The importance of logistics managers in the events industry

4 May 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

In the modern era, the business world is becoming increasingly globalized. This has led to a surge in the demand for logistics managers who are responsible for managing the movement of goods and services. The role of logistics managers is critical in ensuring that a company’s supply chain is functioning efficiently, as they are responsible for coordinating the entire logistics process, from planning and scheduling to delivery and management of inventory.

Logistics is also an essential component of event planning and management. The success of an event is often determined by how well it is organized and executed, and logistics play a crucial role in ensuring that everything runs smoothly.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of logistics for events and the role and responsibilities of a logistics manager in detail.

What is a Logistics Manager?

A logistics manager manages the movement of goods and services within a company’s supply chain. He oversees the planning, execution, and monitoring of the entire logistics process, including transportation, storage, and distribution of goods and services. He is responsible for ensuring the supply chain runs smoothly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

A logistics manager is typically responsible for managing a team of logistics professionals, including warehouse supervisors, transportation coordinators, and inventory analysts. In addition, he works closely with other departments of the company, such as production, sales, and finance, to ensure that all aspects of the supply chain are aligned and functioning efficiently.

The responsibilities of a Logistics Manager

The responsibilities of a logistics manager vary depending on the size and scope of the company they work for. However, some of the most common duties of a logistics manager include:

Planning and scheduling

The logistics manager is responsible for creating a logistics plan that outlines the movement of goods and services from the point of origin to the point of consumption. This includes scheduling transportation, managing inventory levels, and coordinating the activities of different departments.

Transportation management

The logistics manager is responsible for managing the transportation of goods and services from one location to another.

This includes selecting the appropriate mode of transportation, negotiating rates with carriers, managing the shipping process, and ensuring that goods are delivered on time.

Inventory management

The logistics manager manages inventory levels to ensure that goods are available when needed. This involves forecasting demand, ordering goods, and managing storage facilities.

Risk management

The logistics manager is responsible for identifying and mitigating risks associated with the company’s logistics operations. This includes managing risks related to transportation, warehousing, and inventory management.

Supplier management

Managing relationships with suppliers and ensuring they meet the company’s quality standards is a part of the logistics manager’s job. This involves monitoring supplier performance, negotiating contracts, and resolving any issues that arise.

Cost management

The logistics manager is responsible for managing logistics costs and ensuring that the supply chain operates cost-effectively. This typically involves analyzing logistics data, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and implementing cost-reduction strategies, such as negotiating rates with carriers, managing warehouse costs, and optimizing inventory levels.

Team management

The logistics manager manages logistics teams, including hiring, training, and supervising employees. This includes ensuring team members have the necessary skills and resources to perform their jobs effectively.

Performance monitoring

The logistics manager monitors logistics performance to ensure the company meets its objectives. This includes tracking key performance indicators, such as on-time delivery rates, inventory levels, and transportation costs.

Compliance management

The logistics manager is responsible for ensuring the company’s logistics operations comply with all relevant laws and regulations. This includes managing compliance with customs regulations, safety regulations, and environmental regulations.

Warehousing

The logistics manager is responsible for managing the company’s warehousing operations. This includes selecting and managing warehouse locations and inventory levels and ensuring that the warehouse operates efficiently.

The skills required to be a Logistics Manager

A logistics manager’s job requires a wide range of skills and abilities. Some of the essential skills for this role include:

Analytical skills: analyzing complex data to identify trends and patterns that can be used to optimize logistics operations.
Leadership skills: leading a team of professionals and motivating them to achieve their goals.
Communication skills: communicating effectively with team members, suppliers, and customers to ensure that logistics operations are running smoothly.
Problem-solving skills: identifying problems and finding solutions quickly and efficiently.
Technical skills: understanding logistics systems and technologies, such as transportation management software and warehouse management systems.

Career path and salary range

The career path of a logistics manager typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field. However, some companies may require a master’s degree in logistics or business administration for more advanced positions.

Entry-level positions in logistics management may include roles such as transportation coordinator, warehouse supervisor, or inventory analyst. As they gain experience, they may advance to transportation, distribution, or supply chain management roles.

The salary of logistics managers varies depending on their level of experience and the size and scope of the company they work for.

In the USA, the median pay was $77,030 annually in 2021. The job outlook is excellent, with an estimated 28% projected growth rate in employment from 2021 to 2031.

In Canada, the salary ranges from Can$52,000 to Can$79,000, while in France, the salary ranges from €30,000 to €40,800 annually.

The importance of logistics professionals for events

Photo by Shoot Studio

Here are some of the reasons why logistics is vital for events:

1. Timely delivery

Events require a lot of equipment and supplies, such as audiovisual equipment, furniture, decorations, and catering supplies. Logistics helps ensure that all these items are delivered to the event venue on time so the event can start as planned.

2. Coordination of vendors

Events often involve multiple vendors, such as caterers, decorators, and audiovisual technicians. Logistics helps to coordinate these vendors so that they can work together seamlessly to create a cohesive event experience.

3. Transportation

Events may require transportation for attendees, speakers, and VIPs. Logistics helps to arrange transportation to and from the event venue and transportation for equipment and supplies.

4. Venue setup

Logistics is critical in ensuring the event venue is set up correctly, with all equipment and supplies in the right place. This includes arranging seating, tables, signage, and other items necessary for the event.

5. On-site management

During the event, logistics is essential for managing any issues that may arise, such as last-minute changes, equipment malfunctions, or unexpected circumstances. Logistics professionals are trained to handle these situations quickly and efficiently, minimizing the impact on the event.

In conclusion

As we’ve seen, the job of a logistics manager is a complex one that requires a lot of planning, coordination, and attention to detail. In addition, logistics managers have to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously while ensuring that deadlines are met, budgets are adhered to, and quality standards are maintained.

Logistics plays a crucial role in the success of events by ensuring that everything is delivered and set up on time, vendors are coordinated, transportation is arranged, and any issues that arise are managed efficiently. Without logistics, events would be chaotic and disorganized, which could lead to a poor attendee experience and damage to the event’s reputation.

