At Pacesetter, we’re proud to have a team of experts with deep industry knowledge and decades of experience in the promotional products world. As we approach the PPAI Expo 2025, we’ve gathered valuable advice and pro tips from Lee Feinstein and our seasoned team members to help suppliers get the most out of this monumental event. With years of firsthand experience exhibiting and attending the Expo, these insights are designed to ensure you navigate the show floor with purpose, make the most of networking opportunities, and leave with actionable knowledge to propel your business forward.
Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned veteran, these pro tips from Lee will guide you to success!
Day 1 – Dive In and Set the Tone
1. First Stop – The NEW PRODUCT Pavilion
The first thing I recommend on Day 1 is heading straight to the New Product Pavilion. This area is usually located just outside the show entrance and is your opportunity to get a firsthand look at the latest innovations in the promotional products space. It’s a great way to get your creative juices flowing as you explore new items, materials, and trends. Your customers are always asking, “What’s new?” and this is the perfect place to find the answers and educate yourself on fresh ideas that can be integrated into your client presentations.
2. Visit Your Top 10-20 Suppliers
Once you’ve sparked your creativity, it’s time to visit your go-to suppliers. These are the vendors you trust, and building relationships with them is key to your ongoing success. These booths can get crowded, so it’s smart to prioritize your visits to these core suppliers. While you’re there, be sure to check out their new product offerings—sometimes, these products aren’t in the New Product Pavilion, but they can be just as innovative and game-changing.
3. Keep Hydrated and Energized
The PPAI Expo is a massive event with a lot of walking, so it’s essential to stay hydrated throughout the day. I always recommend throwing a few protein bars into your bag as well—keeping your energy levels high is important when you’re covering miles of show floor.
4. Wear Comfortable Shoes
This might seem like a no-brainer, but trust me, your feet will thank you after a long day of walking. Comfortable, supportive shoes are a must if you want to stay energized and focused.
5. Stay Organized – Use Your Phone!
There’s so much to take in at the Expo, and it can be overwhelming. As you leave each booth, take a moment to document your visit. Whether it’s new products, special offers, or meeting a new representative, use your phone’s camera to capture key details. The last thing you want is to forget a great idea or product once you’ve moved on to the next stop.
6. Take Time for Lunch
Lunch isn’t just about refueling—it’s also an excellent opportunity to network and collaborate with other distributors. Sharing what you’ve seen, learned, and discovered over the morning is a great way to solidify relationships and exchange insights. Whether you’re dining with team members or other distributors, this time for collaboration can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.
7. Wind Down with a Dinner or Drink
To cap off Day 1, schedule a casual dinner or a drink with colleagues or other distributors. This is a great time to reflect on what you’ve seen, talk about what excites you, and prepare for the days ahead.
8. Get a Good Night’s Rest!
After your action-packed day, make sure to get a good night’s sleep. I know it’s tempting to keep the networking going well into the night, but you’ll want to be sharp for the rest of the show. Remember, this is a limited opportunity to learn, build relationships, and gain insights that can have a huge impact on your business.
Day 2 – Explore and Expand
1. Visit New Suppliers
On Day 2, consider venturing out to discover new suppliers. You never know what new products or companies might be a perfect fit for your business. Even one great discovery can kick off your year with a bang and give you a competitive edge.
2. Attend Distributor Parties and Events
The Expo isn’t all about business—there’s fun to be had too! Attend any parties or networking events open to distributors. Just make sure to pace yourself; after all, you still have plenty of work to do. A little fun goes a long way in helping to build rapport and relationships in the industry.
3. Schedule Post-Show Virtual Presentations
As the show progresses, suppliers’ schedules begin to fill up. Take the opportunity to schedule meetings or virtual presentations with key suppliers. This ensures you’ll have time post-show for more in-depth discussions that can help you and your team dive deeper into the products and services that interest you most.
Day 3 – The Calm After the Storm
1. Enjoy More In-Depth Booth Visits
By Day 3, the show floor tends to be quieter, and this is your chance to make the most of it. Without the hustle and bustle of the first two days, you can enjoy longer, more focused visits with suppliers. They’re often more available for in-depth discussions, which allows you to get a true sense of what they can offer and how it aligns with your needs.
2. Keep an Open Mind and Have Fun
By the third day, it’s easy to feel like you’ve seen it all, but this is exactly when you want to stay open-minded and keep looking for fresh ideas. The Expo is the launchpad for the upcoming promotional season, and keeping the energy high will set you up for a successful year.
Looking Ahead!
Attending the PPAI Expo is one of the best ways to stay ahead of the curve, connect with industry peers, and discover new products that will elevate your business. With over 40 years of exhibiting experience, we can tell you that the show isn’t just about what you see—it’s about the relationships you build and the knowledge you take home. Follow these tips, stay focused, and make this Expo your best yet!
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