We, at Synergy Design Group, aim to showcase four products for AB Dynamics’ custom designed booth: TV screens with videos, car simulators, and life-size soft pedestrian on top of a soft motorcycle. The client seeks a custom designed booth inspired by our previous design SHRM’s GOCO example, specifically admiring its layout, particularly the Center Tower. They are open to simplifying the tower or using a back wall with a potential lightbox. We’ll also confirm the wall specifications. Drawing inspiration from our SYSCO booth, we aim to create a lightweight, visually engaging design.
Design & Implementation:
We were challenged to create a unique and visually captivating exhibit. Inspired by our GOCO design from SHRM, we knew the layout of the sections, especially the Center Tower, resonated with the client. To address this, we opted to switch the Tower design for a back wall. The TV screens with looping videos, car simulators, and physical products like the soft pedestrian and soft motorcycle were highlighted and the focal point of the design.
Another key consideration was the contour-lightweight aspect. Building on our experience from the SYSCO booth design, we tackled this challenge by employing innovative materials and construction techniques. This approach not only met the client’s need for a visually engaging booth but also ensured that the exhibit remained portable and easy to assemble. Ultimately, our unique solution provided a memorable and interactive experience for attendees while effectively showcasing all four products.
Results:
Our exhibit received outstanding feedback, being lauded as one of the show’s best stands. Looking ahead, we’re planning to reuse the same stand design for two upcoming U.S. events: the current one and NOVI in Michigan, both organized by the same entity. This approach optimizes the use of our exhibit and potentially justifies a purchase investment, as mentioned by the client. We’re also considering expansion opportunities in the U.S. market through NURINA U.S. shows. To ensure our continued success, we’ll follow up in mid-December as part of our future planning process.
We faced several challenges and specific requirements when designing the client’s large trade show booth. The booth, with our products featured prominently, is L-shaped with a 20ft height allowance and the option to create an island. Our goal is to merge technology seamlessly, incorporating three product displays while ensuring an open, clean, and simple design. To meet their needs, we’ll include a central storage closet and create open areas with high tops, a relaxed meeting area with soft seating, and movable poufs. The client prefers a design that highlights storage solutions and accommodates approximately 15 working individuals, emphasizing the importance of design cohesiveness as it’s for two companies within a single booth.
Design & Implementation
When crafting our solution for the large trade show booth, we focused on an open concept to seamlessly unite two companies. We ingeniously connected demo stations with a curved custom overhead structure adorned with graphics. This approach creates a cohesive and engaging experience for both companies, achieving the desired design cohesiveness. Additionally, we ensured ample storage solutions, addressing the client’s emphasis on efficient storage in this 20 x 40 co-branded trade show environment.
Results
Our design of the large trade show booth successfully met the challenge and client’s vision. The L-shaped layout with a 20ft height and island option created a captivating space. Seamless integration of technology and three product displays enhanced the booth’s appeal. The open, clean, and simple design delighted visitors.
The central storage closet and strategically placed high-tops, soft seating, and movable poufs optimized functionality. The cohesiveness of the design effectively brought together two companies, delivering an engaging experience. Notably, the ample storage solutions we provided met the client’s emphasis on efficiency in this 20 x 40 co-branded trade show booth.
We, Synergy Design Group, crafted Ally’s culturally rich 20×20 booth. Addressing their past overcrowding issue, we’ll minimize tables and chairs. Our goal is a captivating, yet distinct back wall like last year’s. Furthermore, they’ve requested a digital menu for scheduling meetings using a QR code or link. Additionally, they desire a check-in table and an agua fresca bar within the booth. Staying true to the digital café theme, our vision includes authentically Mexican-inspired decor with hand-painted signage from the mood board. We’re also planning a selfie booth and a themed photo op back wall to complement the Mexican ambiance.
