2022 Event Sales Planner:
Top Products, Target Customers & Trends to Watch
Wouldn’t it be nice to have your own personal sales planning assistant?
Well, you’re in luck – Soardist Displays Solutions is here to make short work of promotional events this year. Sit back and relax while we break down the most lucrative markets for event orders, foolproof products that speak to every client need and new and emerging trends that will take each event to the next level.
Target Customers
Let’s start with the most important question – who should you target for promotional event orders? While the nature of events has evolved in the last few years, in-person events remain a mainstay in branding and advertising. Reach out to your clients in the below industries to see what events are coming up on their marketing calendars and line up sales for the rest of the year.
Trade Shows & Conventions
Conventions and conferences are some of the biggest events around, and a huge market for promotional materials. Every participant will need branded items to decorate their booth and attract attention from attendees. Start conversations with table throws, flags and banners, then ask about branded giveaways end-users can take home after the big event.
Nonprofits & Charities
Organizations in this sector are always hosting fundraisers to increase donations and spread awareness about a number of important causes. Events like charity runs, fundraising galas, car washes or auctions all need items like tents, table throws and flags to drum up excitement and designate areas to sign up and donate.
Retail Stores
Stores are always hosting special sales and promotions, each of which will need appropriately branded event items to make it a success. Ask about plans through December, especially since large retail chains likely have a marketing plan in place for the entire year. Events like in-store promotions, end-of-season sales or new product launches could all benefit from table throws inside, or tents and flags outside (a great way to bring passersby inside brick-and-mortar).
Schools & Universities
Campuses are back open and as such, both colleges and K-12 school districts need branded event items to kick off school spirit events or greet students and alumni in style. There’s no shortage of events for this sector: sports games, spirit days, new student orientations, graduations, alumni events, Greek life recruitment … the list goes on. Education is a great opportunity to sell branded giveaways like T-Shirts too, as students always appreciate some free swag!
Entertainment
Events like concerts, comedy shows and music festivals are returning and consumers couldn’t be more excited to see their favorite performers. Booths that sell merch will need higher price point items like tents, especially if outdoor events are rain or shine. Ask about vendor sponsorships too, as these could be great co-branding opportunities or help get your foot in the door with a new client.
Top Products
Now that you know who to target, what exactly should you sell? There’s no shortage of promotional event products. However, your clients don’t want to feel overwhelmed with options, or confused by nitty gritty details. It’s your job as a distributor to make their decision easy and narrow down choices to just a few excellent options. Soardist Displays Solutions has done the hard work by recommending the #1 product for each event need.
Tents
We Recommend:
Premium Aluminum 10' Tent Kit With Full-Bleed Dye Sublimation (CPN-554021393)
Meet your one-size-fits-all tent solution. Your customers will attract tons of attention with this 10’ tent kit. Measuring 120" W x 137" H x 120" D, it’s the perfect size for most events and will work both indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile and reusable investment any company could benefit from for all types of promotional activities.
Table Throws
We Recommend:
Premium Stretch Table Cover 6' 4-Sided With Dye Sublimation (CPN-554036323)
For events big and small, this premium 6' 4-sided stretch table cover is exactly what your clients need on hand for any and every event. Their artwork and logo can be added across the entire throw through dye sublimation, which not only produces vibrant, photo-quality images, but it also ensures imprints won’t wear or fade over time. This means enhanced reusability and a great ROI over time.
Flags
We Recommend:
12' Double Sided Feather Flag With Poles + Ground Stake (CPN-554037238)
Your clients need event items that will attract attention and create buzz. This innovative feather flag will do both of those things efficiently and in style. Add your client’s artwork with dye sublimation to both sides so it’s visible to end-buyers no matter where they’re standing (or driving).
Giveaways
We Recommend:
Short Sleeve Crew Neck With Full Dye Sublimation (CPN-554038725)
Don’t let your clients forget everyone’s favorite part of events – the swag! Apparel like this short sleeve crew neck will leave a lasting impression on recipients and be worn again and again, collecting impressions along the way. Tell your customers they can add their logo, tagline or other artwork to the shirt through striking sublimation imprint.
Trends to Watch
Finally, let’s talk about trends. This is a savvy way to let your clients know you have your finger on the pulse of what’s in and what’s out for successful promotional events. Not only will they rely on you as their go-to promo provider, they’ll also know they can come to you for overall marketing and advertising advice, ensuring strong client relationships for life.
Virtual & Hybrid Events
While in-person events aren’t going away, virtual and hybrid events aren’t either – at least, not anytime soon. Don’t dismay; events with a virtual component are prime opportunities to sell more event giveaway items such as branded tees, as these products can be mailed directly to recipients at home. Advise clients to brand the event items and giveaways the same to give all attendees – both at-home or in-person – a feeling of belonging and cohesiveness to the event.
The Importance of Airflow
As safety concerns remain top-of-mind with event organizers and attendees, ensuring proper airflow for in-person events is an absolute must. Recommend your clients opt for tents with open sides to keep things light and breezy during the event. Attendees will feel more comfortable, making them likely to stick around longer and engage more with the event. This also allows your clients to communicate that they care about their customers’ health and safety, creating a positive brand association.
Versatile Imprints (Decorate event items for reuse)
Many businesses are operating with reduced marketing budgets due to the economic flux and flow. Let these clients know that event materials are still affordable, especially if you order smart. Instead of buying branded tents and table throws for each event on their calendar, suggest they invest in just one, decked out with their company’s branding so it can be used for any associated event. Then, they can brand smaller items for the specific event theme to keep costs lower and still get everything they need.