Getting the Most out of Modex and other Material Handling Tradeshows
With the material handling tradeshow season right around the corner I started thinking about how attendees to these shows can maximize their investment. Even if there is no monetary cost to attend a show there is still an opportunity cost.
Your return can be maximized because of the singular opportunity to meet with a variety of companies and the chance of finding a great company to work with. This is especially true at the larger shows, for instance this year’s Modex 2012.
First, why do you go to tradeshows? Of course to see new products and services, but also to get a feel for a company and see how they operate. This is one of the few places that you can evaluate several potential partners side-by-side and see if a relationship might be profitable.
So how can you best evaluate a company and maximize your time at Modex?
Are they innovative? Do they have new concepts in picking systems or other solutions that can help you improve your process? Does it seem like they are taking strides forward and increasing their offering to the market? Or are they just trotting out the same old thing you have seen for the last 4 shows? Most people are looking for an innovative partner that shows continual improvement, as opposed to a company that is stagnant and focused on older technology
Do they fill a need? Is there a real need for what this company does in your supply chain? If there is a need how well do they present how they can fill it? Can they tell the story of their product? Are there case studies or do they have a compelling presentation on how their application can help your business? Even if the product is brand new they should have a compelling story why you should invest time finding out more about how it might be able to help you.
Do they seem like a good fit? How do you think this company will work with yours? Do they seem actively interested in helping you or can they not be bothered? Does their company culture seem to fit with yours?
The 3 above reasons are a quick way to judge a company on the show floor, but you can also do a few things before the show to maximize your return.
Keep an open mind. There are a lot of interesting companies on the tradeshow floor. Take a moment to research a few companies that you may not have on your radar and see what they have to say.
Do your research. Write down a list of potential companies that you want to talk to. Also see if you can make an appointment beforehand so you can use your time more efficiently.
Hope this helps you find the perfect material handling partner at the upcoming tradeshows.
If you are planning on coming to Modex in Atlanta please stop by Schaefer’s booth
4709 and see our Fulfillment Factory concept and system for yourself.
Schaefer Systems International, Inc., the North American subsidiary of the SSI SCHAEFER group of companies, established headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1989.
SCHAEFER’s automation integrates to any existing system earning us an international reputation as the global leader in the material-handling industry for returnable packaging, static racking, and highly complex, automated distribution systems. With over 70 years of experience and a 100% commitment to quality behind every SSI Schafer system, we focus on providing our clients with unconventional picking and storage solutions delivering best value