Design & Implementation:
We crafted a Mexican-inspired café booth featuring a unique photo op back wall with a blend of painted and 3D hanging plants in a 20×20 booth. The booth’s upper frame of the canopy was adorned with a stunning stained glass look decal. For an authentic touch, we incorporated a vintage bar table with a rustic wood top and black pipe legs. To complete the ambiance, we included Spanish-inspired art canvases, ensuring a one-of-a-kind and inviting booth for the client.
Results:
Clients were thrilled with the final design, receiving praise from staff, attendees, and alpfa staff, calling this 20×20 booth the best. Our booth stood out as warm and welcoming, deviating from the common “cookie-cutter” designs. The project proceeded smoothly, and we’re actively addressing regulatory matters to maintain progress. We’re excited to continue designing for them in the future, building on this success and creating more engaging experiences.
Trade shows can be incredibly rewarding for businesses of all sizes. They provide a unique platform to showcase your products or services, connect with potential customers, and network with industry professionals. However, the success of your trade show participation largely depends on how well you prepare. This beginner’s guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure you’re fully prepared for your upcoming trade show. From creating a comprehensive exhibitor checklist to implementing effective promotional strategies, we’ve got you covered.
Section 1: Setting the Stage for Success
Before diving headfirst into trade show preparation, laying the groundwork for a successful experience is essential. Here are the key steps to get you started:
Defining Your Goals
Defining your goals is the first and most crucial step in your trade show journey. What do you hope to achieve by participating in the trade show? Common objectives include:
Generating leads
Making sales
Increasing brand awareness
Networking with industry peers
Having clear and specific goals will serve as your guiding light throughout the preparation process.
Choosing the Right Trade Show
Not all trade shows are created equal; choosing the right one can make a difference. Consider factors such as:
The relevance of the trade show to your industry
The size and reach of the event
The location and logistics of attending
Picking the perfect trade show ensures you present your products or services to the right audience.
Section 2: Building Your Exhibitor Checklist
Now that you’ve set your goals and selected the ideal trade show, it’s time to create a comprehensive exhibitor checklist to keep you on track. Here’s what you need to consider:
Booth Design and Setup
Your booth is the face of your business at the trade show, so it needs to make a strong impression. Consider the following:
Eye-catching graphics and signage
Display materials that showcase your products or services
Comfortable seating for your team and visitors
Adequate lighting to highlight key areas
A well-designed booth will attract attendees like a magnet.
Promotional Materials
Prepare a range of marketing materials to distribute to trade show attendees. These might include:
Brochures and flyers
Business cards
Product samples
Merchandise (branded pens, tote bags, etc.)
These materials serve as valuable takeaways and reminders of your brand.
Technology Setup
Technology is crucial to trade show preparation in today’s digital age. Ensure you have:
Computers or tablets for presentations
Audio-visual equipment for demonstrations
A reliable internet connection for real-time interactions
A tech-savvy booth can help you stand out from the crowd.
Staff Training
Your booth staff plays a pivotal role in your trade show success. Provide them with thorough training on:
Your products or services
Engaging with attendees
Handling inquiries and objections
Using lead capture tools effectively
A well-prepared team is your secret weapon at the trade show.
Logistics and Shipping
Remember the logistics of getting your booth and materials to the trade show venue. Consider:
Shipping options and timelines
Storage solutions for your booth components
Backup plans for unexpected delays
Smooth logistics ensure a stress-free setup.
Lead Capture System
Implement a lead capture system to collect attendee information for follow-up. Which could be a smartphone app or paper forms, but it must be easy to use and reliable. A lead capture system ensures that no potential leads slip through the cracks.
Section 3: Unleash Your Promotional Strategies
Now that your preparations are well underway, it’s time to focus on attracting visitors to your booth. Here are some effective promotional strategies to consider:
Pre-show Marketing
Start marketing your trade show participation well in advance. Use your website, social media, and email marketing to create excitement and invite attendees to visit your booth. Creating anticipation before the event can lead to a more fruitful experience.
