"The real trick is to find a way to provide some ROI for sponsors and organizers of an event. That would be tough to do if the format is basically everyone just hanging out together and partying some place for a day or two. Some of the events in the last couple of years like the island gatherings have been pretty close to that.
Perhaps there's some hybrid format somewhere inbetween that offers sponsors a way to get some value and exposure, but doesn't have them sitting around a booth all day."
Hell Puppy.............. have we ever met?
You have hit the nail on the head. I have been searching for THE answer for
about 2 years now.
The 'party shows, just do not draw the right people. Too many freeloaders, which makes it into something that the people you really want to do business with don't bother coming for.
It often seems that if companies don't have a booth, the principals don't come - they just send somebody - OR - they really don't feel involved in the show and do NO marketing to let their customers know that they are going to be there.
I thought I had maybe found an answer when we were dealing with the Marriott in Lauderdale. They had an area of 50 large Cabinas on a brick lighted walkway. Was thinking of making that into a late afternoon/night showroom party. This gives 50 companies a base to operate from and talk to attendees in a business/social setting. No real booth - just a base of operations for the evening. Each booth could serve one drink or food item.
Just thought it might be fun........................ and different. However, the company brass would allow the show & we haven't found another place like it.
We are searching for those kinds of ideas........ something that gives the sponsors some 'bang for their buck. The Montreal showroom layout as part as the whole social scene, is as close as we have been able to come. That is why I am out here posting......... , before I make ANY committments.
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