Tips for Attending the Catersource Tradeshow

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Credit: Catersource + The Special Event

We’re officially counting down to the Catersource tradeshow, and we can’t wait to see all of our industry friends there! So whether you’re most excited about education, networking, or conference-adjacent events, we encourage you to dedicate some time to walk the tradeshow floor. 

In addition to making new connections, you can learn about up-and-coming industry trends, business software solutions, and more. (Plus, you’ll likely walk away with some fun freebies!) For our fellow exhibitors, the tradeshow is an opportunity to increase brand awareness, build your email list, and attract new customers.

Whether you’re there to promote or learn, here are some tips to make the most of your time at the Catersource tradeshow.

Set tradeshow goals

Creating meaningful goals allows you to arrive at the Catersource tradeshow with purpose and intention. Whether you’re there to promote your business or discover new ideas, get clear on what you hope to gain from your conference experience. 

Goals will direct you through each day toward a benchmark for success, so make sure to quantify your objectives. For instance, if you are an exhibitor, how many sign-ups do you hope to get each day? Or, if you’re looking for a software solution for your catering company, how will you know you’ve found the best option? Set your sights on the big picture to ensure you get the most out of your time onsite.

Create your game plan

The tradeshow floor can get busy, so it’s best to head in with a plan. Fortunately, Catersource + TSE has shared the floor plan so you can review the map in advance. If you’re going as an attendee, list your must-see booths and any talks that interest you on the Ignite Stage.

For exhibitors, be sure to promote the tradeshow and tell people how to find you! Share your booth number and some easy directions to navigate the floor. You may also want to look at the map to see what brands are around you, as you’ll have plenty of time to network with those at nearby booths.

Pack wisely

If you have a booth on the tradeshow floor, create a separate packing list to ensure you bring everything you need to set up: brochures, signage, prizes, and other goodies. Likewise, ensure your computer is prepared if you’re running a software demo or offering a digital freebie. Do a test run before heading off to Orlando!

But even if you’re not an exhibitor, you’ll still want to prepare for long conference days that will keep you on the move. Here are a few things you’ll want to pack for each day:

  • Comfortable clothes and shoes, including a sweater for chilly rooms

  • A refillable water bottle

  • Snacks (granola bars, trail mix, dried fruits – great for sustained energy!)

  • Business cards (or a virtual alternative, like a QR code)

  • All the chargers (phone, laptop, watch, tablet, etc.)

  • A bag or backpack you won’t mind carrying all day

Give your undivided attention

You’re eager to soak in all the tradeshow has to offer — new connections, business solutions, and fresh inspiration await. But all it takes is one email or text message to push you off-track. Before you know it, the exhibitors are packing up for the day while you’ve been camped out on the side. Or worse, you’re manning a booth and completely miss the interested glances from passersby.

You don’t welcome distractions in the office, so take this mindset with you to the conference. When you arrive on the tradeshow floor, respect others—and your time—by silencing your phone and keeping your computer closed. Save the emails for your next break so you can make the most of your investment!

Prepare a follow-up plan

Collecting business cards or email sign-ups is an effective way to expand your audience, but only if you take action after the tradeshow. So if those business cards end up collecting dust in a drawer, you’re better off saving yourself the trip altogether because you won’t see the full return on your investment.

Before you head to Orlando, look ahead to the week you return and set aside time to follow up with new connections from the conference. Depending on your goals, you might need to schedule two time blocks: one to create and send a mass marketing email to new sign-ups and one to personally reach out to VIP contacts. You may also follow and engage with new connections on social media (which you could squeeze in while waiting for the flight home!).

We can’t wait to see you at the Catersource tradeshow! 

You can find SB Value at Booth 2328, although you’ll likely see some of us floating around the floor and taking in some breakout sessions. Want to schedule a meet-up? Shoot us an email and let’s get something on the books!

Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.