Giveaways and Contests
Entice attendees to stop by your booth by offering giveaways or running contests. Ensure the prizes are relevant to your products or services to attract interested leads. A well-planned giveaway or contest can create a buzz around your booth.
Engaging Presentations
Schedule live demonstrations or presentations at your booth. These can effectively showcase your offerings and educate attendees about their benefits. Engaging presentations can captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression.
Networking Events
Don’t limit your interactions to your booth alone. Attend networking events and social gatherings associated with the trade show to connect with industry professionals and potential clients. Building relationships can open doors to future opportunities.
Booth Design Matters
Your booth’s layout and design should be inviting and easy to navigate. Use attractive visuals and signage to grab attendees’ attention and draw them into your space. A well-designed booth can make a significant difference in foot traffic.
Interactive Activities
Incorporate interactive elements like games, quizzes, or virtual reality experiences into your booth. These activities can engage visitors and make your booth a memorable stop. Interactive experiences can create a lasting impression on attendees.
A Post-show Follow-up Plan
Your efforts continue even after the trade show concludes. Prepare a post-show follow-up plan to nurture the leads you’ve generated. Send personalized thank-you emails and provide additional information about your products or services. Effective follow-up can turn leads into customers and partners.
Section 4: Staff Training Tips
Your booth staff is your frontline team; their performance can make or break your trade show experience. Here are some training tips to ensure they excel in their roles:
Product Knowledge
Train your staff thoroughly on your products or services. They should be able to answer questions confidently and provide in-depth information. Product knowledge builds trust with attendees.
Perfecting the Elevator Pitch
Develop a concise and compelling elevator pitch that communicates your value proposition. Encourage staff to use it when engaging with attendees to capture their interest quickly. An effective elevator pitch is your first step in sparking meaningful conversations.
Mastering Customer Engagement
Teach your team how to approach and engage with attendees. Encourage friendly and approachable behavior while respecting personal space. A warm and welcoming attitude can make attendees feel comfortable.
Handling Objections with Grace
Prepare your staff to handle objections and difficult questions gracefully. Provide them with strategies to address common concerns and turn them into opportunities. Handling objections effectively demonstrates professionalism and expertise.
Role Assignments
Assign specific roles to each team member, such as greeting visitors, conducting product demonstrations, or managing giveaways. Clear role assignments ensure that all aspects of your booth run smoothly. Clearly defined roles prevent confusion and enhance efficiency.
Attire and Appearance
Establish a dress code that aligns with your brand’s image. Staff should maintain a professional appearance throughout the event, reflecting positively on your business. A polished appearance instills confidence in your attendees.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, trade show preparation can be rewarding for your business but requires careful planning and execution by following this beginner’s guide and utilizing the exhibitor checklist, promotional strategies, and staff. It can be confusing if it is your first show and if you need help we at Synergy Design Group are happy to help. With our 25+ years of design experience you can expect the best, least amount of stress when we are on your side.
Synergy Design Group designed a sustainable trade show booth for Lapeyre’s four key events. Lapeyre, a safety solutions pioneer, challenged us to enhance their presence at Promat Chicago, Natl Steel Conf Charlotte, PackExpo Vegas, and Natl Safety Expo. These events were vital to their marketing strategy. They needed a booth with a standing kiosk, tables, chairs, space for equipment, Crossover Stairs, a high-top table, TV screen, podium, carpeting, and backdrop graphics. Budget details were unclear, but they sought “best” and “better” quotes with concierge service, excluding reps from setup and takedown.
Design & Implementation:
To meet Lapeyre’s challenge of optimizing their presence at diverse trade shows, we proposed an efficient, cost-effective turnkey rental solution. This custom booth includes a standing kiosk, tables, chairs, dedicated equipment space, a high-top table with a TV screen, a podium, plush carpeting, and a compliant backdrop. What truly distinguishes our solution is its user-friendly design. Lapeyre’s representatives can concentrate on engaging potential customers, while our team takes care of hassle-free setup and takedown.
