A new virtual platform for Retailers and Suppliers
We are delighted to be participating in this new online platform, featuring some of the best businesses in and around Scotland.
We have been exhibiting with STF at SECC Glasgow for several years now and, like most other event-based companies, they have had to pivot their business over the last 12 months, from being essentially a ‘face to face’ organisation to one operating completely online.
There have been countless business ‘downsides’ to the Pandemic as we know all too well. Most bricks and mortar stores have been faced with closure and this has also severely decimated the supply chain. As well as the obvious financial impact, there are also other important factors to consider:
- Firstly, the absence of ‘face to face’ contact and networking with buyers and the opportunity of meeting and chatting with show visitors and potential new customers.
- There is always a strong ‘camaraderie’ amongst the exhibitors, many having become firm friends over the years and we really look forward to connecting with, learning from, and supporting each other at the shows. Oh, and the lovely show organisers at Springboard Events too (they’re a cool bunch!)
- The build-up to the event – planning exhibition displays and showcasing new products plus the ‘buzz ‘of the exhibition itself are all things we sorely miss. (I would however add that my poor feet will be ever-grateful for not having to stand for hours on end over 2-3 days!!)
Scotlands Trade Fairs have worked hard to minimise the fall-out by providing both buyers and sellers with this first-class virtual platform FOR THE WHOLE YEAR!
Our stand at a recent Trade show
So….what’s on offer?
All exhibitors have their own profile, with an option to add product photos, special offers, media uploads and links to social platforms and website. As well as this, STF organisers are running ‘live’ events, where buyers can connect with exhibitors online by registering to view their presentations then ‘meet the exhibitor’ and participate in a Q&A session afterwards. There is also an appointment system where buyers are able to plan ahead and book 1-hour slots with their chosen exhibitors.
Live Events
The first of the ‘live’ events took place at the beginning of this month with a very successful outcome. Presenting ‘on camera’ was a first for me and a bit of a steep learning curve! But I embraced the challenge and really enjoyed the whole experience. Here’s my presentation
The feedback has been very positive, with lots of follow-up activity/enquiries and orders now starting to come through. [At one point, I had an unexpected e-meet up with a buyer from Florida whilst waiting in the ‘green room’ and we had a very interesting conversation, leading to us exchanging details and making subsequent contact. Hopefully we will be able to do business with each other in the near future].
The virtual experience versus the physical show has encouraged valued regular customers and also brought about a new swathe of online visitors and buyers – who most probably wouldn’t have physically visited the show under normal circumstances, but who are able to access all exhibitors virtually, freeing up their time, travel and costs.
NEXT ‘LIVE’ DATE FOR YOUR DIARIES …………. 28/29th APRIL 2021
Live presentations … Q&A section … 1-2-1 conversations … new brands … show offers
Hope to see you there!!
Stay safe
Carol & the Keepsake Clan