At totm exposition, we have experienced logistics managers who will ensure your participation at a trade show goes smoothly! Contact us to discuss your future project!

Author : Véronique Colombani

Calculer retour sur investissement d'un événement professionnel

How to Calculate the Return On Investment of a Trade Show

25 April 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

Ready to invest in a trade show? It’s a great idea, but before you take the plunge, you need to understand how to measure your return on investment (ROI) to make sure it’s worth it.

Let our trade show booth manufacturers explain everything you need to know about calculating trade show ROI. Learn how to maximize the benefits of your investment so that your company can get the most out of participating in an event!

What is the ROI of an event?

ROI, or Return on Investment, is a key indicator of profitability. It measures the relationship between the profits and costs of an event or other commercial effort. In other words, ROI evaluates the success of an event by comparing the benefits with the costs of participating. Benefits can be measured according to your goals, which could include sales, revenue or any other performance indicator.

By calculating your ROI, you can easily evaluate the cost of participating in a trade show and whether or not your event was a success.

Why calculate the ROI of an event?

Calculating the ROI of an event helps organizers in two specific ways.

First, it justifies the investment to management by showing that the money invested in marketing and events brings concrete and measurable results. The success of an event can only be proven by predicting the ROI and then measuring the results.

Calculating ROI makes it possible to measure marketing effectiveness. Analyzing what worked and what didn’t during an event helps you make informed decisions for the next time: change the format, adjust the target audience, redefine the budget, etc.

How to calculate the ROI of an event

Calculating the return on investment (ROI) of an event can be difficult, as positive outcomes are not always immediately visible. For example, it may take several months before you can measure improved company awareness or new business contacts generated from an event. Begin measuring the ROI by focusing on what you can evaluate with certainty. Use this formula:

ROI = (Profit – Costs)/Costs.

The profit represents the benefits of attending the show, such as sales or qualified leads, and the costs include all the investments necessary to participate, such as booth rental, travel and accommodation, communication and booth manufacturing costs. It is important to include all costs in you calculation, no matter how small.

Step 1 – Define your main objective

First, define your primary goal in attending the event. The context, stakes and objectives will differ depending on the type of event (trade show, congress, conference, etc.) and the target audience (customers, partners, prospects, employees, etc.). However, B2B events can be categorized according to 4 main business objectives:

Increase awareness and build brand image
Generate qualified sales leads
Inform and retain customers
Network and improve reputation

Step 2 – Define KPIs to track this objective

To verify whether you have achieved your goal(s), choose indicators to track to measure your success. For example, if the objective is to increase awareness and build brand image, relevant KPIs could include:

Enrollment
Media coverage
Presence on social networks, etc.

If the goal is to generate qualified leads, KPIs could include:

Lead generation
Opportunities
Lead qualification, etc.

Step 3 – Collect data for tracking KPIs

After defining your goals and KPIs, it’s time to gather relevant data with the help of an event management platform. Choose a platform that will allow you to collect and track all event data in real time.

Step 4 – Analyze the results and improve your strategy

Last, analyze the KPIs and compare them to your predefined objectives to determine whether the event was a success. Use what you have learned to identify areas of improvement for the company’s future event strategy.

There are several ways to analyze event data:

Compare the data from several editions of the same event
Compare your data with competitors or partners as a benchmark
Compare data from 2 different event formats, taking into consideration the length of the event, participation, etc.

Tips for improving trade show ROI

To improve trade show ROI, try adopting effective strategies to reduce costs and increase benefits. Here are some tips for reducing the amount you need to invest to participate in a trade show:

Plan ahead to avoid last minute expenses
Choose less expensive alternatives for every aspect of your participation
Share costs with other companies or partners
Use less expensive technology

To improve results, set clear goals, train your staff, and offer special promotions to attract visitors to your booth.

It is also a good idea to design an attractive trade show booth with bright colors, attractive lighting and eye-catching visuals that attract visitors’ attention. Opting for an eco-friendly trade show booth will give an extra boost to your brand image.

Another way to promote your presence at an event is through effective social media trade show marketing and communication, before and during the show. A good communication strategy can help you generate leads before an event and interact effectively with visitors while it’s taking place. Finally, don’t forget to follow up with qualified leads and use information you collected to personalize your communications and guide prospects through the buying process.

totm exposition helps you get the most out of trade shows

Attending a trade show can be a worthwhile business investment. Follow the tips we’ve shared today to maximize profits, minimize costs and achieve an optimal ROI.

Go ahead and plan your next trade show appearance now! If you plan properly, you can boost your visibility, increase your brand awareness and generate new business opportunities.

If you are interested in organizing an event, contact totm exhibition. We are committed to helping businesses succeed at trade shows of all kinds.

Calculer le bilan carbone d'un événement

How to Reduce the Carbon Footprint of an Event

11 April 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

Events are an opportunity to bring people together to celebrate, learn or share. Unfortunately, they are also often synonymous with litter, excessive energy consumption and waste. The environmental impact of events is often overlooked, but they do represent a significant carbon footprint.

It is crucial to learn to adopt more sustainable practices in event production. Our trade show exhibit specialists show you how to assess the carbon footprint of your event: learn which factors are important and which tools can help you measure and reduce your environmental impact.

Understanding the carbon footprint of an event

A carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted by an activity or product, usually expressed as an equivalent amount of CO2 emissions. To evaluate the carbon footprint of an event, you will have to calculate all related GHG emissions, including travel, energy consumption during the event, and waste.

How to measure the carbon footprint of an event

Before you can reduce the environmental impact of your event, you need to conduct a complete assessment of all activities related to event organization and hosting. This can be done using online tools or specialized software, or with the help of a carbon footprint assessment expert.

Elements to consider include:

Greenhouse gas emissions generated by travel (participants and organizers)
Energy consumption related to lighting, heating, air conditioning and audiovisual equipment
Waste production, including packaging, food waste, paper and cardboard

Events can have a significant environmental impact on local biodiversity, including air and water quality. To minimize the environmental impact of your event, it is crucial to assess your carbon footprint and take steps to reduce it.

