A recreation trade show is the perfect opportunity to show your company's stuff, be it sporting goods, camping equipment, GPS devices or information on outdoor activities. Recreation trade shows are great opportunities for recreation department leaders, coaches and physical education teachers, and enthusiasts in sports and the outdoors to check out the latest gear and information.

The design of your exhibit at recreation tradeshows is your company's chance to be creative. For example, set up camp around a "campfire" to show your camping equipment or hire "basketball players" to stage a game with your equipment. If your company provides books and materials, you'll want racks and displays that catch customers' eyes. As you prepare your company's display at a recreation trade show, consider the following:

1. You can get recreation trade show advice from professional tradeshow management businesses.

2. Companies practiced in setup and logistics can make your recreation tradeshow experience successful.

3. It's important to prepare employees for their responsibilities at the recreation trade show.

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

Consult with a recreation trade show management company

Managing an exhibit or display at a trade show involves many responsibilities, from selecting and paying for space in the exhibit area to on-site marketing to setup and breakdown. As your company jumps into this arena, get tips on best practices from recreation trade show services professionals.

I recommend: The nationwide experts at Trade Show Specialists can help you with all aspects of your trade show plans. Check their services for the help you need. The Godfrey Group offers consultation services and a 120-page manual with tips and recommendations to uses as your recreation trade show guide.

Engage a drayage company to setup your recreation trade show display

Nothing is a bigger challenge than finding your company's exhibit materials in the shipping area, getting them delivered and set up, and then undoing everything at the show's end. Unless your firm has a team that handles these logistics, it makes great sense to hire a drayage company.

I recommend: Visit the Apple Rock website for an online demonstration of their services, including exhibit design and drayage. The professionals at TLC-Expo will pick up and return your company's materials, using special labels for easy handling in the busy trade show staging areas.

Guide your employees through a recreation trade show manual

Once you select the events for your company to attend from a recreation trade show directory, prepare your team for the adventure. Get manuals that outline various areas of responsibilities and 'rules.' Be sure to customize the general guidelines to your company's expectations.

I recommend: Enroll with Tradeshow Teacher for complete trade show training services, including a manual and classes. The Carambola Tradeshow Group will provide a customized exhibitor manual based on their 25 years in the trade show wars.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  You also can rent almost any equipment your company might need at a recreation trade show. Check online for recreation trade show information about rental vendors.