The Melbourne Gift Fairs (Reed and Home & Giving) start today and Life In Style started 2 days ago. Here is some of the advice provided by newsagency marketing group newsXpress to members in advance of the fairs:
- Know your data. Look at your reports and be certain of what is working and what is now. Have sales data for each supplier you plan to visit. Have your card category data as this guides gift categories you can sell.
- Know your finances. Know how much you can spend and when through the next six months.
- Know your timing. There are space, cash flow and other factors to consider when agreeing dates on when to deliver.
- Know your competitors. Know your competitors before you go. Look for changes in their ranges. Spot strengths and weaknesses.
- Buy strategically. Think about suppliers who place product anywhere compared to suppliers who make sure retailers with their ranges are not too close to each other.
- You are not your customer. Buy for your customers and not for yourself.