Join Matt Levine, founder of Chlorophyll Water, Clara Paye from Unite Foods, and Pierre Jamet of Fishwife, as they share their experiences from Expo West. They dive into preparation tactics to maximize trade show success, from booth design to effective pitching strategies. Learn how to engage with potential buyers, keep samples fresh, and network like a pro using platforms like LinkedIn. Hear their amusing anecdotes about handling challenges and critiques, and discover the importance of authenticity in building long-lasting business relationships.
Proper preparation and goal-setting are crucial for success at Expo West, involving clear strategies and engaging interactions with attendees.
Creating concise and compelling pitches paired with visually appealing product samples can enhance visitor engagement and attract potential buyers.
Effective post-show follow-ups, personalized communication, and leveraging tools for recognition are vital for converting initial interest into business opportunities.
Deep dives
Streamlining Inventory Management
Inventory management can be a daunting task for many businesses, particularly when it comes to tracking ingredients and products across various locations. Utilizing effective software solutions like SIN7 Core can significantly simplify this process, allowing real-time tracking of inventory in one place. Integration with popular tools such as QuickBooks, Shopify, and Amazon enhances this efficiency, enabling businesses to consolidate their operations effectively. Many users express regret for not having adopted such tools earlier, emphasizing their value in managing complex inventory needs.
Maximizing Expo West Participation
Preparation for Expo West is critical for success, and it begins well before the event. Participants should have a clear strategy in place for their booth, including training staff to represent the brand effectively and planning engaging interactions with attendees. Setting achievable goals and reaching out to potential leads before the event can help establish meaningful connections. Moreover, participants must be memorable; a well-prepared and enthusiastic team can significantly influence follow-up success post-expo.
Effective Booth Strategies
Engaging potential buyers during Expo West requires a blend of effective pitch strategies and product presentation. Founders are encouraged to create concise, compelling pitches that invite interest without overwhelming potential clients. Utilizing innovative sampling techniques, such as offering fresh and visually appealing product samples, can enhance the overall experience for visitors. Furthermore, maintaining an inviting and energetic booth atmosphere encourages foot traffic and fosters valuable conversations with attendees.
Building Relationships at the Expo
Networking at Expo West extends beyond simply attracting buyers; it involves forging lasting relationships with various stakeholders, including distributors and fellow exhibitors. Engaging everyone who passes by with kindness and a smile can create unexpected opportunities, as potential allies may not immediately identify who they might become in the future. Handing out business cards and collecting contact information allows for effective follow-up after the event. Additionally, participants are reminded to protect their energy and to remain approachable throughout, ensuring they maximize every opportunity for connection.
Post-Expo Follow-Up Techniques
Following up with connections made during Expo West is essential for converting initial interest into tangible business opportunities. It is advisable to wait a week or two before reaching out, allowing buyers to settle back into their routines after the busy event. Personalizing follow-up communication with notes about previous conversations or notable interactions can help stand out in a crowded inbox. Using tools and resources such as brokers or sharing images of the booth can reinforce recognition of the brand and cement the relationship established during the event.
Let’s rewind, refresh, and get you ready for this year’s Expo West! 🎉
This episode originally aired in February 2024, but trust us—the insights are still absolute gold.
Step into the vibrant world of Expo West in this episode of the Startup CPG podcast where Daniel Scharff is joined by startup CPG sales legends Matt Levine from Chlorophyll Water, Clara Paye from Unite Foods, and Pierre Jamet from Fishwife. Join them as they share insider tips for Expo West - what to do before, during, and after the show to make the most of your opportunity.
From prep hacks to pitch perfection, discover how to wow potential buyers. Master booth setup, keep samples fresh, and ace networking using LinkedIn and CPG Slack. Know the advanced strategies like the "buyer pick 'n roll," stand out in the crowd, and get tips on chasing down a buyer in the aisle.
Whether you're a pro or a rookie, this episode gives you expert advice, anecdotes, and actionable strategies that can elevate your trade show adventure.
Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.
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