Talking on the show floor last week at GlobalShop, one industry professional, describing the state of the retail sector, said, “There’s much more optimism. But nothing’s in motion yet.”
You couldn’t help but feel that sentiment on the show floor, as well. Many exhibitors were ready for face time with attendees, but they weren’t showcasing as many new products. We all also noticed the dearth of inspiring booths and the conspicuous absence of some high-profile exhibitors. And yet, there was still an audible buzz on the show floor, the return of some festive evening parties and a lot of “great to see you again” conversations that abounded throughout the three-day event.
And maybe that’s the focus right now. Face time, keeping in touch and planning together about the future, so that when it happens, we’re already connected and ready to go.
Still, there’s one lesson I hope vendors and exhibitors take to heart – tradeshow attendees are looking for inspiration, whether with new products, ideas or booth designs. “I missed vendors using innovation to stand apart,” commented one VMSD board member. There was a lot of speculation about next year’s EuroShop in Dusseldorf, Germany, and its usual showcase on creativity.
Amuneal’s towering metal flower-covered booth, which won a VMSD Outstanding Booth award, stood out this year for many reasons. It demonstrated the company’s skill in metalwork, as well as (and maybe more importantly) its passion. That impression will stay in the minds of many as we plug through 2010 and I’ve got to think that makes it worth the expense. Here’s hoping others give us more to talk about next year.