#182 - Rewind: How to Crush Expo West

Feb 10, 2025

Guest

Pierre Jamet

Guest

Clara Paye

Guest

Matt Levine

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.

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Episode notes

Intro

00:00 • 1min

Maximizing Expo West Experiences

01:30 • 12min

Maximizing Expo West: Preparation and Strategic Partnerships

13:11 • 2min

Maximizing Trade Show Impact at Expo West

15:26 • 18min

Diverse Networking Strategies at Trade Shows

32:58 • 2min

Building Connections and Overcoming Feedback in CPG

34:33 • 2min

Navigating Trade Show Dynamics

36:21 • 16min

Countdown to Expo West

52:40 • 4min

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.

Tune in now!

Listen in as Matt, Pierre and Clara share about:

Preparation and Goal-Setting
Engaging Attendees with Concise Pitches
Booth Planning and Fresh Samples
Active Engagement and Decoy System
Networking and Grant Opportunities
Sample Distribution and Engagement
Effective Post-Show Follow-ups
Networking with Distributors
Booth Design and Confidence
Booth Management Strategies
Protecting Energy and Handling Criticism
Utilizing Brokers
Business Card Strategies

Episode Links:

Matt Levine’s Website

Matt Levine’s LinkedIn

Clara’s Website

Clara’s LinkedIn

Pierre’s Website

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.

Show Links:

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Visit host Daniel's Linkedin
Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
Episode music by Super Fantastics