Paint tradeshows offer a great venue to meet many potential and current customers in one place. At a paint tradeshow, you can meet professionals from all industry sectors, including interior designers, commercial contractors, stagers for real estate, and business owners, suppliers, vendors and purchasing agents. Get yourself a spot on a paint trade show guide so that consumer and business clients can easily find you on the tradeshow floor.

Create a bright, lively exhibit booth that showcases your paint products and services best. Bring your newest products to sell at the paint trade show, if you have any, and set up special offers for those who make a commitment at the show. Use this guide for a number of ways to find the best paint trade shows that will suit your business:

1. Get involved in industry groups that put on paint tradeshows.

2. Read publications that deliver news about paint trade show services.

3. Book a spot early for a paint tradeshow.

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

Look for a group that will provide a paint trade show guide

Most industry trade groups use their resources to put on a paint trade show for their members. Outside vendors are usually welcome to exhibit, but members can get in early and land the good spots on the floors. Association members usually get reduced fees for show space as well.

I recommend: Get involved with the Paint and Decorating Contractors of America to get a good spot for their regular tradeshows and conventions. Get in early to land a good spot at the tradeshows put on by the International Decorative Artisans League.

Find the best paint trade show advice for your company

Industry publications are good places learn about tradeshow and convention opportunities. While you are reading up on the latest industry news, you should keep an eye out for upcoming events where you can showcase your company and increase sales leads for the year.

I recommend: Stay in the loop with the information provided by the Finishing Contractors Association. You can load PDF files of info on the association's annual trade show from the site. Members of the National Paint & Coatings Association keep abreast of industry news and important events that you may wish to attend; you can view images and video of the most recent trade show along with information on the upcoming show.

Investigate paint trade show directory opportunities

Many tradeshows begin taking applications for the next event before the current tradeshow or convention is even over. In addition to getting a reduced fee, you can find out about special events that might take place during the show as well as have the ability to request a prime location for your booth at the next show. Also consider an advertisement in the directory to showcase your business.

I recommend: The National Hardware Show is a big draw for consumers and contractors alike who will be interested in your products and services; it encourages attendees from paint and home decor, among other areas. Find a place for your business at any one of the shows put on by the Decorative Arts Show.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Have a variety of promotional items at your paint trade show booth for various visitors. Keep the cheaper items such as pens and bags for slightly interested visitors and more expensive items such as mugs and caps for potential clients that show some real interest in your business offerings.