ProMat 2023: 5 Essential Steps for a Successful Trade Show Experience
ProMat is North America’s largest expo for the material handling and logistics industry. This year's event, scheduled for March 20-23, 2023, is an excellent opportunity to network, learn about the latest products and trends, find suppliers, and make meaningful connections that can help build your career and company.
With more than 1,000 providers and 150+ education sessions, it is impossible to see everything. That is why attending ProMat requires preparation to make the most of the event. In this blog post, we will discuss how to prepare for ProMat 2023, including optimizing travel and maximizing networking opportunities while at the show.
Let's get started!
1. BOOK A HOTEL EARLY
Choosing the right hotel is key to having a successful ProMat 2023 experience. However, the closer to the event you book, the more you pay, and the farther you have to travel to get to ProMat. If you are able, book early. Look for hotels that are close to ProMat's venue (the Chicago McCormick Place) or have shuttle services. Consider amenities such as free breakfast and Wi-Fi, as well as on-site restaurants and bars. These can be great places to unwind after a long day at ProMat. If your company has no travel reservation system, check out ProMat's hotel-booking webpage. Below the hotel list, you can sort by name, price, stars, or proximity (starting with the closest available hotel). And, for a different experience (and possibly a closer location), consider checking out Airbnb.
2. MAKE A PLAN
When you attend ProMat, make sure that the educational sessions and booths you are visiting will benefit your business, your customers, or your understanding of the industry and trends. Ask yourself your goals for the year and how these sessions or products will help you reach those objectives. Create a list of priorities of what you would like to learn and see during the event, and make sure you stick to the list. Don't waste your time on things that won't be helpful.
Speaking of making the most of your time…
3. DOWNLOAD THE PROMAT 2023 APP
The ProMat 2023 app (Android and iOS) lets you quickly view exhibitor information, education session schedules, and speaker information – along with a handy map of the show floor. The app makes it easier to navigate the show and prioritize the most valuable booths and sessions first. If you have extra time, you can always add in additional sessions or booths that were not on your list. Planning ahead here ensures you get the most out of the experience and maximize your time at the event.
4. MEET INTERESTING PEOPLE AND NETWORK
ProMat 2023 is the perfect place to expand your professional network. So attend as many networking events as possible, such as receptions, lunches, and meetups. Make a list of the booths and presentations you want to see. Plan them out on the map to avoid back-tracking and save your time and feet. Invite business partners and people you want to work with to grab coffee or share a meal. You can also use social media to connect with fellow attendees before, during, and after ProMat – just use the hashtag #ProMat2023.
5. CREATE A PACKING LIST
Whatever your plans for ProMat, you still have to get there. If you don’t already use a packing list for travel, you’ll love this tip. We often take the same items with us for business trips. By writing down the essentials you need to bring, you’ll be sure you have everything you need every time you travel. That saves time, reduces headaches and stress, and makes business travel more fun.
