Marshall Yard:

Trade shows are like a parade in reverse - you have about three seconds to capture an attendee’s attention. Your exhibit, ideally, should be an accurate - and aesthetically pleasing - representation of the quality your company embodies.

Getting Started

As you ponder the size, type and functionality, ask yourself the following questions:

• What are your marketing objectives for this show? 
• How is your organization perceived in the industry? Do you hope to change that perception?
• Will your marketing objectives change for each show?
• What’s your ideal marketing environment (ie. private meetings, demonstrations)?
• At how many events do you exhibit nationally?
• What type of exhibit space will you reserve (island, inline, etc.)?
• How much are you able (or willing) to invest in your display?
• What’s most important to you - design or cost?
• Who is your audience? Does it vary by show or region?

Choosing a Trade Show Exhibit Display Company

It’s vital that you research the exhibit houses with which you’re interested in partnering. What is their reputation? Do they offer a full range of services? Will you get a dedicated account management team? What does their Website look like? Believe it or not, a Website - like an exhibit - can be quite telling with regards to marketing expertise and overall quality.

The best place to begin researching suppliers is to visit a trade show and chat with exhibitors. Ask about their suppliers’ level of service and ability to materialize what the exhibitor hoped to communicate.

When you’ve chosen one - or a few - potential exhibit partners, make sure to provide all information necessary: budget, time line, decision-making process, marketing objectives, etc. Try to avoid sending a general RFP or another form of “stock” invitation to bid. You’ll get the best results from direct, personalized communication.

It must be that time of year, there have been several employees talking about these events.   Because of my complete lack of knowledge on the activity of a Pine Wood Derby, I really thought these participants were going to be standing out in the icy arctic freeze,  a little bit crazy I thought.   Alas, it is the miniature event that happens during the artic freeze in Chicago and it happens inside.  Who would have known!Catalyst Exhibits, Inc, recently sponsored a car for Dave’s son Craig, he is enrolled in the Cary, IL Cub Scouts Pack 857 - Den 1.  They recently participated in the 2008 Pinewood Derby on January 26th.  This was very exciting for the both of  them since this was their first year participating.The top 10 best times of the 50 cars which were entered in the Derby went ahead and advanced to the finals which will be taking place in Rockford, IL.  later this year. Unfortunately, they did not qualify for Rockford but they did win something else.