Methods for calculating an event’s carbon footprint

Once all sources of GHG emissions have been identified, you can use specific data and calculation tools to measure them.

There are various ways to calculate an event’s carbon footprint. The most common method is the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which measures GHG emissions over the entire life cycle of the event, from the production of raw materials to the end of life of event-related waste.

Another popular method is the Bilan Carbone, which quantifies GHG emissions over a given period of time, generally one year. Developed by ADEME in collaboration with Jean Marc Jancovici, it is often used to evaluate the carbon footprint of an organization as a whole but can also be used to evaluate the carbon footprint of an event.

Online tools to evaluate the carbon footprint of an event

There are many online tools you can use to calculate the carbon footprint of an event. Beware that free tools are often based on generic data and may not be able to provide accurate, event-specific results.

Myclimate is one of the most popular online tools for assessing the carbon footprint of an event.

GET is an integrated web-based assessment platform conceived and designed to evaluate the sustainability and environmental performance of events.

Reducing the carbon footprint of an event

To reduce the carbon footprint of an event or to attend an event in an environmentally responsible manner, you’ll need a strategy. This can include reducing the use of disposable materials, optimizing participants’ travel, reducing energy consumption, implementing a sorting system, etc.

You’ll also need to involve event organizers so that they adopt responsible behaviors. Here are some methods for reducing the environmental impact of your event:

Encourage participants and spectators to use public or environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
Use sustainable materials wherever you can, with a focus on local and organic products and suppliers. Setting up eco-friendly booths will really show your commitment.
Offer vegetarian or vegan catering options to avoid the carbon footprint associated with producing meat.
Use solar panels and other renewable energy sources to power the event.
Implement a waste sorting and recycling system.
Educate participants and spectators on the importance of sustainability through workshops and awareness messages.
Provide financial incentives to encourage participants and spectators to adopt environmentally responsible behaviors.
Partner with environmental organizations.

Reducing the carbon footprint of events helps the surrounding area achieve carbon neutrality, since events are an integral part of local culture and activity. Environmentally-friendly events are more and more in demand, and the decision to promote eco-responsible event design is an important one.

Totm Exposition: your partner for eco-friendly events

Reducing the carbon footprint of an event is a critical to taking care of our planet and responding to current environmental challenges. Everyone involved in an event will need to commit in multiple ways to make a low-carbon strategy effective.

By adopting sustainable practices, we can ensure that events continue to be a source of entertainment and social interaction while preserving the environment.

If you are interested in organizing a sustainable event, contact totm. We are committed to planning environmentally friendly events using custom booths that meet your needs and reduce your impact on the climate.

Why adding wellness to your events is essential

6 April 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost every organization through labor shortages, supply chain problems, and the economic ramifications that have refocused attention on mental health and wellness in general.

As a result, incorporating wellness elements in events is becoming more common.

Indeed, according to PCMA, “two out of five planners said they had added content related to workplace mental health and work/life balance to their educational program. An equal number have changed the design of their in-person event—the most common tweaks are more networking and activity/movement opportunities, followed by healthier F&B options.”

For a long time, physical health offerings (yoga, morning runs, healthier food and beverage options, etc.) were a “nice-to-have” option at many events. However, it’s becoming a requirement if you want people to attend.

In this article, we are going to explain why you should include wellness in your corporate events and how to go about it.

Why include wellness in your events?

Adding wellness to your events is essential for several reasons.

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

If you are organizing internal events

When you plan corporate events for employees like team-building exercises, seminars, etc., including some wellness components will be beneficial in the following ways.

Encourage a healthy lifestyle.

Incorporating wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, or healthy food options during corporate events can encourage employees to adopt healthier habits, which can have long-term benefits for their overall health and well-being.

Boost employee morale.

Employees who feel that their company values their well-being are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their work.

Incorporating wellness into your events can help your employees feel appreciated and supported, which can improve morale and overall job satisfaction.

Reduce stress and burnout.

High levels of stress and burnout can negatively impact employee performance and productivity. Offering stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness exercises, guided meditation, or massages can help employees reduce their stress levels, improve their mental health, and avoid burnout.

Increase productivity.

A focus on wellness can lead to increased productivity and efficiency. Employees who feel healthy, energized, and engaged are more likely to perform well and achieve their goals.

Enhance company culture.

A focus on wellness can create a positive company culture that promotes health and well-being. This can attract and retain talented employees who value a healthy work-life balance. It can also promote a sense of community among employees.

If you are organizing conferences and trade shows

Adding wellness to your events will be beneficial in the following ways.

Help your attendees thrive.

During a nonstop day of programming, engagement may start to wane. Wellness intervals can keep your attendees from becoming overwhelmed with information. In addition, enjoying a few minutes between or after meetings to disengage and relax will allow them to feel more energized, balanced, and focused.

And why not plan an outdoor breakout session and incorporate walking into your event? That could help re-energize your attendees and improve their mood, blood flow, and cognitive function.

Attract more attendees.

The success of your event in terms of participation can be impacted by incorporating wellness, as it will draw attendees interested in health and wellness. By doing this, you may be able to expand your audience and boost event attendance.

Health and wellness ideas for corporate events

Meditation and yoga sessions

By offering yoga and meditation sessions before or after the event, you can help your employees relax and focus.

These sessions can also be used during a conference or trade show to help attendees relax and rejuvenate. Indeed, trade shows are notoriously exhausting for exhibitors, organizers, and attendees. These sessions can be scheduled during breaks or before and after the event.

Photo by Anupam Mahapatra on Unsplash

And for the one in six event attendees with sensory-processing issues, why not take inspiration from the Overland Park Convention Center in Kansas, which opened a dedicated room with reduced lighting and noise for guests who may feel overstimulated and need a more secure environment?

You can also schedule short mindfulness breaks throughout the event to help attendees stay focused and centered. These breaks can include breathing exercises, guided meditation, or other mindfulness activities.

Healthy food and beverage options

By providing healthy catering options, you’re promoting good nutrition and healthy eating habits.

