Conventions, exhibitions and special events are a great way to introduce people to a new product or reinvented brand, but in a maze of stalls grabbing the attention of the consumer or investor can be a challenge.

At almost every exhibition or tradeshow convention, SME’s can struggle to make an impact when competing against big names that can afford big stands. 

With potential distributors, investors and consumers walking through huge centres looking for the ideal product, the most important thing you can do is make an impact with an innovative product.

A recent example of a great execution was the Fisher & Paykel YUM Kitchen at the Good Food and Wine show in Sydney.

They held cooking classes where members of the public could get their hands on the tools of the trade and cook up a storm, which is a fantastic engagement model. This stand was larger than life and provided visitors with a very real and memorable experience. 

Providing people with something they can physically hold, smell or eat is always a positive step; but how do you make a lasting impact when so many other stalls offer a similar experience?

Powerful online channels such as Facebook and Twitter are also a great way to inform visitors who may not have even stepped foot into your area let alone aisle.

Let’s turn that on its head for a second. What about keeping them connected whilst they’re at an event? 

Giving people something for nothing has long been a good way to keep them close, but the audience, particularly in the current economic environment, can select a product or service based on what’s on offer as well as the experience they have.

As mobile phones have become a large part of our daily lives, being connected is crucial to most Australians. Like social media or group buying, a mobile phone can be used as a marketing tool and can be very effective in keeping people at a venue.

I know that a lot of people are using their phones and tablets to write down and record information while at conventions and exhibitions, so a service that takes advantage of this would obviously be a standout.

A portable phone charger is just one tool that can be effective in making people remember your brand. After using their phones all day, investors will remember carrying a portable phone charger and seeing your brand’s logo printed on the product that kept their phone alive.