Logistics/Packaging/Supply Chain Trade Show

A manufacturer cannot do everything. There are manufacturers who prefer to get their products to the final consumer themselves but there are still some aspects that third party contractors work on. A major aspect of this is logistics. Logistics concern warehousing, integrated operation and transportation. This is done in a way patterned to meet the needs of the consumers.

Logistics has to do with the movement, distribution and management of goods and materials through an organization. It is also the planning and control of the movement of the products of a company. Logistics is traditionally done by the production company.

We have third party logistics companies and fourth party logistics companies. Third party logistics companies are companies that handle the distribution and storage for production companies.

A fourth party logistics company is one that does not own asset but executes logistics for its clients. This is by outsourcing aspects of the job to other companies.

A tradeshow is an event where the players in several business niches are around to showcase their products, network, meet new customers, exhibit new products, etc. However, we have a niche-specific tradeshow. This is basically a tradeshow for the players in a niche. An example is the fashion trade show.

Networking is a very important aspect of a tradeshow. Here are pointers to help you achieve more at a tradeshow.

Attend Every Part of the Event (dinners, seminars, etc.)

With industry players from the third-party and fourth-party logistics and representatives from stores and companies looking to outsource their logistics, there is a networking pool to benefit from. However, when you are not fully around, you may miss out a lot on the many benefits you can gain from networking. Plan the event beforehand and clear your schedule ahead of the event. Ensure you are fully around for the day(s) of the event and put your best into networking as a compensation for your time.

Network as Much as You Can and as Effectively as You Can

You have to attend with a mindset of achieving your networking goals and you have to be effective at it. You must put in every necessary effort to see how your distribution line can be better. Have cards along with you to give out. Networking basically means establishing connections with new people and looking at areas of mutual benefit for both parties. See ways they can also benefit from you and care to look presentable as it influences the first impression others have of you.

Set Your Goal and Strategy Before You Attend an Event

It may amount to a waste of time to have people to network with around but you don’t have plans on what you want. You may even know what you want but don’t know how to get it. This is why you need clear goals and a workable strategy before you attend the tradeshow. Discuss the goals and the strategy with those more experienced than you to help you vet them.