Trade Show Tips for Retailers at The Reunion | 4 Smart Ways to Maximize Your Visit

Attending a trade show should feel energizing—not overwhelming.

That’s why we appreciated this recent article from Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties, which offers 20 practical tips to help retailers make the most of their time at market. We’ve pulled a few of our favorites and added context to show how these trade show tips for retailers apply directly to The Reunion.

1. SGN says: “Comfortable shoes are important for the shows.”

Our take:The Reunion is built for discovery. Whether you're walking the floor, attending a session, or circling back to place an order, you’ll be on your feet more than you realize. Shoes that offer support (and have already been broken in) will serve you better than anything making its first outing.

2. SGN says: “Do research on the show’s website about what exhibitors will be at the show you are attending.”

Our take:There’s real value in preparing before you arrive. The Preview Guide gives you a head start on what’s new and noteworthy, and once the show app is live, you’ll be able to build your exhibitor list and bookmark the booths that matter most to your business. Planning doesn’t limit you—it gives you freedom to focus when the show begins.

3. SGN says: “Go buy a notebook or an electronic device you can use at the show. Remember Wi-Fi is not always the best at the shows, so have a backup. Carry your sales data with you to the show and use the notebook/electronic device for business cards and product notes.”

Our take:Once you’re in the zone, conversations and visuals come fast. Having a simple way to capture notes—whether it’s a paper notebook or a notes app—will help you stay focused and organized. Even more importantly, bringing your store’s sales data with you ensures that the orders you write on site are grounded in what actually sells.

4. SGN says: “At the end of each show day, organize your orders, go through your notes, ensure you have all new company contacts. Doing these things at the end of each day will help you stay organized.”

Our take:Before you transition out of show mode for the day, take time to process what you saw. Reviewing your notes, sorting your materials, and flagging top follow-ups will keep your momentum going and help you turn product discoveries into purchase orders.

You can read the complete SGN article here:

20 Ways to Win at Trade Shows – SGN Magazine