Instead of feeding your employees and attendees donuts, candy, and fried foods, try to include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-sugar beverages.

Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash

Why not set up a smoothie bar with either a “Smoothie Barista” who will make the smoothies or a selection of milk and milk substitutes, yogurts, fresh fruits and vegetables, protein powders, etc., and blenders so that your participants can make their own?

As a way to start the day off right, you could also host an outdoor breakfast with coffee, tea, and a variety of foods like yogurt, fresh fruit, and granola.

Also, think about adding more creative non-alcoholic drink options to your after-work parties, such as mocktails, so that people can enjoy a “fun” drink without it having to be alcohol-based.

Fitness challenges and active breaks

According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise increases overall health and well-being. Physical activity may also help boost the production of endorphins, your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters.

By organizing a fitness challenge, you can encourage your employees to get active and improve their fitness levels.

These fitness challenges can also be part of team-building activities. Aside from being a great way to encourage a sense of belonging in the company, team-building activities involving physical exercises, such as hiking or outdoor games, can improve your employees’ mood.

Think about rewarding participation in the challenge, as it will help get your employees on board!

Photo by Gabin Vallet on Unsplash

During conferences and trade shows, especially if they span a few days, you can encourage attendees to get moving by offering active break options, such as group walks, stretching exercises, or fitness challenges.

You might want to avoid scheduling a 5K run/walk as it might be overwhelming for most, but how about an 8,000-step-a-day challenge?

Massage therapy

You can promote relaxation and stress relief among your staff by offering massage therapy during breaks. This will, in turn, help them be more productive.

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

The same is true for attendees at an event; quick massage sessions can be an excellent way to decompress and encourage relaxation. So why not plan for quieter areas with massage chairs where your attendees can enjoy a few minutes of me-time?

Mental health support

Many people struggle with their mental health, even though they might not show it.

Photo by Emily Underworld on Unsplash

Providing resources and support for your employees struggling with mental health issues can make all the difference. You can organize talks and workshops to raise awareness about mental health issues and offer support for those who need it. You can also subsidize mental wellness and therapy services.

During conferences and trade shows, you can set up a few quiet areas where people can meet counselors or find resources for seeking help.

In conclusion

As we’ve seen, adding wellness to your internal corporate events can benefit both your employees and your organization. Indeed, by promoting health and wellness, you can help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance, improve their well-being, and ultimately boost productivity and engagement, which in turn, creates a more positive workplace culture that supports the success of your organization.

As for conferences or trade shows, incorporating health and wellness elements can create a positive, energizing experience for attendees that supports their physical, mental, and emotional health and promotes well-being and productivity.

Author : Veronique Colombani

Eco-Friendly Trade Show Booths for Sustainable Events

24 March 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

The events industry can have a significant impact on the environment, especially when it comes to trade show booths. More and more companies are looking to reduce their carbon footprint and take a more responsible approach to sustainability. One way to do this is with an eco-friendly exhibit booth, an increasingly popular choice for many companies.

By choosing an eco-friendly trade show booth, you can improve your company’s brand image and help protect the environment.

totm exposition trade booth manufacturer in Montreal tells you everything you need to know about green trade show booths.

What is a green trade show booth?

An eco-friendly trade show booth, or “green” booth, is designed and constructed in an environmentally friendly way.

Choosing a green booth helps minimize the environmental impact of trade shows while allowing exhibitors to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and improve their environmental performance.

Companies who want to be seen as environmentally responsible trade show exhibitors or to strengthen their brand image while reducing their environmental impact find an ideal solution in committing to a green trade show booth.

To qualify as “green”, a trade show booth must meet several durability and reusability criteria. The booth should be designed from sustainable materials such as cardboard, wood and aluminum. It should also be equipped with LED lighting, which is more energy efficient than incandescent lighting.

Keep in mind that an eco-responsible trade show booth can also be constructed as a modular booth capable of being reused and reconfigured in countless ways.

Use environmentally friendly materials

One of the key criteria for designing an eco-friendly trade show booth is choosing to build using environmentally friendly materials. To qualify, the materials must be recyclable, obtained from renewable and sustainable sources, and environmentally friendly.

One material that qualifies as eco-friendly is wood, a natural material that is widely used for the construction of eco-friendly trade show booths. For partitions and panels, cardboard and natural fibers are a good choice.

Reduce waste: eco-design, reuse, recycle

Waste reduction is another important thing to consider when designing an eco-friendly trade show booth. The first step is to use recyclable and reusable materials in the design of the booth.

It is also important to think about the overall ecological impact of the event. Transportation and what you do with your booth when the event is done can have a big environmental impact. It’s worth taking the time to plan how you can recover and recycle your booth.

Finally, minimize the waste generated during construction and dismantling by using light materials and avoiding unnecessary packaging.

Manage energy consumption

Managing energy consumption is important if you want to have a truly eco-friendly trade show booth. Choose an energy-efficient type of booth lighting such as LEDs. Remember that using energy-efficient equipment such as laptops or tablets can also limit your electricity consumption.

Advantages of eco-responsible trade booths

At Totm Exhibition we understand how important brand image is to a company. If your trade booth sends the wrong message, it affects all your event communication.

1. Brand image: promote your commitment to sustainable development

By opting for an ecological trade show booth, you show your company’s commitment to sustainable development. Promoting your social responsibility and environmental commitment will strengthen your brand image.

Customers and prospects are increasingly interested in companies that are committed to environmental protection. A positive environmental image can translate into an overall better brand perception and greater customer loyalty.

2. Profitability: reduce operating costs

An eco-friendly trade show booth can also be financially profitable. Using environmentally friendly materials and reducing energy consumption can save on operating costs. Choosing durable, reusable materials can reduce maintenance and replacement costs.

3. Environmental impact: choose sustainable materials

Environmental impact is a major issue for today’s businesses. Green trade show booths help reduce a company’s carbon footprint by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. Committing to reduce, reuse and recycle materials from your trade show booth will reduce the amount of waste generated by your company.

