Money Saving Tips on Swag for Your Booth

How to Save Big on Your Merch Stand!

Trade shows are a terrific opportunity to get exposure for your brand. One of the best ways is with swag or merch at your stand. Swag is excellent for getting your name out there, and people like free things!

By giving out something as small as a free pen or coaster with your logo and name, you just might bring in your next prospect. However, it is also important to keep track of your budget when planning to supply swag to the exhibit guests.

You want to be able to offer something of substance at your booth, but you also don't want it to cost you an arm and a leg after all, you should still make a profit at the end of the exhibit.

By following these tips, you'll be able to save money on your merch stand while still being able to give away the swag of your choice! For more information on budgeting for exhibits, check out our website today.

"Swag is excellent for getting your name out there, and people like free things!"

Tip #1: Make sure to order your swag in advance.

When buying any kind of merchandise, planning is key. When you order in advance, it will be cheaper than having to place a rush order right before the event. Plus, it will give you peace of mind in knowing you already have it at the ready!

Ideally, try to order the materials you need at least a month before your exhibit. This allots the necessary amount of time to make sure inventory is available, send proofs of how you'd like your logo or messaging to appear, manufacture the items ordered, and get them shipped out to your chosen location.

If the item you want isn't in stock, ordering early also gives you the time you'll need to select an alternative.

"When buying any kind of merchandise, planning is key."

Tip #2: Buy in bulk wherever you can.

If you know you'll be needing a lot of promotional items for a big exhibit, buying in bulk is typically your best option. Bulk purchases are usually cheaper than buying a bunch of items individually.

If you want to plan even further in advance, you could try to consider the needs for your exhibits throughout the entire year and account for all marketing materials you may need in the future.

By estimating your giveaway needs throughout the entire year, you can determine exactly how much you will need in bulk, making your spend lower overall.

Most vendors will give you a price quote based on the quantity you request, but make sure to ask at what point the price drops to based on the quantity ordered. If you will be surpassing that amount throughout the course of the year, it is a wise decision to place a larger bulk order.

It may be worthwhile to increase your order now, to receive the larger discount especially if you're going to end up making those purchases for future exhibits, anyway.

"If you know you'll be needing a lot of promotional items for a big exhibit, buying in bulk is typically your best option."

Tip #3: Get quotes from multiple manufacturers.

At the end of the day, this is going to be a big purchase for your business so it's good to make sure you're getting the best bang for your buck. Different manufacturers or vendors will charge different prices, so you should explore your options.

When you're shopping around, don't be afraid to inform vendors that you are obtaining multiple quotes. In fact, it is standard practice in many companies' purchasing policies. You can also ask them to present their best rate up front.

Instead of requesting a flat estimate, be sure to ask vendors to outline all setup fees and estimated shipping charges, as well as any rush charges that may apply, so you can compare the full cost.

Shop around to ensure you're getting the best price and value possible. It is a big investment in your booth, so it's good to do your research!

"Different manufacturers or vendors will charge different prices, so you should explore your options."

Concluding thoughts

You don't necessarily have to pinch pennies when it comes to creating your swag, especially if merch is a big part of your brand. Merchandise doesn't have to be an exorbitant expense, either.

By following these tips, you'll ensure you're making the most of your merchandise investment and getting quality promotional items that represent your brand. Potential prospects may notice the care you put into the decision, which could work in your favor in influencing them to do business with you!