Firms across the North East are being offered the chance to brush up on their exhibiting skills at one of a series of Exhibition Masterclasses.

The free events have been organised by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) in a bid to help companies gain more business through trade shows and exhibitions.

Consultant John MacLean will deliver the seminar as he calls upon his extensive experience from a career that began in the joinery industry in Lancashire in the 1970s, when he was part of the team that pioneered the first flat-packed kitchen units, to running his own wholesale and retail business specialising in clothing and sports equipment.

During the 1990s, John spent much of his time promoting and marketing Scottish smoked salmon around the world and has now used his experience from exhibiting at or buying from trade shows, both at home and abroad, to develop “The Exhibition Masterclass” seminar.

John said:

“It can open up a host of opportunities, but an exhibitor must be well prepared and know how to generate and capitalise on the time allowed and the leads created.”

During the Exhibition Masterclass delegates will look at how to identify the right shows to attend and what to consider when planning and preparing for an exhibition; what to consider when it comes to stand design, what to display, handouts and sales aids; operation at the show as well as follow up work after the show.

The first event will be held on 17 July at the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) offices in Aykley Heads.

Three more will follow on 18 September at the NECC offices and on 4 December and 19 March 2014 at RTC North, Wessington Way Sunderland. All events will run from 9.30am until 3pm.

Sonya Roe, Business Development Executive for UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), said:

“Exhibitions and trade shows can offer a valuable platform for companies to showcase their products and services to a wide range of potential clients from around the world.

“However, you need to ensure that you target the right events first. Preparation is also vital to ensure you create the right impression and are able to maximise the outcomes from all the time and effort that is involved.

“We’re delighted to be working with John MacLean again to host the masterclasses and look forward to welcoming companies keen to find out how this can help their business grow as part of a planned export strategy.

“Interest in the masterclasses has been phenomenal, with the first two already oversubscribed. Obviously companies in the North East have recognised the need to prepare themselves fully for what can be an expensive activity in terms of time away from the office and money.”

For more information about the Exhibition Masterclasses or to book your place, contact Sonya via the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 05 05 054 or email: [email protected]

Contacts

For more information about the wide range of support services available through UK Trade & Investment to help your company succeed overseas call the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 05 05 054 or email: [email protected]. You can also follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/UKTINorthEast.