Trade shows and conferences are a great opportunity to get your company’s name out there and meet new clients. But first, you have to consider how you will attract people to your exhibition booth... A well known way is to have trade show giveaways.
Giveaways are a great opportunity for you to cause an everlasting impression on your clients and prospects - so don't forget to include this little detail on your to-do list when planning your exhibition. In the end, everyobody loves free stuff.
The trendiest giveaways
The problem with giveaways is that there are so many items available that it can be really hard to choose which is best for your company and target audience... But one thing we can assure you: the key to the most successful trade show giveaways is to find what hits the sweet spot between unique, useful and attractive. Following these criteria, take a look at our suggestions:
- It must be either unique or incredibly useful. You don't want to find your gifts in some trash can after the event, right? To avoid such tragedy, you must give something handy and/or very unusual. For example, instead of simple pen with your logo on it, how about a portable kit with several modern office utensils (including a USB mug warmer or a screen cleaner?).
- Something that lasts. A rubber or a pencil will eventually disappear, along with your company's logo... So go for something lasting, like a wallet for mobile devices (which is also very useful), a power bank or a tote bag.
- Or something that doesn't last at all. People get tired, hungry and dehydrated after strolling around the fair halls... Why don't you give them a little treat? Have a personalized ice cream cart, a mini candy shop or fruit with yout logo stamped on it... Edible giveaways surely leave a memorable impression (so, the more delicious the better!)
- Think green. Environmentally friendly promo items make people feel good about your company, as it adds a higher quality and thoughtfulness to your brand message. Recycled notebooks, reusable bottles, biodegradable bags or even plants & seeds are a huge hit. Make a positive impact on your customers and on the environment!
- Technology promotional products are also quite trendy. It is no longer a geek thing: nowadays, everybody wants to keep up with the latest technological novelties and to own innovative devices. In this line, these are some popular options you should consider: ftness tracking bands, mobile solar charger, bluetooth speakers, virtual reality goggles, touch screen gloves... (But of course, you'll need a slightly higher budget to invest in this type of gifts.)
- Digital rewards are TOP! If you want to forget about pencils and magnets for good, digital rewards are your best option. Cupons, a special code to download free music, an eBook or an App; these gifts provide flexibility and value, key concepts for the modern consumer! As for the company, this is also a perfect way to deliver relevant, real-world items at a fraction of their perceived value.
- Invest on a good presentation and packaging. Cheap and uncreative promo products evoke a cheap and boring brand. If you want to make a good impression, always remember: presentation is almost as important as the product itself. Your giveways must reflect the tone of your company, whether it is fun, sophisticated or extravagant.
Whatever you decide to offer, just don't forget about this REALLY important detail: everything must be branded.
Make sure all of your materials, giveaways and collateral are consistently branded. Use the same logo, fonts and the same colors across all your material. This way, your propspects will have a tangible reminder of your company in their homes, offices, pockets... and even stomach!