Additionally, we provide Lapeyre with two comprehensive quotes, one for essential features and another for enhanced options. This flexibility allows them to choose the best fit for their budget while maintaining a top-notch trade show presence. Our partnership with Lapeyre remains strong, with a sustainable approach that repurposes booth elements, minimizing waste and further enhancing their trade show success.
Results:
Our turnkey rental booth solution was a success for both Lapeyre and the environment. It is a sustainable, cost-effective, and easy-to-use solution that can help businesses of all sizes achieve their marketing goals. Lapeyre is planning to use the turnkey rental booth at future trade shows. we’re excited to continue our partnership with Lapeyre and explore innovative ways to enhance their trade show presence further. Our journey together has not only achieved impressive results but also laid a sustainable foundation for future success.
In this case study, our Synergy Design Group team showcases how we helped Accenture transform its WBENC booth and highlight its branding message. Accenture is a global consulting and professional services firm known for its innovative solutions and expertise in various industries. They wanted to showcase their branding and message to potential clients and trusted us to revamp their 20×20 exhibit for WBENC.
We revamped the previous graphics to outshine their last November show, made necessary changes, and adjusted the dimensions and content. Our team respected Accenture’s previous choices, met a tight installation turnaround, and sized graphics precisely from referenced photos for their display.
Design & Implementation: Accenture 20×20 exhibit case study
In the 20×20 custom rental for Accenture for the WBENC event, we took on the task of reimagining Accenture’s graphics. Changing the central message from “Let there be change” to “Build. Scale. Empower.” A bold visual represented this shift: a large purple greater-than sign that divided the graphic into two halves, one wooden and the other vivid purple. This eye-catching graphic shift became our design’s centerpiece, showcasing Accenture’s dedication to transformation and empowerment.
Results:
Our team successfully transformed Accenture’s 20×20 rental exhibit for WBENC. The dynamic graphics, with “Build. Scale. Empower,” impressed attendees, reinforcing Accenture’s message. Our partner client even expressed interest in working with us for the NMSDC show in October. At this time, we exceeded our client’s expectations and highlighted the effectiveness of our design and collaboration for future projects.
We, at Synergy Design Group, assisted WCG in creating a captivating 10×20 custom booth for the DIA Boston show while debuting new branding. Collaborating closely with, WCG, a leading healthcare technology company, we aimed to deliver an immersive brand experience. Recognizing the event’s significance, WCG approached us to create a lasting impact with a visually captivating and immersive booth. WCG emphasized the need for a digital element to boost attendee engagement. They also desired a fresh brand identity by introducing a new branding with a new logo and color palette. We were striving to establish a modern and on-trend presence at the show.
Design and Implementation
We focused on WCG’s new logo and color palette, incorporating LED lights for attention-grabbing visuals. The booth radiated modernity, aligning seamlessly with WCG’s innovative identity. Collaborating with WCG, we designed a sleek and professional booth to highlight the new logo. We worked diligently on ideas to ensure an engaging display. We integrated American Oak Slat Wall panels into the booth’s back wall and return half-wall for product displays and interactivity. A key element was the halo-lit sign, measuring 65″x48″, proudly displaying the WCG logo, radiating a captivating glow with white LEDs. Our expertly crafted booth structure ensured a remarkable brand experience.
Conclusion
Our project, a resounding success, showcased our expertise in delivering captivating booth experiences. By integrating WCG’s new logo and color palette effectively, incorporating LED lights, and paying attention to every detail, the booth stood out at the DIA Boston show. Our collaboration with WCG exemplified our commitment to innovative and engaging designs, solidifying our client’s presence and leaving a lasting impression.
