How Attending a Tradeshow Adds Value to the Customer Experience

The average customer or dealer may not initially see the value in their local foodservice manufacturer's rep attending a tradeshow out of town. The photo highlights may spotlight the happy hours and friendships, but there's a lot going on behind the scenes that doesn't translate in those photos that pop up on an Instagram grid. The Pro Reps West team is putting boots to the ground in 2023; we recently attended the NAFEM Show in Orlando, Florida, and are gearing up to head to the Windy City to attend The National Restaurant Association Show in May.

In addition to these larger tradeshows that we emphasize attending as a team, we've also been traveling across the country this year, meeting at our manufacturer's factories, immersing ourselves into their processes, and becoming part of their culture so that we are overly confident in being a branch and representative of their brand.

Tradeshows Provide Training

While it can be easy to overlook the benefits of these events, there's no substitute for the kind of hands-on training and exposure we get to experience at a major tradeshow. As a rep, our job is to provide customers with expert advice and guidance, and to do that effectively, we need to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies, trends, and innovations in the industry. Attending a tradeshow is an excellent way to do just that.

For starters, attending a tradeshow allows us to see and experience new products in action. Whether it's testing out a new fryer or seeing how a new type of oven operates, we get a firsthand look at the latest technologies and innovations. The educational opportunities are like no other. Most manufacturers at foodservice tradeshows offer seminars and workshops led by industry experts, which can provide valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations. We learn about new techniques, best practices, and emerging technologies that can, in turn, help you stay ahead of the curve and provide better service. 

The Value in Networking

Attending a tradeshow isn't just about meeting potential clients. It's about networking with other industry professionals, learning about new trends and technologies, and expanding our knowledge of the industry. The foodservice industry is a massive community that's constantly evolving and innovating. That's why it's essential to take advantage of the opportunities that tradeshows provide for networking and education.

One of the most significant benefits of attending a foodservice tradeshow is meeting and networking with other industry professionals. While you may see the whisky sours from happy hour, we are also learning from these colleagues' experiences, sharing best practices, and building relationships that can help you in the long run. Whether it's exchanging business cards, joining a roundtable discussion, or attending a seminar, there are countless opportunities to connect with other like-minded professionals at a tradeshow.

Another reason to attend a foodservice tradeshow is to stay up to date with industry trends and technologies. These events are the perfect place to see new products, taste new flavors, and learn about emerging trends. By staying on top of the latest developments in the industry, we can better serve our customers and offer them the most innovative and relevant solutions. Ultimately, attending a foodservice tradeshow is an investment in your business, and overall experience. We don't pass up an opportunity to learn, and know that expanded industry knowledge is valuable. We aim to break it down and use that knowledge to help drive the customer experience and offer unique solutions from professionals trained in the field, as well as from the factory.

Meet Up With Us at NRA

The Pro Reps West team will be heading to Chicago in May to take on the National Restaurant Association Show. Are you curious where you may be able to find us? The following brands will have display boots at NRA:

• Amana Commercial - Booth #5018
• Champion – Booth #5008
• CFS Brands – Booth #2601
• CMA – Booth #4819
• Edlund – Booth #5022
• Marra Forni – Booth #2708
• Mercer Culinary – Booth #1248
• Scotsman – Booth #5001
• Vitamix – Booth #3212
• Welbilt (Delfield, Frymaster, Garland, Lincoln, Merrychef, and Convotherm) – Booth #4413
• Convotherm and Merrychef Kitchen Innovations – Booth #4193
  
  

Meeting up with Pro Reps West can be an excellent opportunity to learn about new products and services that may meet your specific needs and receive expert advice and support in making informed purchasing decisions. Will you be on the road, and would you be interested in meeting up with us along the way?

Click the image below to set up a time to chat.