Ben Camerota
Ben Camerota is the President of MVP Visuals, suppliers of custom branded displays for trade shows, retail promotion and corporate events
Ask These 5 Questions Before Your Next Display Purchase
January 2, 2016
If you are new to the trade show world, choosing a company to design and print your trade show display materials can be a bit daunting. Even if you’re not a total newbie, you may have run into issues with your display in the past because you did not know exactly what to look for when purchasing.
Whether this is your first trade show or your 100th, it is vital that you ask the right questions when choosing a company to design and produce your trade show display materials. Though you may already have a check list ready, there are 5 essential questions that exhibitors often forget to ask the supplier about their trade show display:
1. Does your designer have experience creating graphics for trade shows?
Though experience is often a good indicator that a person knows what they’re doing, this is only true in the right context. A great graphic designer does not necessarily make a great designer for exhibit graphics. Trade show display graphics have different goals than websites or print advertisements, so make sure that the person designing your display has experience working with exhibit design.
2. What is the quality of the fabric?
Not all display fabrics are created equal. For the most part, you get what you pay for. Many inexpensive displays look cheap, and low quality zippers and Velcro tend to wear out rather quickly. If you want a display that is built to last then you need to find a supplier that offers high quality materials. When speaking with reps, ask for fabric samples so that you know what you’re getting.
3. What is the quality of the print?
Fabric printing is a complex process that requires up-to-date technology. Out of date printers just do not offer the same quality when it comes to clear graphics and colors that pop. Even if the company has been in business for years, ask about their printing process to find out if they stay current with printing technology.
4. What are your options for storage and transport?
Most display material packaging is meant to prevent damage before your first set up. Even if the packaging materials are reusable, that does not necessarily make them ideal for transporting your display from one trade show to another. When contacting the supplier, ask about what products they offer for storing and transporting your display materials. Consider how long these storage materials last and how much they cost before making a purchase.
5. Does the supplier offer reliable customer service?
Customer service should factor into your decision as it is a vital part of ensuring that you get what you want and any potential issues are resolved in a timely manner. As you do your research, find out what your options are for speaking with a rep. Does the supplier have people available outside of typical office hours? Will you speaking to an actual person or a robot? In the end, great customer service can make all the difference in a successful trade show display.
Overall, the key to a successful trade show display purchase is research. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and remember to allow yourself enough time to speak with different vendors, procure samples, and ship to your next show.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
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