Choose an eco-friendly trade show booth and show your environmental commitment

Eco-responsible trade show booths represent a major opportunity for companies to show their commitment to sustainable development at trade shows.

If you are interested in creating an eco-responsible trade show booth for your company, contact totm exposition. We specialize in designing and manufacturing custom trade show booths. With our expertise in eco-friendly design, we can help you create a booth that meets your commercial needs and reflects your commitment to protecting the environment.

At totm, we’re committed to helping the planet thrive. We’re not just traveling the world, we’re also making it greener one tree at a time! For each booth we bring to you, a tree is planted!

Cabinetmaker, a vital job in the events industry

10 March 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

The events industry employs a wide variety of professionals. Those who come first to mind are project managers, producers, salespeople at trade shows, etc. But many more profiles are contributing to the success of an event.

Regarding trade shows, exhibitors’ booths are among the most visible elements. The conception and building of these structures require a whole team of professionals: project managers, designers, warehouse workers, etc.

Today we are going to look at this sometimes unsung hero, the cabinetmaker.

Time for a little history lesson

Woodworking jobs are numerous and varied: lumberjack, carpenter, joiner, cooper, woodturner, wood carver, stringed instrument maker, etc.

Photo by Michel Rohan on Pixabay

In the events industry, and more specifically when it comes to exhibition booths for trade shows, one of these crafts is vital; we are talking about the cabinetmaker.

Cabinetmakers are craftspeople who transform wood to create functional or decorative furniture (source: Wikipedia).

Historically carpenters were the ones who worked with wood, mainly to build the structure of a house. Then came joiners who specialized in smaller items.

In France, the word “ébénisterie” (cabinetmaking) appeared for the first time in a dictionary in 1732. The word itself comes from “ébène” (ebony), a rare and valuable wood. Of course, using wood to decorate or build furniture dates back a lot earlier, since antiquity for Israel and Rome and the Middle Ages for Europe. But, before the 16th century, ebony was only used for small objects, such as chess boards or small boxes.

It’s really under the reign of Louis XIV, thanks to Charles Le Brun and Charles Boulle, that marquetry veneer really starts to become ubiquitous with the use of thin layers of ebony, copper, tin, or shells. By the mid-17th century, the joiners’ corporation finally welcomed this new category of craftsmen, initially referred to as “ebony joiners.”

Nowadays, cabinetmakers use new materials and sophisticated, high-performance machines, notably Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) Machines.

Photo by Shoot Studio

Cabinetmakers in the events industry

Let’s return to the events industry, specifically professional trade shows. Cabinetmakers are essential actors when it comes to building booths for exhibitors.

Indeed, the cabinetmaker is in charge of preparing and building all the walls and partitions, but also the furniture, following the blueprints provided by the designer. He is also an integral part of the assembly of all the components of a booth.

He has to work harmoniously with the project manager and the designer to ensure all the deadlines are met.

Photo by Shoot Studio

To complete these tasks successfully, the cabinetmaker has to master all the stages in a cabinetmaking project, i.e., conception, production, and assembly of all the components in the project. In addition, he must master the use of the tools required to complete the projects, be an expert in reading blueprints and be knowledgeable in mathematics. Finally, he needs a deep understanding of the raw materials that are used in construction. He now also needs to be able to program and operate CNC machines.

Education

In the USA, most employers prefer to hire individuals with a minimum of a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) credential, even though cabinetmakers are not required to have completed formal education related to the trade. Generally, a minimum of three years of experience is required to be considered a skilled craftsman. Still, some cabinetmaking apprenticeships are available after a high-school diploma and are usually completed in four years.

In the province of Quebec (Canada), specific diplomas are required to be able to work as a cabinetmaker: a Diploma of Vocational Studies (DEP) in Wood and related materials—cabinetmaking or a Diploma of College Studies (DEC) from the “École Nationale du meuble et de l’ébénisterie” (Victoriaville and Montréal).

Photo by Shoot Studio

In France, it is possible to start with a Professional Qualification (CAP) in cabinetmaking (2-year curriculum), then proceed with a Vocational Diploma (Bac Pro) in Cabinetmaking (also two years). Other diplomas are available such as a BMA (trade degree level 4) and a BTMS (vocational qualification) level 3. A master’s degree is in the process of being recognized on a national level.

How much does a cabinetmaker earn?

In the USA, cabinetmakers earned an average of $40,070 annually in 2021. In addition, the BLS (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) predicted a 4% growth in employment for the woodworking field between 2021 and 2031, with good job prospects for highly qualified candidates.

In Quebec, the hourly wage varies between Can$16 and Can$29.71, depending on experience and qualifications. This represents annual earnings between Can$33,280 and Can$61,796.80 (40-hour-week basis).

In France, a novice cabinetmaker is usually paid the minimum wage (which was set at €1,709.28 monthly before taxes as of January 2023, i.e., €20,511.36 per year). On the other hand, an experienced artisan can reach up to €3,800 per month, i.e., €45,600 per year.

In conclusion

Cabinetmakers are vital when it comes to building exhibition booths, as they move a booth from a project phase to a built structure.

At totm exposition, we are very proud of our team of cabinetmakers who bring to life the ideas of our designers and clients.

We are always looking for talented craftspeople! So if you are interested or know someone who might want to join a dynamic and friendly team, please get in touch!

Author : Veronique Colombani

How will the metaverse impact the events industry

9 February 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

In our previous article discussing five trends that would shape the meetings and events industry in 2023, we outlined how tech would be used to enhance the experience of the attendee, mainly thanks to the advent of metaverses.

In-person events have made a spectacular reappearance in the past year. However, it also looks like virtual and hybrid events are here to stay. But keeping attendees engaged during this type of event will require new techniques and features. Enter the metaverse.

In this article, we are going to explain what exactly a metaverse is and how metaverses might shape the events industry in the future.

What is a metaverse?

“In science fiction, the ‘metaverse’ is a hypothetical iteration of the Internet as a single, universal, and immersive virtual world that is facilitated by the use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) headsets. In colloquial usage, a ‘metaverse’ is a network of 3D virtual worlds focused on social connection.” (source: Wikipedia).

