Prepare for networking events with this trade show toolkit.
Trade shows are one of the best opportunities for businesses to showcase their products, connect with potential clients, and make a lasting impression in their industry. But standing out on a busy show floor requires more than just showing up—it takes planning, strategy, and a carefully assembled toolkit that supports your goals before, during, and after the event.
At FORMost Graphic Communications, we help businesses create complete trade show experiences with expertly branded materials and promotional items. Here’s how to build the perfect trade show toolkit from the ground up.
Start with a Smart Strategy
Before designing materials or booking your booth, start by identifying your trade show objectives. Are you looking to generate leads? Build brand awareness? Launch a new product? Defining your goals will help guide every element of your trade show plan, from your signage to your giveaways.
Eye-Catching Signage and Displays
First impressions matter, especially on a crowded trade show floor. Invest in bold, professionally printed signage that grabs attention and reinforces your brand identity. Essentials include:
- Retractable Banners: Portable, easy to set up, and perfect for showcasing your key messages.
- Backdrops and Booth Displays: These help define your space and create a branded environment.
- Pop-Up Tents and Table Throws: For indoor or outdoor events, these brand-friendly basics give your booth a polished, cohesive look.
FORMost provides a wide range of custom trade show signs, including lightboxes, sandwich boards, and posters, all designed to make your booth stand out.
Don’t Forget Print Marketing Collateral
Once you’ve attracted visitors to your booth, make sure they leave with something to remember you by. Include essential printed materials in your toolkit:
- Brochures and Flyers: Provide key product and service information in a concise format.
- Business Cards: Custom business cards with your contact info and logo are still one of the most effective networking tools.
- Presentation Folders: Use them to keep your printed materials organized and make your brand appear professional and prepared.
Branded Promotional Products
Freebies are a must at trade shows—but not just any freebies. Offer promotional products that are both useful and memorable. FORMost can customize hundreds of items with your logo, including:
- Reusable tote bags
- Drinkware like tumblers and water bottles
- Branded pens, notebooks, and tech accessories
- Games, toys, or novelty items related to your brand
Choose items that represent your company well and will continue promoting your business long after the show ends.
Branded Apparel for Your Team
Uniform branded apparel helps your team look unified, professional, and approachable. FORMost can help you create custom t-shirts, polos, jackets, and hats with your logo so staff are easily identifiable and represent your brand well on the show floor.
Promotional Planning and Mailing
Don’t wait until the day of the event to make an impression. Use direct mail marketing to promote your presence before the show even begins. FORMost can assist with custom mailers to invite attendees to visit your booth, offer incentives, or tease a product launch.
Trust FORMost to Bring It All Together
FORMost Graphic Communications offers end-to-end support for your trade show marketing needs. With decades of experience and a dedication to quality, we make it easy to build a trade show toolkit that leaves a lasting impact.
Ready to start planning your next trade show? Contact FORMost Graphic Communications today and let us help you promote your business with professionalism and creativity every step of the way.
Trust FORMost Graphic Communications for Your Branding Needs
FORMost Graphic Communications proudly provides high-quality print and marketing solutions that produce results for your business. Since 1985, we have been providing an array of services for both national and international clients across a wide variety of industries, including all levels of government. As a privately-held company based in the Washington DC area, we are dedicated to providing exceptional services and products to each of our client’s unique marketing needs. To learn more about our products and services for your marketing and print needs, contact us today at 301-424-4242, or visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or Linkedin for more information.