Exhibiting can seem like a big, risky upfront investment for some businesses in comparison with relatively safe advertising streams that take little investment such as online adverts.

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In reality, it is actually one of the best forms of advertising with the biggest impact on both the bottom line and on you as an exhibitor. Here are 5 reasons why:

  1. Face-to-face

For businesses offering services, it’s rare to physically see potential customers in a face-to-face environment rather than as visit statistics from your website. So not only do exhibitions provide this rare opportunity to put a face to a name and perhaps to meet with current clients, but it also allows businesses to get valuable feedback about their services.

Many businesses use exhibitions as an opportunity to do a bit of research – asking customers about their needs which can then help to develop their products or services further.

It also provides an opportunity to physically show visitors what you do and why they should choose you. Lure them in with giveaways and goodies and you may have a customer for life.

  1. Potential buyers under one roof

If you choose the right exhibition to attend, then most people visiting exhibitions have purchasing power that are highly targeted to your audience.

Each person visiting the exhibition is there to learn, find new suppliers and to see what’s new. Make their job easier by making sure you have high visibility with clear and eye-catching graphics.

  1. Brand awareness

Exhibiting at events also offers a fantastic opportunity to raise brand awareness – especially if you are a new business.

Using displays such as banner stands from online retailers like http://www.marlerhaley.co.uk/banner-stands/ will help to show visitors exactly who you are and why they should stop by your stand. Using your logo at the very top followed by your strapline, or one simple message is best to make sure they know who you are and can see this information above a crowded exhibition hall.

  1. Prove you’re the best

Exhibitions provide a unique opportunity for most businesses to be right next to your competitors. For visitors, they can directly compare all of your competitors and your stand in seconds to decide which is best for them.

To increase the chance of them visiting your stand (and not your competitors next door!) make sure you show off your USPs to set you apart from them.

It may help to train your staff before the event too, to make sure that they are well versed in the points that set you apart. This will help to make sure that these important messages are remembered by visitors if they’re comparing your products and services.

  1. Proven ROI

Face to face events have proven to have one of the highest return on investments for any marketing channel. With a room full of visitors looking for your sort of products and services, it can be easy to make a good profit margin.

Just make sure that your sales team are ready to act professional, show off your products or services to their best ability and be able to follow up leads quickly after the event and you’re sure to have a successful exhibition.