Network on the show floor. For years some of the best networking has been on the show floor, and this year NATSO is stepping it up a notch by holding its educational sessions, featured speakers and welcome reception right in the heart of the action. “Veracruz Exhibit Hall is going to be the place to be and our intent is for suppliers to move around and join in all of the activities too,” Hayes said. “By holding events on the show floor we will be increasing foot traffic at the booths and making it easy for suppliers to take advantage of the networking and educational events we have planned.” The show floor will be open on Saturday, February 19, 2011 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the unopposed exhibit hours running from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and on Sunday, February 20,1011 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. with the unopposed exhibit hours running from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Launch a new product. Capture headlines and wow attendees by unveiling a new product at The NATSO Show. For those suppliers launching a new product, NATSO is offering the marketing and promotional services of LaunchIt Public Relations for free. “This is suppliers’ opportunity to gain exposure and NATSO is supporting their efforts by providing a professional firm to present information on true product launches,” Hayes said. “We are hoping suppliers will bring their newest and most innovative products and ideas.” See the following story for more information on this innovative offering.
Share industry data. Vendors can do more than supply products. They can supply knowledge and expertise that can take a truckstop or travel plaza to the next level. By sharing regional sales data, driver insights or trend analysis, vendors can strengthen relationships and give operators the information they crave. Time and time again truckstop owners have told NATSO they want to learn from suppliers. Bobby Berkstresser, owner of Lee Hi Travel Plaza and Whites Travel Center and NATSO’s 2011 chairman, said, “There is so much free information that could be available to help independent operators be stronger. What should inventory turns be? What should labor be?” Vendors can hold talks in their booths, distribute information sheets or share expertise one-on-one.
Show off products. Vendors don’t have to just show products, they can show them off with in-booth product demonstrations. With scheduled demos, attendees will know when they can see products in action and learn about their features.
Create a customized approach. NATSO knows suppliers’ products and services are unique. So are their marketing goals, so NATSO will work with vendors to ensure their convention presence advances their specific goals. To start inventing a targeted package, vendors can contact Pamela Hayes at phayes@natso.com or (703) 739-8565, or Susan Taylor at staylor@natso.com or (703) 739-7572.
{HBM} Highway Business Matters is a brief semi-monthly newsletter created exclusively for companies that provide products or services to the truckstop and travel plaza industry. Highway Business Matters will keep you informed on trends, tactics, and tips to help you connect to the $65 billion truckstop and travel plaza industry.
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