This post is based on a topic covered in one of our Friday Flashback newsletters. Friday Flashback is a weekly newsletter from Kaeser & Blair’s Chief Revenue Officer, Liza Sachs. Each edition contains valuable insights and updates for the promotional products industry.

Hey there, promotional product pros! Can you feel that crisp air and smell the pumpkin spice? That’s right, it’s not just fall knocking at our door—it’s the holiday selling season! And you know what that means: it’s time to deck the halls with boughs of… new product samples! Let’s dive into why you should be jingle bell rocking your way to your local association tradeshow this season.

Why Tradeshows are Your Secret Santa

Listen up, elves! Here’s why attending your local tradeshow is as essential as reindeer are to Santa’s sleigh:

1. Trend-Spotting Extravaganza: Stay ahead of the curve and be the first to know what’s hot and what’s not. It’s like being on Santa’s “nice” list, but for business!
2. Networking Wonderland: Mingle with fellow industry pros. Who knows? You might meet your next business bestie or find a mentor who’s as wise as ol’ Saint Nick himself.
3. Product Playground: Get hands-on with the latest gadgets and gizmos. It’s like an early Christmas morning, minus the pajamas (unless that’s your thing—we don’t judge).
4. Inspiration Station: Stuck in a creative rut? These shows are idea goldmines. You’ll leave with more brilliant concepts than there are lights on a Christmas tree!
5. Learning Bonanza: Workshops, seminars, and talks—oh my! Soak up knowledge like a sponge in eggnog. Your brain will thank you later.

Your Tradeshow Treasure Map

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. We’ve got a map that’d make any elf navigator proud. Check out these upcoming regional tradeshows and find your perfect match:

• MiPPA: Lavonia, MI (10/8-10/9): “Discover the charm of Michigan in Lavonia!”
• PMANC: Fremont, CA (10/15-10/16): “California dreaming in Fremont!”
• GCPPA: Lauderdale, FL (10/15-10/16): “Sunny skies and networking in Ft. Lauderdale!”
• SPPA: Gulf Shores, AL (10/23-24): “Beach vibes and business in Gulf Shores!”

Your Tradeshow Survival Kit

Before you dash off to these wonderlands of promotional products, remember to pack your essentials:

1. Comfy shoes: You’ll be walking more than Santa on Christmas Eve.
2. Business cards: Network like it’s going out of style (spoiler: it’s not).
3. An open mind: Be ready to learn, adapt, and grow faster than Jack’s beanstalk.
4. Your best smile: It’s your most powerful tool—use it wisely!
5. A game plan: Know which booths you want to hit but leave room for serendipity.

Wrap It Up (With a Bow on Top)

Remember, folks, these tradeshows are more than just events—they’re your launchpad for a great holiday selling season. They’re where trends are born, deals are made, and where you can transform from a promotional products elf to a full-fledged Santa of sales.

So, what are you waiting for? Hop on your sleigh (or, you know, your preferred mode of transportation) and make your way to the nearest tradeshow.

P.S. Don’t forget to share your tradeshow adventures with us! We love seeing our community sparkle brighter than a Christmas tree. Use #KBHolidayMagic in your posts, and let’s spread some cheer together!