Photo by danmo on Pixabay

In other words, we are talking about digital spaces where users can interact with each other using individualized avatars. And that’s where they differ from today’s virtual meetings: participants will join a digital event area as their own avatar and have the flexibility to wander about freely, communicate with other attendees, and create their own unique event experience.

The concept has been around for quite a long time (the term itself originated in 1992), and the first metaverse is believed to be the virtual world universe Second Life back in 2003. However, the concept came back to the forefront in 2021 when Facebook was renamed “Meta Platforms.”

According to Forbes, the potential economic value of the metaverse could generate up to $5 trillion by 2030.

The technologies that go hand-in-hand with the metaverse

Elements of technology necessary to access the metaverse include regular computers and smartphones, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

Most people are very familiar with computers and smartphones, maybe less with VR and AR. So let’s define these concepts.

Virtual Reality

According to Wikipedia, “Virtual reality (VR) is a simulated experience that employs pose tracking and 3D near-eye displays to give the user an immersive feel of a virtual world. Applications of virtual reality include entertainment (particularly video games), education (such as medical or military training), and business (such as virtual meetings).”

Photo by Maxime Doré on Unsplash

Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) is “an interactive experience that combines the real world and computer-generated content. The content can span multiple sensory modalities, including visual, auditory, haptic, somatosensory, and olfactory. AR can be defined as a system that incorporates three basic features: a combination of real and virtual worlds, real-time interaction, and accurate 3D registration of virtual and real objects.” (source: Wikipedia).

Photo by xresch on Pixabay

To summarize the difference between virtual reality and augmented reality, VR virtually creates a real or imaginary environment, while AR adds virtual elements to the real environment.

What could it mean for events?

New opportunities for engagement

According to Jennifer Best, VP of marketing at speaker bureau All American Entertainment: “The metaverse will transform the way we meet by remedying the number-one grievance event planners have about virtual events—that current virtual event platforms do not allow for the level of engagement they desire at their events.”

This is mainly due to the fact that the metaverse expands on the concept of gamification, which is a powerful tool when it comes to incentivizing participation and driving engagement.

The metaverse will impact hybrid events most by breaking down the divide between the participants attending in person and those attending virtually. It might help ensure that both enjoy an engaging experience.

A more immersive experience for on-site attendees

The metaverse could become a medium that will only be constrained by the imagination of the attendees.

For example, they would be able to experience how it might feel to drive a high-power car from the safety of the car manufacturer’s booth.

Photo by XR Expo on Unsplash

We could also imagine a keynote address given in real time by a popular animated character or a panel whose stage changes based on the subject being covered.

An in-person-like feel to virtual events

A study by the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) showed that 76% of almost 9,000 participants said networking was a top driver when deciding whether or not to attend a conference or event.

And it comes as no surprise that it is still one of the most challenging aspects of virtual and hybrid events, primarily because of the absence of breakout sessions, which represent the best opportunity to engage in networking.

With the metaverse, we can imagine in-person attendees being able to see holograms of virtual participants through the use of AR glasses. At the same time, virtual attendees could watch in-person participants projected onto a VR version of the event. During virtual conferences, participants could debate topics in holographic form, undoubtedly offering a whole new experience of being connected whilst apart.

The metaverse could also enrich the way speakers can deliver information during virtual events. Speakers have a lot of methods at their disposal in an in-person event, but these tools don’t work for a virtual conference or panel. With the metaverse, we could imagine 3D models that would appear in front of participants.

Photo by Finepixels on Pixabay

In conclusion

In the corporate world, the metaverse could help bridge the gap between the physical and the virtual world, allowing for more engagement.

It’s still early to tell if the metaverse will succeed, as the necessary infrastructure is not ready yet, and there are multiple concerns regarding privacy or user safety.

Metaverses might bring some new exciting developments to the events industry. Event planners will need to adjust to it as it will undoubtedly provide opportunities for events to foster and build communities.

How to use experiential marketing at a trade show

1 February 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

Experiential marketing is a cutting-edge marketing technique used widely by companies and brands to establish lasting emotional connections with their prospects.

There are many ways to implement quality experiential marketing techniques with trade show visitors. Our trade show booth designers discuss a few of them below.

What is experiential marketing?

Experiential marketing, also known as ‘engagement marketing’, aims to create memorable experiences for consumers. It is intended to evoke authentic emotions by offering customers meaningful and unique moments with the brand. The ultimate goal of experiential marketing is to build brand loyalty, recognition and credibility.

Experiential marketing can be very effective for companies of all kinds. If implemented correctly, experiential marketing can help improve brand awareness, build consumer loyalty and generate product interest.

How to integrate experiential marketing into your brand strategy

Experiential marketing can be a very effective part of your marketing strategy. For it to really work you’ll need to know a lot about your target audience and how to function within a digital environment. Here are some tips for creating a successful experiential marketing strategy.

1. Identify your target audience

The first step to implementing an effective marketing strategy, whether it’s in the context of digital, content or event marketing, is to understand your target audience. This involves a thorough analysis of their demographics, buying behaviors and motivations. An in-depth knowledge of your target market allows you to segment your clients based on their specific tastes and interests.

Audience segmentation is crucial to reaching the right people with the right message. It maximizes the relevance of your marketing strategy and increases the impact of your efforts. This in turn leads to improved consumer satisfaction, increased brand loyalty and ultimately a higher return on investment. Deeply understanding your target audience and segmenting them accordingly are fundamental steps to a successful experiential marketing strategy.

2. Invest in design

To build lasting connections with your consumers, it’s important to present your brand in a consistent and engaging way across all sales channels, including physical and online stores, as well as mobile apps. User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design plays a crucial role in every interaction with consumers.

A quality design should convey your brand’s values and reflect its identity. This can be accomplished by consistent use of colors, fonts, images and designs, which will reinforce your brand recognition and strengthen the brand’s emotional connection with consumers. If you are attending or want to participate in trade shows, investing in a custom trade show booth is essential for presenting your business in a coherent and impactful manner.

