Author:
Jackie Holbrook
Realtree camouflage is all about blending in but once a year, the company’s goal is to stand out. Realtree was one of the many sponsors of the 2018 ATA Trade Show. The company’s sponsorship included window clings in the skywalks leading into the Indiana Convention Center from two hotels. “Obviously we are trying to reach our industry partners,” said Dodd Clifton, Realtree’s public relations and marketing coordinator. “Realtree partners not just with retailers, but manufacturers who are here as well.”
“I think it’s one of the coolest things that we’ve done this year,” Joy Bastawrous, senior marketing manager of the ATA Trade Show and membership, said about the skywalk sponsorship. The skywalk clings are just one example of how Bastawrous and the rest of the ATA team work with Trade Show sponsors to maximize their sponsorships. “Our goal is to help them get their message and brand in front of people and get the word out, and so we will absolutely tailor sponsorships,” said Bastawrous.
Sponsorship opportunities can also pop up in unexpected places. Like the skywalk hallways or outside the Show floor doors. Photo Credit: Shane Indrebo
Becoming a sponsor can boost brand awareness in a big way. “If you saw something that was unique that stood out – that could be you,” said Bastawrous. The ATA works closely with exhibitors to help them choose sponsorships that meet their marketing needs and promotional goals. “They are our partners, we really, really view it as a partnership,” said Bastawrous. “We are 100 percent there to get their message out and get their products and brand more exposure to get them more business.”
Sponsorships range from big displays like vehicles to pocket sized ones like hotel keys. They can mean your company will be in the line of sight before people even hit the busy Show floor. At the 2018 Show, Mannequins decked out in Nomad clothing greeted Show attendees at many entrances. Plano had several large banners hanging over main registration, and floor clings leading attendees to its booth inside. Mossy Oak also had floor clings, as well as their logos on the main registration structure and sponsorships at the food courts inside the exhibit hall.
Sponsorship opportunities can also pop up in unexpected places. In Indiana, as guests checked into nearby hotels, QuietKat bikes were on display in the lobbies. “Having a presence on the Show floor is great but if you want to go above and beyond and get more recognition, getting a sponsorship is a good idea,” said Bastawrous.
There are many different ways to become a Trade Show sponsor and it’s never too early to start thinking about it because spots fill up fast. Photo Credit: Shane Indrebo
Sponsorships can look a number of different ways. Companies wanting to showcase new products or lines often choose the Show’s Featured Products Showcase area. Additional sponsorship opportunities include:
- Banners
- Directional signage
- Lobby displays
- Hotel key cards
- Visa gift cards
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- ATA Show Guide and Membership Directory
- Big Buck Tags Coupon Book
- Goodie bags
- And more
There are many different ways to become a Trade Show sponsor and it’s never too early to start thinking about it because spots fill up fast. ATA members that purchased sponsorships for the 2018 Trade Show have until March 31, 2018 to renew the same sponsorship spot. If they choose not to, those spots open up to other ATA members. Planning ahead can confirm prime real estate for many of the opportunities, it also ensures sponsorship materials will be done on time and allows for time to get creative.
The ATA would like to thank all of its 2018 Trade Show sponsors. To talk about sponsoring the 2019 Trade Show in Louisville contact Joy Bastawrous, ATA’s senior marketing manager of Trade Show and membership, at (832) 338-8625 or email joybastawrous@archerytrade.org.