The SPFA will be hosting its annual Spray Foam Convention & Expo in Palm Spring, California January 29 through February 1, 2017. The latest equipment will be on display with live representatives at their booths and breakout sessions that shouldn’t be missed. It's a chance to meet industry peers, learn from industry leaders and obtain professional certifications.
Attending trade shows, conventions and expos has valuable benefits for both small and large businesses. It's more obvious why distributors and suppliers attend trade shows; however, small businesses and contractors can benefit in valuable ways too.
The following are some good reasons for investing in attending trade shows:
- It's a great learning opportunity on multiple levels, especially during after hour social events.
- Some spray foam contractors are also venders of spray form products or equipment. Attending trade shows is a great way to expand your business.
- You can meet venders in person and develop important business relationships.
- There are often opportunities to participate in equipment demos which allows people to try out equipment before the buy.
- Some trade shows offer a chance to gain valuable professional certifications that will serve to expand your business.
- You can see equipment, supplies and other items in person and all in one place. It’s easier to make comparisons when deciding upon which purchases to make.
- You can get quotes from multiple venders and make comparisons on the spot.
- You can ask venders questions to understand detailed product information
- You can inquire about promotional items, buying in bulk and shipping rates.
- You can find out who is offering the best tech support or who will stand behind their products.
- You can meet other contractors who buy certain products and get their opinions on product performance.
- Venders, such as material suppliers, sometimes have inside information on contracting jobs you can take advantage of.
- It's a tax-deductible expense.
Trade shows can be expensive, but attending them can save you time and money in the long run. Cultivating personal relationships with venders allows you to find venders who can provide you with the best customer service and whose products fit your needs best. Spray foam contractors want to buy from venders they feel most comfortable with and from those who can provide them with a fair price, long-term tech support, and reliable service. Building vender relationships can be a crucial element in the growth and success of a company. Find a trade show, conference, or expo event near you on websites such as Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) and the International Contractor's Association (ICAA).