3. Create a brand story

Establishing a strong, memorable presence for your brand with your target audience can be difficult. To connect and engage them, it’s important to inspire them. An increasingly popular way for companies to convey their values and build trust with consumers is through storytelling.

Storytelling is a crucial element of human communication that can easily evoke emotions and effectively convey messages. Don’t be afraid to share your story, as it can help you make a meaningful connection with your audience as part of a sustainable experiential marketing strategy.

4. Use visual media

The use of visual media can contribute significantly to an experiential marketing strategy.

Videos and other visuals can convey brand values and personality, stimulate your target audience’s interest and inspire engagement with your company. If your trade show visuals need a professional touch to meet today’s standards, the experts at totm exposition offer graphic design services tailored to your brand.

5. Leverage social media

Social media provide a place where consumers can connect with each other and interact with a brand, making social platforms a key element in the development of any effective engagement marketing strategy.

Experiential marketing can be made even more effective by harnessing technology to create immersive online experiences. These interactions can increase consumer engagement and even encourage buyers to become active brand ambassadors. Investing in technology to create superior digital experiences will bring your marketing strategy to life and take it one step further.

Experiential marketing: an effective solution

Consumer engagement with brands is a key element in strengthening connection and fostering loyalty. To make this happen, it is crucial to create memorable and rewarding encounters with consumers. Experiential marketing is one of the keys to success in achieving this goal.

Engagement marketing can take many forms, such as live events, demonstrations, workshops and games. It can be used for many different goals, including launching new products, improving brand awareness or building consumer loyalty.

What are the benefits of experiential marketing?

To generate a positive impact, experiential marketing must be creative, relevant and in line with a target audience’s expectations. The goal of a successful experiential strategy is to engage the consumer and influence their perception of the brand by creating an immersive and disruptive experience. This can take the form of an animation at a point of sale or at a strategically important meeting place with your target audience, such as a trade show.

Why use a trade show booth for experiential marketing?

Your trade show booth is an experiential marketing tool that allows you to showcase your company. Its overall conception (design, lighting and furniture) will help you stand out at a trade show and give visitors a unique experience.

Instead of saying who your company is, show it with your exhibition booth.

Inform and entertain

Trade show visitors are solicited more than ever before. Sometimes it’s hard to get their attention.

A sales pitch focused on the features and benefits of a product or service doesn’t always lead to a conversion.

A better way to convert visitors is to make them “experience” your product. For example, if you sell non-stick pans, rather than explaining to the visitor that nothing sticks to your product, give them a demonstration.

Hand them the pan and ask them, for example, to cook an egg in it. They will see first-hand how effective the product is. This simple, yet engaging demonstration, as opposed to a sales talk, will stick in their memory and stay there, even days or weeks after the event.

In addition, approximately 65% of consumers say that live demonstrations give them a better understanding of a product than any advertisement.

Immerse the visitor in your world

Experiential marketing also helps to immerse the visitor in your brand universe. If you sell luxury cruises to tropical destinations, don’t just show your prospect pictures of the destinations.

Make them experience the cruise right from your trade show booth. For example, set up an area that looks like the deck of a boat. Replicate a cruise cabin or give them a taste of the food that will be served.

Show, don’t tell, your business

Your corporate values are probably hidden somewhere on your website in the About section. You may also have an extensive Portfolio or Team section with a wealth of testimonials and highlights.

If your business is fun-oriented, hosting trade show contests can directly engage the visitor in your booth. And if your business is focused on relaxation, create a space where visitors can unwind as they walk through the trade show.

If your business is focused on entertainment, set up a photo booth and invite visitors to take pictures of themselves. You can even offer them a discount or a sample if they share it on social media with your hashtag.

You can also equip yourself with a VR headset to show your premises, your showroom or anything else to visitors.

Experiential marketing and trade show booths: a perfect combination

Experiential marketing helps a visitor become emotionally invested in your products or services. It creates memorable experiences that stay fresh in their mind.

Your custom booth, modular booth or portable booth can help you accomplish this type of exceptional visitor experience at a trade show.

If you were looking for another reason to attend a trade show, remember that a live event of that kind is a perfect opportunity for you to implement experiential marketing.

If you need help designing your trade show booth, get in touch with us. We will be happy to help you.

How much does it cost to participate in a trade show?

30 January 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

At your last meeting with the sales and marketing department, you decided to participate in a trade show. The whole team is delighted. But the question remains: how much will it cost?

Even if you have attended trade shows before, it is good idea to regularly re-evaluate the costs associated with participating in a trade show, especially those associated with reserving a booth, renting the booth, hiring the appropriate staff and doing the necessary promotion.

The cost of attending a trade show: an overview

Although it is difficult to estimate how much it will cost to attend a specific trade show, the costs are generally divided as follows:

35% for renting a space
30% to build a trade show display
20% for labour
15% for promotion at the trade show

Let’s take a closer look at how to calculate these costs.

1. Trade show booth costs

Cost of building your booth

The cost of a trade show booth, as you can probably imagine, will vary greatly depending on your needs. These factors can help you to estimate the cost more precisely:

Type of trade show booth, since the design of a custom booth or a portable booth is not the same
Size of the booth
Materials used to build the booth
Logistical services required for installation and delivery
Professional booth storage for before and after the trade show.

With so many factors to consider, it is difficult to give a general estimate of exactly how much a trade show booth will cost. Estimations must be done on a case-by-case basis.

The best thing to do is to get quotes from trade show booth designers and compare prices. Use that information as a basis for determining the total cost of your trade show attendance.

Cost of renting a space for your booth

Another cost to consider is the rental of the booth space. How much does it cost to rent a space? This depends on the show.

For an exact amount, contact the organizer directly or consult the show rules sheet, which generally specifies the terms of participation, layout and space rental prices.

2. Labour costs

If you want your trade show to be successful, you need to pick the right people for your team, especially your sales teams. However, there are significant costs associated with this, including compensation, travel and accommodation. It is important to take these costs into consideration when planning and budgeting for your event.

