For businesses that operate in the ceramics industry, attending ceramics trade shows are a must for growth potential and increased sales. Ceramics trade shows cater to many industry niches, from hand-crafted, decorative ceramics to industrial and commercial building materials. By making the right choices, and with the proper planning, trade show attendance can give your business a much-needed boost.

Attending ceramics trade shows can provide your business with many opportunities such as contact with new suppliers and wholesalers and exposure to the latest industry developments such as new ceramic molds and eco-friendly firing techniques. Additionally, it gives your company an exceptional occasion to present your own product lines. When planning your attendance, make sure to follow this ceramics trade show advice:

1. Attend ceramics trade shows that best target your business's niche.

2. Set clear goals and objectives that you want to achieve at the ceramics tradeshow.

3. Determine a budget in which to plan your ceramics trade show attendance.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Exhibit ceramic art at the right ceramics trade shows

Small and individually run artisan studios can greatly increase sales and profits by exhibiting at arts and crafts trade shows that attract their target audience. Attending ceramic trade shows can help artisans find the best suppliers, meet wholesale purchasers, network with other artisans and professionals in the industry and introduce them to new and innovative techniques.

I recommend: Ceramic artisans should attend the International Ceramics Festival. The Los Angeles Pottery Show is one of the largest ceramic art shows on the west coast, while Strictly Functional Pottery National is one of the largest in the east.

Attend a ceramics trade show serving the construction industry

Trade shows focused on construction and commercial ceramics will help commercial ceramic manufacturers stay on top of architecture and design industry trends and innovations. Trade show visitors will keep manufacturers knowledgeable of technological advances and how industry leaders are directing trends, and allow them to make essential contacts with other professionals which may lead to new contracts.

I recommend: Attend Ceramitec, the largest international ceramics trade show specializing in the construction industry. Coverings is an annual trade show for ceramic and stone tiles that is free to attend and features ceramic designs of over a thousand suppliers and manufacturers under one roof.

Establish a presence at interior design ceramic trade shows

Ceramic tile and fixture producers can learn about interior design trends, including the latest in ceramic innovations for remodeled homes and commercial properties, at interior design ceramic trade shows.

I recommend: Participate in Full Frontal Tile and Stone Expo, a ceramics trade show for interior designers. Exhibit to huge numbers of potential buyers that are retailers, dealers and interior designs attending the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show and Conference.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Keep your ceramics safe at ceramics tradeshows with secure shelving and display units that can hold a lot of weight.
• •  Invest in high quality travel and storage materials to keep your ceramic products from breaking while traveling between ceramics trade shows.
• •  Contact trade show management early to get listed in the ceramics trade show guide or ceramics trade show directory to maximize your attendance's marketing potential.