Irish trade shows provide the opportunity for you to meet new people within your global industry and make potential clients and investors aware of the products and services you provide. By exhibiting at trade shows in Ireland, you can expand your visibility, establish your brand name, promote your business, create leads and increase sales.

An added bonus of trade show participation is the opportunity to examine what the overseas competition is doing in your industry, such as their price margins, what makes their products and services a success and their preferred marketing strategies. Such insight affords the opportunity for you to make adjustments to your own business strategies. Ireland tradeshows also reveal current global market trends. For the best results from Irish trade show services, implement the following:

1. Exhibit in an Ireland tradeshow that reaches your target market.
2. Know shipping regulations in order to send necessary equipment to Irish tradeshow locations.
3. Read the Ireland trade show guide provided by each organization for exhibitors to make sure you meets exhibition requirements.
   

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

Research trade shows in Ireland to find your target market

There are 2000 trade shows held across the globe annually, and approximately 150 of those attract a global market. It's important to know which trade shows in Ireland attract the attention of potential clients and investors in your target market. In addition to an Irish trade show directory, check with the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service, trade associations that you belong to, banks, embassies and bi-national chamber of commerce to obtain information on local trade shows.

I recommend: Most exhibitions in Dublin are at The Royal Dublin Society (RDS). A list of upcoming events, encompassing various industries, is available. Access an additional Ireland trade show directory on Events Eye.

Ship your equipment for the Ireland tradeshow correctly

Before you ship your equipment to Ireland, you need to make sure you obtain the appropriate licenses, declarations and shipping insurance. One important document that you must have is a Carnet, an international customs document that allows the temporary importation of goods, duty-free, for up to a year. Most trade shows provide a recommended freight forwarder to help you with these details.

I recommend: The Futura Home Interiors Show in Dublin provides information on customs for importing your equipment for the show. GEM Relocations provides shipping requirements and customs information for shipments to Ireland.

Design an exhibit for Ireland tradeshows that meets local requirements

Many Irish trade shows have local rules and requirements that you will have to meet regarding your booth and the product you offer for sale. For example, booth sizes and electrical requirements will be different from trade shoes in the States. Additionally, Ireland has safety codes and technical requirements that sold products must meet, including certifications. You may want to consider hiring a local consultant to assist you with making sure you meet all requirements beforehand.

I recommend: Read the rules and regulations provided by the Hospitality Expo held in Dublin. The Ireland Citizens Information Board provides information on safety requirements for products sold in Ireland.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  In order to participate in Irish tradeshows, you will have to overcome the pricing barriers. Prepare your team in advance so that they can close business deals on site.