Where Are Trade Shows Going?

In our first article on What’s Happening with Trade Shows, we covered the SAAC Show, a strong regional association event, in Long Beach, Calif. There were a couple of anonymous comments bemoaning that the article featured links to product videos from some interesting items we found at the show.

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My Very Personal Connection to the ALS Challenge

You’ve probably seen the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge all over social media and TV. Perhaps you’ve taken it. For me, it had special meaning and a very personal connection. My older brother Martin, a natural athlete, prolific writer, creative thinker, baseball aficionado—and the bravest person I’ve ever known; lost a courageous battle to ALS. So, while I generally shy away from fads, I happily took the challenge and donated money to ALS as well.

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When Will It Happen? (Ask “When” Three Times) Part 5 of “Get Curious About Your Business”

Time. It’s here and it’s gone. There are lots of clichés about time and there ain’t no time like the present. So let’s get going. And let’s get growing. Ask yourself “When” at least three times.

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5 Problems With Promotional Supplier Videos

Dear promotional product supplier: That video you made has a great soundtrack. The special effects? Nice touch. I even like the way you demo the product. It makes me want to sell the item. I want to feature your video on our website and social media channels, which reach thousands of people every week. Unfortunately …

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Connecting—Not a New Concept

We’ve all seen ways to buy and sell—from brick-and-mortar to online shopping; from receiving letters to being deluged with email. The handwritten card seems to be the new way to cut through the clutter that we created by trying to reach buyers on their terms. The irony is that the everyday interpersonal medium from our pre-1990s world is becoming a little more exciting simply due to its rarity.

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Truth in Product Labels—This One Will Kill You

Proper labeling of promotional products is a big deal. While sourcing, the proper risk assessment of any product must include planned usage group as well as delivery destination.

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What’s Happening with Trade Shows?

Full disclosure here—and I’ve said this before—I love trade shows. There is no better way for distributors to connect with their supplier partners. Suppliers have the opportunity to connect with new prospects and to strengthen relationships with current customers. There is no question, however, that the dynamics of trade shows are changing. It’s a big topic that I will address in two parts.

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Feeling Price Pressure from Online Discounters? Here’s What You Can Do

What do you do when a prospect tells you they can buy the promotional products you’re recommending cheaper on the Internet?

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Accountability Begins with You


Accountability—the very mention conjures up feelings and thoughts of stress, being under a microscope or micro-managed. Accountability is imperative to running any organization. Whether it is a business, a household or a team—everyone needs to be accountable. So where does it begin?

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