Promo Trade Show Playbook: Suppli...

Promo Trade Show Playbook: Supplier Strategies for PPAI, ASI & Regional Events

Supplier Promo Playbook by Supplier Promo Playbook
S1 · E5
Sep 5, 2025
52:47

Episode notes

Thinking of jumping into trade shows without a plan? You might be setting your brand up for wasted time and money.

In this episode of Promo Playbook, Lisa Fosdick, Kimberly Miller Ballerene, and Adrienne Barker, MAS, unpack everything suppliers need to know about navigating promotional product shows—national expos, regionals, end-user events, and even the new wave of cruise-style networking experiences. From budgeting and booth strategy to relationship-building and smart follow-up, they reveal what really drives ROI at trade shows. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned supplier, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and maximize your presence.

Key Takeaways

→ Why attending a show as a guest first can save you thousands down the road

→ The hidden costs of exhibiting and why budgeting isn’t optional

→ How to handle rainmakers, takers, and complainers at your booth

→ The difference between retail shows and promo shows—and why expectations must shift

→ Why follow-up after the show is more important than anything you do at the show

Special Thanks Hosts: Lisa Fosdick, Kimberly Miller Ballerene, and Adrienne Barker, MAS

Connect with Lisa: (27) Lisa Fosdick | LinkedIn

Connect with Kimberly: (27) Kimberly Miller Ballerene | LinkedIn

Connect with Adrienne: (27) Adrienne Barker, MAS | LinkedIn

Follow Promo Playbook on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-promo-playbook/posts/?feedView=all

Keywords

promotional products industry, promo suppliers, trade show strategy, trade show ROI, supplier marketing, distributor relationships, follow-up after trade shows, booth strategy, lead retrieval scanner, sample strategy, spec samples, new product pavili