Alta Graphics has been a leader in fabricating portable trade show and display hardware and graphics for over 10 years. We have developed the following “Quick Reference Guide” to get you started. We have specialists in each area of trade show planning in house so please contact us with your areas of concern for an expert consultation.
Trade Show Planning
Alta Graphics “Quick Reference Guide”
Choosing A Display
Although there are dozens of display styles, they are generally grouped into three categories: portable, modular, and custom. As you consider these choices, make a list of what you want to accomplish. This will allow you to choose the best display that matches your needs. By defining your purpose and deciding which elements take priority, your company can make the most of your valuable trade show space.
Alta Tip: When choosing a display, have your display designed to accommodate future upgrades and additions. This will save you money in the long run.
Custom Exhibits
Custom exhibits are designed from scratch and constructed by wood, metal or other substrates. Since each exhibit is designed with your needs in mind, it is unique to you. They can be designed to accommodate any need you have
Alta Tip: Many exhibit houses have a rental inventory for you to choose from. This is beneficial for the exhibitor who only plans to use the exhibit once, lack of time to design one, or just wants to try out a certain exhibit style or look before purchasing
Trade Show Planning Calendar
Long Range Planning: One Year Or More Before A Show
- Establish your company's overall trade show strategies.
- Research to identify which trade shows meet your stated objectives.
- Consider the number and locations of shows you will attend during the year.
- Request information from sponsors of shows you are considering.
- Create a projected annual trade show budget.
- Secure management approval of these broad trade show goals.
Nine To Twelve Months before a Show
- Select the shows you will attend
- Determine exhibit space requirements.
- Book space with show sponsors.
- Rough out an exhibit plan with promotional, graphic and staffing needs.
Three Months before a Show
- Refine the projected size, design and staffing needs of your exhibit.
- Set work schedules and completion dates for all show activities.
- Start production on any show-specific printed materials.
- Select vendors for all key show materials.
Two Months before a Show
- Make final exhibit staffing decisions.
- Confirm progress and delivery dates with any outside vendors.
- Finalize plans for display size, graphics and support materials.
- Launch pre-show promotional efforts.
- Review your show budget and schedules.
One Month before a Show
- Preview your physical show exhibit.
- Finalize all travel arrangements.
- Confirm availability of product samples and promotional materials.
- Review progress of all pre-show promotional efforts.
- Confirm with show organizers all details of your exhibit.
One Week before a Show
- Check that all exhibit supplies and materials have been packed or shipped.
- Arrange for company checks or credit cards to cover at-the-show payments.
- Meet with exhibit staff for a final review of your plan of action.
At The Show
- Confirm the arrival of your exhibit and all materials.
Hold a pre-show staff rehearsal in your exhibit
- During the show, conduct daily meetings to assess your performance.
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