Local distributors have identified trade shows as key to reaching their target market. Three representatives spoke to BARBADOS BUSINESS AUTHORITY last Thursday during the third Food & Beverage Expo, hosted by Brydens Distribution at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre.Graham Greenidge, marketing manager of Brydens Distribution, said such events brought products alive for the customer. “It gives us the opportunity to show the range of products we have but it also gives us the opportunity to allow the customer to try the product and hopefully during that process we encourage them to buy,” he said on the first day of thetwo-day expo.
Greenidge added: “Yes, you’re selling day-to-day, but it’s not easy to show everything you have in any one spot. This kind of forum allows you to put all your key products that you really want to push up for show.” Karen Haynes, marketing assistant of A&R Tempro, said they get to interact with current customers “on a different level” as well see potential customers. “Because of the competitiveness in our current market and due to the economic decline, all brands are facing a challenge at this point so that’s where marketing becomes even more critical,” she said.
Marketing manager of McEnearney Quality Inc., Margaret Hoyte said “Trade shows like these give you a chance to capture . . . friends or family who are moving in a group who would be able to discuss the options and features of their cars. “Sometimes you get families coming to these trade shows to look at the other products and they have an opportunity to be together at one place to look at a car.” Hoyte suggested that similar events be held annually since people tend to be more relaxed and can take their time to view products. (NB)
