Two women events industry veterans have developed a program for exhibitors that can’t travel due to restrictions to continue to sell (or break into) targeted markets at trade shows all over the world.
Diane Bjorklund and Stephanie Selesnick launched the International Exhibitor Representation Program (IERP) in October. Bjorklund is president of Eventful Management Group and Selesnick is president of International Trade Information Inc.
Depending on the show, the program functions as a remote booth or pavilion, using its network of in-country exhibition professionals to fill in for exhibitor teams unable to be on-site. This provides superior set up and staffing to hiring temporary models or students to try and sell exhibitors’ products, equipment or services, according to IERP.
The program offers everything from simple staffing for show days to turn-key packages that include pre-promotion, booth construction and appointment setting, at a variety of price points. The investment isn’t that different than the cost of purchasing and furnishing a booth, air travel, ground transportation, hotel and per diems.
Non-U.S. companies that want to exhibit in shows overseas can also take advantage of the program. So far, it has received a lot of interest and enthusiasm.
