By Nikki Clohessy

Trade shows play a crucial role in the business world, serving as a unique platform for companies to showcase their products and services while fostering valuable connections within their respective industries. At The Bespoke Group, we understand the importance of making the most of these opportunities and continuously strive to enhance our trade show experiences. In a recent conversation, our HR Director, Nikki Clohessy, sat down with our new PR Account Executives – Max Walmisley and Rory Fraser – to gain an insight into their first trade show experiences with the company.

Pre-Event Planning and Expectations

What event did you attend, where, when?

MW – I visited Labelexpo in Brussels last month, TCT in Birmingham in June, and London Packaging Week a few weeks ago.

RF – I attended The Print Show 2023, on the 19^th of September at the NEC in Birmingham.

How did you prepare for the event in terms of planning and research?

MW – For Labelexpo, I researched ACTEGA’s ECOLEAF technology as I was supporting them with their press conference. Before TCT and London Packaging Week, I focused on reading up on who would be exhibiting and what they were showcasing, as well as the talks taking place.

RF – I researched the event and chose the day that looked like it had the most interesting speakers and products on show.

What were your expectations before attending the show?

MW – Before attending Labelexpo, I had an idea of what to expect but hadn’t anticipated its size, which was impressive with eight large halls filled with label printing machines, and its role in the industry.

RF – I was aware that there would be demonstrations, journalists, and representation from printing companies. However, it was good to see all this in person as a guest this time.

What did you want to gain in terms of learning and development by attending the show?

MW – To see journalists interviewing our clients for myself and how we can help with staffing the interview. Seeing as we often spend a lot of time trying to secure these interviews for our clients, I felt it was important to understand how they worked in person.

RF – The experience of seeing a variety of printers in person. I had heard and read a lot about them since starting work on Mimaki, but it can be hard to fully understand and visualise without seeing it in action.

Event Highlights

What were the most notable moments at the show?

MW – We assisted ACTEGA in showcasing their new technology at Labelexpo, ensuring a successful event, and expressing gratitude for our assistance. It was also great to see the ACTEGA team celebrating a successful day at the show and press conference.

RF – The talks about DTF printing with Colin Marsh, Managing Director of Resolute DTG, and on sustainability with Frazer Chesterman, Director of FuturePrint, were both very engaging.

Event Information

Please comment on any press conferences, workshops, or presentations you attended, what did you learn from these?

MW – At London Packaging Week, Cameron Worth, founder of SharpEnd, discussed how consumer brands can leverage technology and data in packaging, highlighting the potential of the packaging industry. Jamie Laing, founder of Candy Kittens, provided insights into their business’s use of packaging to boost sales and customer engagement.

What industry trends or insights did you observe at the trade show?

MW – Companies at the three shows were promoting sustainability by focusing on machines with less waste and better materials, a shift from past efficiency and towards environmentally friendly practices.

RF – Sustainability seemed to be a key topic. The talk with Frazer Chesterman was good but also speaking to printers and resellers about the debate between solvent, UV and latex printing was insightful and gave me a base-level understanding of a big industry issue.

Event Takeaways

What were the most significant takeaways from the trade event experience?

MW – It has highlighted the importance of networking, building relationships, and finding new business. This has helped introduce me to journalists and provide new industry information.

RF – I have now seen a trade show and the industry in person. This will be something I can build on and when I’m next at a show with a client everything will feel familiar and less daunting.

How can these be applied when you attend future events?

MW – I plan to network extensively, share business cards, and stay updated on industry trends and technology to better understand the accounts I support in my role.

Future Events

What future events are you planning to attend as part of your role?

MW – I am looking forward to Drupa 2024, as I have heard from everyone that it is a large trade show! I’ll also look to attend any relevant UK-based ones to gain further experience.

RF – I hope to visit some of the bigger print shows with Mimaki such as FESPA or Drupa while I’m sure there will be opportunities with my other clients JPB Système and Redefine Meat. I enjoyed the experience of attending the show so will look forward to any future events I may attend.