Retailers know that Natural Products Expos are must-attend events to keep the pulse of innovation, but each year there are even more exhibitors on the show floor…and the same amount of time (or less!) to see it all. Pepper in your vendor meetings, and your time’s really at a premium.
What’s the key to cutting through the noise, finding what’s hot, and getting you closer to the information you’ll need to make assortment decisions? Check out a few tips on trendspotting and navigating the show here.
1. Plan in advance, and set mini goals.
Use the Expo app and website to map out your meetings and preview the exhibitor list and floor plan. Figure out which halls are close to your commitments and which ones are (and aren’t!) a priority. If you know your store is looking for the edge of innovation, prioritize the Hot Products areas. Need to do a deep dive on CBD? Hit the Hemp Pavilion first. Block out the time to do the most important things first, and set goals on the ground you’ll cover in a day (or morning, afternoon, etc.). And don’t forget about the talk tracks! Get a sneak peek at up-and-coming brands at Pitch Slam, or immerse yourself in the latest packaging innovation. Whatever’s important to you, plan for it!
2. Ask the right questions.
You know it’s important to visit the right brand booths, but how do you make sure you get the most value out of each brief interaction? Here are a few tips and sample questions to get a great conversation started – fast.
3. Let SPINS help bring it all together!
We’ve put together a starter guide to the show floor, including a selection of brands and trends to keep on your radar. Plus, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite finds afterward, so make sure to sign up for SPINS’ newsletter so you don’t miss our post-show recap and webinar!
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Access SPINS’ Guide to the Show Floor today!
Looking for a quick way to get started at Expo? Request a copy of SPINS’ Guide to the Show Floor for a directory of more than 70 must-see brands.
We hope to see you at Expo! Find out where we’ll be, and follow our social coverage HERE.