Obviously, the further away the show is from your office, the higher the costs will be! You should plan for at least $2,500 for transportation and up to $4,500 for accommodation. These personnel expenses typically represent between 15% and 20% of the total costs associated with the show.

3. Promotional costs

Promotion is incredibly important before and during a trade show. The more people talk about you, the better your chances of getting good results. You can use various promotional materials to help with this including printed visuals (flyers, point-of-sale advertising, business cards, posters, etc.) and audiovisual equipment (videos, lighting, screens, etc.).

You will also need furniture (tables, stools, chairs, etc.). These items should factor into your cost calculation. Some exhibition booth manufacturers offer furniture rental, so you may be able to rent some equipment instead of buying it.

4. Overhead costs

Don’t forget your overhead costs, such as your travel costs and the delivery of various materials, as well as the fees for your supporting team the trade show. Will you need the services of a barista, a caterer, a hostess, an animator, a maintenance team, etc.?

Again, contacting the organizer directly or consulting the show rules sheet will help you determine what you can expect to spend.

Let totm exhibition calculate the cost of your participation in a trade show

So how much does it cost to attend a trade show? The answer: it depends on your exhibit space and promotional needs. Additional fees related to the event can also add to the overall cost. You can easily find out more information about costs by getting in touch with the show organizers.

If you need help working out the cost of participating in a trade show, or for information on designing a booth, contact our team now. We will be happy to answer your questions!

Managing event logistics to prepare for a trade show

26 January 2023/in Uncategorized @en /by Brigitte Fortin

Managing logistics is one of the most important aspects of attending a trade show. It’s also one of the most challenging, especially for new companies attending a trade show or other trade event for the first time.

From comparing shipping rates to making sure you’re acting in compliance with event guidelines, the process of preparing for a trade show involves many steps.

In this article, the trade show display experts at totm tell you more about managing event logistics and how to successfully plan and attend your next trade show.

What are event logistics?

Event logistics include all the resources and skills needed to successfully plan and implement an event. Logistics needs will vary depending on the type of event – what is needed to run a successful sports event will not be the same as for a concert, for example.

Event logistics are tailored to the specific needs of each client and goal. A logistics professional will plan and optimize the production and transportation flows related to events. This can include the delivery of products for virtual events or the rapid shipment of bulky materials. Managing logistics correctly means that every aspect of attending an event will run smoothly and the event will be a success from start to finish.

Events that require logistics management

Managing event logistics is essential for planning a wide variety of events, each of which has its own unique needs. Some examples are:

Trade shows
Sports competitions
Private events
Concerts
Theatrical or musical performances

The logistics coordinator adapts to each event by making a unique plan to meet the specific needs of that event. Logistics requirements vary depending on the type of the event, its location, its budget and the number of participants, so it is important to tailor your logistics management to each individual event.

Tips for successfully managing event logistics

With the right approach, managing event logistics is not as difficult as it sounds. Below are some tips you can implement to make the logistics process easier and less stressful. They will help you enjoy the entire process of participating in any trade show.

Contact the event organizer for logistical details

Trade show organizers can provide specific instructions to exhibitors, ranging from where to store your modular booth to how to pack your equipment.

When choosing a trade show, it’s always a good idea to contact the organizers as early as possible to learn about the logistics of that specific event. The event organizer should be able to provide you with a guide explaining where to ship your booth and how to prepare it for the show.

In most cases, you will need to ship your booth several weeks in advance. The event organizer should provide you with complete shipping information, including the schedule for the warehouse where the booths and other event equipment are stored.

The earlier you get this information, the easier it will be to plan your logistics and make a practical checklist for a successful trade show.

Label your equipment

Prior to the event, your booth and equipment will likely be stored in a warehouse with hundreds of other booths shipped and labeled by other attendees.

By carefully labeling your equipment, you reduce the risk of losing or misplacing it. If you forget to label even the smallest item, it could go missing.

Before storing your display materials, label and number each item so that your assembly process is simple and straightforward. This will also make inventory easier and less stressful.

Don’t just label your exhibit booth and its materials. It’s also important to label your shipping containers with your company name and the show you’re attending.

Use a logistics broker

Managing the logistical aspect of an overseas trade show is a big challenge, but a manageable one. From insurance to vital documents, planning a trade show exhibit becomes more difficult when you have to cross a border.

For this reason, it is best to work with an experienced logistics broker if you are attending a trade show in another country or province.

A logistics broker will be able to keep you informed of essential paperwork to fill out before your event. They will also be able to take care of most of the logistical process for you, saving you considerable time and allowing you to focus on preparing for the event itself.

Why ask a professional to manage your event logistics?

There are several reasons why it can be beneficial to entrust the logistics of your event to a professional logistics broker: experience, resources, reliability and respect for deadlines. Let’s take a closer look!

Expertise and resources

Whatever the size of your event, you may not be prepared to handle the sometimes complex logistics of attending it. Why not let a logistics broker who is familiar with the process take care of managing the logistic constraints – from start to finish – for you? You can trust a professional to be rigorous, meticulous and careful to manage every detail.

By entrusting the logistics of your event to a specialized company, you can relax knowing that everything will be taken care of.

Respect for deadlines and quality transport

Outsourcing your event logistics gives you the advantage of being able to count on reliable and timely service. Event logistics professionals have experience managing tight schedules. You can be sure that everything will be handled efficiently and on time for your event.

Hiring a logistics professional also gives you access to quality transportation. No matter what needs to be transported or the destination, they will provide you with the right resources.

A service tailored to your needs

Working with a logistics professional allows you to benefit from personalized service. Whether you need to transport food for the event’s buffet or furniture for a display, the delivery drivers will handle it appropriately.

A complete and professional service guarantees that the goods will arrive safely and intact. The carriers are adapted to the specific needs of your event, and will ensure that all products arrive on time and in good condition.

Choose totm exposition to manage your event logistics

Managing event logistics can be an extremely difficult process, especially if you have no prior experience. Often it is best to leave the logistical aspect of the exhibition to the experts.

At totm exhibition we offer a wide range of services including transportation, logistics, and storage. With our help, you will be able to concentrate all your efforts on making your event a success.