Have any of you ever particiated in a trade show to promote your spray tan business? Did it increase our business at all? Did you do Demos? How did you proceed for demos as people have makeup on and have not exfoliated? Did you do demos free? Did you sell packages on the spot? Was it worth it overall?

I find the both cost at this upcoming trade show is pricy but I'm considering it however I wanted to get you opinions and experience first. Would you have any advice to share?

Thank you!

In England it is the big spray tan companies that have stalls not the individual salon,
people are aware of which companies are going to be at the shows so if they want a demo spray tan they would know before hand and prepare their skin,
these companies do the demos for free but try to sell you the kits or training,
i wouldn't see it been any good for an individual salon unless your trade shows are lot different to ours hth

I assume you are asking from the perspective of being a distributor selling to the trade?
Here in the UK shows are VERY expensive however can bring new customers as well as a means to establishing a "brand".

Again here in the UK the trade customers visiting shows have absolutely no problem whatsoever in getting stripped off and sprayed in front of a crowd.

I guess the answer is very much on what sort of capital you are prepared to invest as well as what sort of operating margin you have.

If both are low then it can be a risky business.

It really boils down to what financial risk are you prepared and can afford to take verses the rewards....if your operating margins are good then it could well be worthwhile.

HTH

I see! I should have mentionned that his show is smaller!

As part of networking group of small business women (an moms) , we are doing a "trade show" to promote and sell our services and products. This trade show is is open to the public and advertised on the radio. It is on a smaller scale but could give us some exposure locally.

Ah..I would guess then that the stand cost wont be high and I am sure your solution provider may support you with some solution you could use to spray some potential customers..a good way to get them hooked.

So if the stand space is relatively low in cost all you are really giving up is some time and a bit of solution so I would say "go for it" as you really haven't much to loose and a lot to potentially gain.

HTH

If it is based locally to where you are based it could be good for business,
you could offer your tans at a reduced price for the day and then when giving out your contact details include a special offer of some kind hth