With Expo West less than a month away, I was reflecting on my first time attending the show as a guest. It was overwhelming seeing so many booths presenting their products to attendees and perhaps, potential buyers. Some of those booths were taking up to ten spaces, looking more like a small, well designed store for just four days. Everyone's eyes were at the person's badge when approaching their table for two things: to see their names, but most importantly, how important they were as to get their full attention. But the one thing I noticed the most, was many presenters mostly socializing with their peers on the never-ending aisles (yes, outside their booths), and little has changed since. As a new food demonstrator eager to learn, I was also thinking of how their product(s) gets attention when in the stores. Are they here just to make a sale and hoping the product moves well enough to keep ordering? Are you assuming that taking the buyer out for dinner and drinks will keep your product on the shelves? Is running a promotion a few times a year enough? There are so many other competitors (and some well established and with BIG budget) on the shelves, that in my humble opinion, active in-store food demo/tasting is not the only option, but the best option; period. Do you agree with me? After 24 years in the food demo business and collaborating with over 90 brands, I can assure you that active demos are a great tool to invest a good portion of your marketing budget. Please make sure not to rush and do some research finding the best person/agency to hire. It is not easy, but there are a few of us out there. #godalodemo #fooddemos #instoretasting #marketing
Vice President of Strategic Partnerships - Helping Premium Brands Succeed on Amazon/Marketplaces
2moDebating whether I bring my fur ball!! Excited for the show