TRADE SHOW APPAREL STRATEGY
“What do I wear?”
How many times has that question popped up in trade show planning meetings? It’s a good question, and one we should spend more time thinking about. Too often, we see company apparel left to an old, tired approach; logos on polos.
How can you avoid the traditional pitfalls of boring, tired trade show attire and design?
Cohesive Design Across the Show
If message is important, and you want to convey a congealed approach – consider a branded merch and apparel strategy. Too often businesses are falling short of strategies that could be solidifying brand loyalty among customers and prospects.
Well-designed, thought-out apparel helps enhance a company’s image by presenting a strategic and intentional approach. Tying trade booth design with the clothes that employees wear helps solidify the experience trade show visitors are going to have interacting with your booth (while eliminating the “what do I wear” question). There’s still room for the traditional button down, dress-up style; consider a dress code among senior sales staff to delineate roles visually to attendees.
Defined, Branded Merchandise and Giveaways
What about trinkets and merchandise brought to the show? Are they well thought-out, intentional items? Are you giving away something that is going to stick in your prospect’s mind? Smart, branded merchandise for both giveaways and sales help edify the value proposition of your company. Consider designs that appeal to your audience’s aesthetic, items that they will remember. The free publicity of a good looking and fitting shirt pays for itself.
While trend hopping can be tempting, old classics still stand the test of time in their practicality and approach. Tote bags are a lifesaver at trade shows as people use them to collect their swag. Consider bigger bags so they find a spot in your prospect’s daily life – on trips to the grocery store or the beach.
Whatever you decide, having a cohesive vision and design will help your branding strategy be an effective one. It should resonate in their minds and be memorable. That way, when it’s time for your prospects to take action, they think of you first.
Having the right design partner can make all the difference. We handle apparel and design for some of the world’s most creative artists. Interested in leveling up your design to be the rock star at your next trade show? Contact us today.