Scrapbook Dimensions Magazine - How Trade Shows Can Help You Survive a Tumultuous Economy

How Trade Shows Can Help You Survive a Tumultuous Economy

Written by Tony Lee, Vice President, Meetings and Exhibitions, Craft & Hobby Association

s a scrapbook retailer, you are painfully aware that many customers are spending less while demanding better bargains and lower prices. This places increasing pressure on you to find better bargains from your suppliers and more cost effective ways to run your business.

Did you know that one of the best places to accomplish both of these critical goals is at trade shows?

Here’s how trade shows can help you survive this recession:

Where else can you find hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest products and offering “show special” pricing? You can realize significant savings by looking for show bargains.
Stay on top of trends, like the recent movement to be green. From products to merchandising, staying “in the know” will help you remain competitive in the market and ensure that you are relevant to consumers.
Learn how to cut operational costs and run your business more effectively. Education programs at shows offer dozens of sessions and workshops geared to helping you gain a competitive edge, with topics ranging from valuable cost control strategies to upcoming color trends.
Network! There are several opportunities to learn valuable lessons, tips and techniques from other retailers from around the world. Discover how your peers have solved similar challenges.
Differentiate yourself from the competition! Few other environments offer the inspiration that trade shows do. Live demonstrations, workshops, and “make-n-takes” on the trade show floor have given rise to many successful in-store classes.

The Craft and Hobby Association (CHA) Trade Shows are designed to provide retailers like you with the tools you need to need to be successful, especially in a recession. There you’ll find new products, hot trends and educational and networking opportunities all in ONE place!

To learn more about the upcoming CHA 2009 Winter Show, visit www.chashow.org, where you can register and see a complete schedule of all programs and events. We look forward to seeing you at the Anaheim Convention Center in January!