

It's generally recommended to bring at least 20-30 catalogs to a vendor show. This ensures that you have enough for potential customers, as well as for follow-ups after the event. Consider the size of the event and the expected foot traffic when deciding on the exact number.

Should I prepare any additional marketing materials besides catalogs?

Yes, in addition to catalogs, you should prepare flyers, business cards, and any promotional materials that highlight current specials or incentives. This helps to create a comprehensive marketing approach and gives potential customers multiple ways to engage with your brand.

What kind of incentives should I offer at a vendor show?

Incentives can include discounts on orders placed at the show, free gifts with purchase, or entry into a raffle for a larger prize. These incentives can encourage immediate sales and help you gather contact information for future follow-ups.

How many incentives should I prepare for a vendor show?

It’s a good idea to prepare at least 5-10 incentives, depending on the size of the event and your budget. This allows you to engage multiple customers and creates excitement around your booth. Make sure to clearly communicate the details of each incentive to attract interest.

What should I do with leftover catalogs and incentives after the show?

After the show, you can use leftover catalogs and incentives for follow-up with leads you collected during the event. Consider mailing catalogs to interested customers or using them in future events. This helps maximize your investment and keeps your brand in front of potential clients.

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