BY: PATTIE MARTIN :: AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE CHAIR, TWIN CITY FIREPLACE & STONE COMPANY, INC. + MARLA ABSTETAR :: AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE VICE CHAIR, KOHLER CO.
As the chair and vice chair of the Ambassador Committee, we understand what a difference networking and connections have on our companies. We all joined BATC-Housing First Minnesota for different reasons, but whether you’re a builder or remodeler looking for a new product or service
or you’re an associate hoping to create and grow new relationships, the annual Builders and Remodelers Show (BRS) is the perfect event to be alongside hundreds of other members for a day of networking and fun!
BRS, if you are new to BATC-Housing First Minnesota, is an award-winning trade show on Feb. 13. Associates come together at the Minneapolis Convention Center to exhibit new products and services while networking with builders, remodelers, architects and designers from all throughout Minnesota. All exhibitors must be members (so you know you’re in good company!), and the show is free for builders and remodelers to attend, bringing you hundreds of qualified prospects.
Twin City Fireplace & Stone Co. has been an exhibitor since joining the association. Knowing that everyone is busy and how tough it can be to get out and see your customers on a regular basis, we find this to be a great opportunity to get in front of both existing and potential customers. That is one reason we love BRS! Each year, we look forward to reconnecting with our builders and remodelers that we otherwise may only see a couple times a year, and it’s a fun day away from the normal daily grind.
Kohler has exhibited at BRS the last two years, since we joined BATC-Housing First Minnesota. We see this as an opportunity to touch base with our existing customers, and also collect leads for potential new customers. It is also a great way to give your existing customers a look at new products that have launched recently, as construction material samples can oftentimes be cumbersome to transport to each builder or remodeler’s office for review.
And each year, BRS has a theme for associates to incorporate into their booth. This year’s theme? Casino! Though participating in the theme is completely optional, it gives the show consistency and makes attending exciting and memorable for attendees. Plus, BATC-Housing First Minnesota awards prizes for the best booth overall and best new product/service at the show, so amp up your creativity now!
If you’re an associate, you must exhibit to participate in BRS. Reserve your booth today by going online to BATCBRS.org. It is a must-do event that we never miss, and you shouldn’t either!
Trade Show Tips From Marla
- Plan out your space to ensure you are using it in the most efficient way possible, without overwhelming visitors with too many products. Focus on the items and resources that will make the most impact, but also make sense to bring from a logistical standpoint.
- Find a way to differentiate your company from your competition through a contest, giveaway or game, which will help keep your booth memorable to the many builders and remodelers that visit.
- Be engaging with all visitors throughout the show. If you have to respond to an urgent email or take a phone call, step away from your booth momentarily and let a coworker give the visitors their full attention.
- Follow up with leads after the show. Invest in the lead generation technology available, or bring a pen and paper to write down the follow-up builder and remodeler request. Send them additional information on the product or service as soon as possible after the show to take advantage of the momentum you create.
Find more tips for perfecting your trade show booth here.