GoCo, a creative HR solutions firm, tackled the challenge of presenting their booth at the SHRM conference in Las Vegas. The client wanted an Interactive booth design with a “Flexibility with HR” theme. They aimed to draw in the crowd, showcase products, and stay within a $40,000 budget. The design included video building, multiple screens, and playful elements while minimizing storage needs.
Design & Implementation:
To create a unique and engaging Interactive booth design at the SHRM conference, GoCo collaborated with Synergy Design Group to craft an unforgettable experience. Utilizing custom graphics, mesmerizing LED light edges were incorporated, drawing attention from afar and creating an aura of excitement. The standout feature was an interactive buzzer game, developed by Synergy Design Group, enticing visitors to participate, win prizes, and enjoy free ice cream, elevating the booth into an immersive HR innovation showcase. Standing at an impressive 16 feet high, the booth structure included a locking closet area for seamless storage, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail that ensured alignment with GoCo’s branding and messaging.
Results:
The collaboration with Synergy Design Group brought remarkable results to GoCo. The innovative booth showcased HR solutions effectively, attracting attention and meaningful connections at the SHRM conference. The interactive game and LED lights engaged visitors, garnering positive testimonials. The investment in video and screens led to a high ROI. GoCo plans to repurpose sustainable elements for future events with Synergy Design Group’s help.
Warped Cigars presented an exciting challenge to create a custom booth: refresh last year’s trade show booth with a 10×20 Island display matching their website’s aesthetic. This Custom Booth’s key elements included a neon sign and comfortable furniture. We integrated new graphics with reference photos, creating a striking wall design featuring their website’s homepage and brand logos. The right wall displayed a neon sign. The custom booth served as storage with a counter and a Nespresso station but no product display.
Design & Implementation
We crafted a Warped Cigars custom booth that mirrors their website’s aesthetic, featuring a captivating wall design with the WARPED logo. An LED counter rental added innovation with sleek white laminate, LED lighting, storage, and charging ports. The design drew inspiration from the previous year’s setup but brought a refreshing experience.
Results
The booth design by Synergy Design Group received high praise from Warped Cigars and trade show attendees, successfully capturing the essence of their website and brand. Incorporating the website’s homepage as a prominent art piece alongside the WARPED logo and brand logos created a visually captivating focal point. The LED counter rental provided practical functionality while adding a touch of modernity to the booth. The successful collaboration and outstanding results have solidified Warped Cigars’ plans to continue working with Synergy Design Group for their future participation in the PCA.’
Want to read more about Synergy Design Group’s Works:
The team at Synergy Design Group rose to the challenge of creating a 10×10 standout booth for Beachview that met all their needs within a compact 10×10 space. Their goal was to design an attractive exhibit that was affordable and low-maintenance while also incorporating digital features. The client wanted a distinctive and customized display that would distinguish them from other vendors and make a lasting impact on visitors.
Design & Implementation:
We fulfilled Beachview’s booth needs cost-effectively. Our team designed a halo-lit aluminum sign with the Beachview icon, measuring 28″ by 28″. RGB LEDs added a dynamic element. We also created custom acrylic lettering, enhancing the brand presence. A Touch Screen Kiosk with custom programming made Beachview stand out. Our interactive slider complemented their brand.
Results:
The custom booth design created by Synergy Design Group exceeded Beachview’s expectations and received positive feedback from both the client and attendees at the SEE Conference. The visually appealing halo-lit fabricated aluminum signage with RGB LEDs showcased Beachview’s brand identity and attracted significant attention. Including the Touch Screen Kiosk with custom, programming provided an engaging and interactive experience for attendees, further enhancing the brand’s impact.
The client even wrote to the President of Synergy Design Group, Luz Lobos, “Thank you so much for such a wonderful experience and great exhibit! It was hands-down the best one there! We would love to be able to use our sign and graphics again”! Overall, the project succeeded, effectively differentiating Beachview from other exhibitors and leaving a lasting impression on attendees and fantastic reviews from Beachview.