SuperZoo 2011The National Show for Pet RetailersMandalay Bay Convention CenterLas Vegas, NevadaSeptember 13-15, 2011

CHECKLISTVisiting a Trade ShowBEFORE THE SHOW

Know what you and your employer want to achieve byvisiting the show.

Develop a list of exhibitors you want to visit and thenseparate it into two parts - “must see” and “want to see".

Decide how much time you want to spend at the show andat individual exhibits. Allow extra time for browsing,distractions and waiting in lines.

Know what information you need from each exhibitor.Research different vendors to find out how they differ, andthen prepare a list of questions to ask each exhibitor.

Design a lead-gathering form to research specific productsand services. This will allow you to make more accuratecomparisons.

Make appointments with exhibitors with whom you want tomeet and spend more time.

Using MyExpo, create in advance or at the show, a floorplan map with all your appointments, exhibitors to see andseminar sessions to maximize your time at SuperZoo.

Bring plenty of business cards to help avoid filling out formsat each exhibit.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

Take a light “carry-all” for accumulated materials.

Make travel and hotel reservations early to take advantageof discounted rates. Choose a hotel close using the links atwww.superzoo.org/attendee-hotel-and-travel

Decide which SuperZoo University seminars and workshopsyou want to attend. Split sessions with your colleagues inattendance in order to maximize your company’sparticipation.

Pre-register for the event and arrive 30 minutes before theopening to avoid standing in long lines.

AT THE SHOW

Revise your plan at the show. The show directory andschedule often change several times before the event.

Collect information that is of interest to you or thatmight interest others in your company. Request thatliterature be mailed instead of having to carry it with you.

Tell exhibitors that you are on a tight schedule and getstraight to business.

Look for networking opportunities. Converse with industryleaders. Get invited to exhibitors’ hospitality suites andreceptions. At workshops, introduce yourself to peoplearound you. Hand out and collect business cards.

Skip overly crowded booths and plan to come back at day’send when traffic is lighter.

Carry a pad and pen to jot down important notes, or use asmall tape recorder.

Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration.

Write a trip report as you go and summarize your notesevery evening.

Avoid conversations with vendors whose products don’tinterest you.

AFTER THE SHOW

Be prepared to follow up for literature and samples you’verequested.

Plan how you are going to implement the informationgathered

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World Pet Association, Inc.135 W. Lemon Avenue, Monrovia, CA 91016 USA

Telephone: (626) 447-2222 FAX: (626) 447-8350E-mail: info@wpamail.org URL: www.worldpetassociation.org