It can be difficult for fledgling companies to know which trade shows are the best to attend. Whilst it might depend on what market your business capitalises on, there are a few big trade shows that should be on the ‘do not miss' list of any respectable company. In order to gain lots of positive exposure, make good contacts and check out the competition it is vital to get out there and check out the trade shows first hand. Although it’s always advisable to check out the attendance list of your chosen event, to help you with some of the hard work read on to find out a bit more about the five biggest trade shows in the world and what they can offer you and your business.
1. Bauma Trade Fair
Held every 3 years in Munich, Germany, this trade fair is centred around vehicles, construction machinery and engineering equipment. With over 415,000 visitors from 200 countries in attendance, the scale of the fair makes it an essential visiting place for any like-minded companies. Featuring representatives from all sectors, the showcasing of innovative equipment and market insiders this is one not to be missed.
2. Conexpo-Con
A huge international networking opportunity for anyone in the construction industries, this show is held once every 3 years in Las Vegas. With information readily available on all things construction, this is the place to come and find out the latest developments in the world of construction equipment, products and services. An ideal place to embark on extensive industry related education or to recruit skilled labour, each show welcomes over 120,000 registered attendees.
3. Mostra Convegno Expocomfort (MCE)
Held every year at the Fieramilano in Milan, this trade show is aimed exclusively at those in the fields of innovation, technology and energy efficiency. Broken down into four main sectors (cooling, water, warm and energy) this show welcomes over 65,000 visitors per year and covers everything anyone would need to know about everything from air conditioning to bio-fuels congregation. Lasting four days, the show is packed with conferences, lectures, activities and events dealing with the big issues surrounding energy and industry.
4. Dreamhack
Attracting over 200,000 visitors per year this summer event is one of the top gaming conventions, offering information on gaming, video and tech equipment. Taking place in Jonkoping, Sweden at the Elmia Exhibition centre, this trade show is known and respected for its innovative offerings. Despite the high calibre of the attendees, the show remains keen to embrace new start-ups from around the world so it is an excellent starting point for any new tech companies looking to learn more about their industry.
5. EcoBuild
If you own a company that specialises in all things ecological, it's important to keep up with all the latest developments in environmental living. One of the most important is held in London's ExCel centre and is aimed at sustainable construction suppliers in the UK. Now in its 8th year, this event is known for it's excellent seminars, activities and networking possibilities. With most big eco businesses in attendance, it's an important place to network and ask key questions about sustainable materials.
Steve Seymour is Managing Director at Project Print Solutions, who specialise in pop up exhibition stands and corporate brochure design for a wide range of businesses.
