Glass tradeshows are not frequent occurrences. Because of that, the more research you can do before you attend a glass trade show and the more preparation you can perform for your booth, the more beneficial your appearance at the trade show will be.

You need to keep your budget in mind. If the glass tradeshows you are looking at are overseas, that obviously will increase your cost, especially if you need to ship exhibits and supplies. In order to get your business message across, you must have tangible goods available at your booth. To get your business ready for glass tradeshows, begin with a few simple steps:

1. Plan on attending a glass trade show.

2. Prepare marketing materials that highlight your businesses' glass related products.

3. Partner up with a business that compliments yours.

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

Research upcoming glass trade shows

If you'd like to get your business some publicity or even bring in some new customers, you need to spend some time researching upcoming glass trade shows to participate in. Glass trade shows are a good way to not only market your business, but to compare your business to the competition. Most glass shows will be advertised on the Internet and offer comprehensive glass trade show information for all participants.

I recommend: The American Glass Association holds an annual trade show and conference that many glass manufacturers, suppliers and fabricators can attend. Fill out your booth application online to reserve a spot. Win-door sponsors a fenestration show that hosts businesses that represent glass related software, machinery, sealants and testing services. Both offer a glass trade show guide for exhibitors free of charge.

Put your glass products in the spotlight

Marketing your glass products may be a bit of a challenge. If you are a glass door or sealant manufacturer, it may be difficult for you to bring your products for display at a glass trade show. If you are unable to bring samples of your products, what you may want to do is have a video of your manufacturing process, customer testimonials or new products running in your booth.

I recommend: eMotion Picture Studios specializes in trade show videos. They will come to your business and help you figure out the best way to present your glass related video and give you glass trade show advice. Staylor Made will also help your glass business create an eye catching video of your operations, and they can also provide you with DVDs of the video for your potential customers to take home.

Find a complimentary company exhibiting at your selected glass tradeshow

We've all heard the saying that there is power in numbers. If your glass business is small, new or if you are looking for a way to boost your sales, consider pairing up with a business that is complimentary to yours. If you manufacture windows, find a business that makes sealant and see if you can share a booth.

I recommend: Energy Star provides a free search feature to locate window, door and skylight manufacturers that might agree to let you use their glass trade show services. Request a media kit from Door and Window Manufacturer Magazine to place an advertisement in their periodical for a glass tradeshow partner.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you are new to the glass trade show circuit, it may be easier for you to use a glass trade show directory to find upcoming glass tradeshows in your area. There are many trade show directories online with searchable databases to help you find upcoming events.