Franchise Expos and Trade Shows: 5 Tips to Maximize Your Experience

These five tips will help you make the most of your franchise expo and trade show experience.

8:08AM • 04/19/24

Attending franchise expos and trade shows has become an essential part of the journey for both franchisors and potential franchisees. These events provide a unique opportunity to connect, learn and explore various franchise opportunities, but you’ll need to do some groundwork first if you really want to leverage these events to their fullest potential. Use these five tips to ensure you make the most of your experience at your next franchise expo or trade show.

Do Your Research

Expos and trade shows are often very large affairs, so meticulous planning is essential. Determine which franchises will be there and make a list of those you'd like to connect with. There may be some brands represented that you have had your eye on for a while.

Once you have an idea of whom you’ll be speaking to, do some research on each brand online so you feel confident approaching them. Making appointments with preferred exhibitors or purchasing tickets to specific sessions beforehand, if possible, will allow you to maximize your time at the expo.

Take a Quick Tour of the Expo First

If you’ve done your research and planning well, this shouldn’t take very long. It’s a good idea to walk around the entire show before zeroing in on any one booth. The day will fly by, so you need to double check for any specific booths you want to visit and ensure you fit everything into your schedule. Once your mind is made up, do your best to stick to your plan. You don’t want to run out of time to discuss the opportunities that you’re most excited about because you got distracted.

Come With Questions in Mind

Put together a list of questions that you haven’t been able to answer through your research. This is not only a great way to show that you’re keen, but it also allows you to utilize the unique face-to-face experience to delve deeper into your understanding of a franchise and whether or not it suits you.

As a franchisee, you may be seeking to learn more about a franchise brand, but franchisors often use expos to learn more about potential franchisee candidates, too. In addition to your list of questions, come prepared with a list of your attributes, experiences and aspirations so you can provide the franchisor with a full understanding of what you’re looking for and what you bring to the table.

Take Advantage of Learning Opportunities and Expert Advice

Many expos and trade shows offer learning opportunities; take advantage of educational seminars and be open-minded to learning from the experts around you. Whether you have been in the franchise industry for decades or weeks, you’ll find most everyone has a unique experience; you can learn something from each journey that will help you make the most of your experience as a franchisee.

Build Relationships and Follow Up

The importance of networking in after-hours events cannot be overstated; every interaction you have, whether on the show floor or not, provides the potential for a valuable connection. Make your lunch and dinner plans in advance so you can utilize the time for networking. Last minute plans are unlikely to be successful, as the days get busy and schedules fill up.

Once the expo or trade show ends, it isn’t really over. In the days and months that follow, it’s important to keep those connections alive by following up on them. Building relationships takes time, and effective follow-up strategies can determine the long-term success of your franchise endeavors.

Make the Most of The Opportunity

Franchise expos and trade shows serve as invaluable platforms for networking, learning and exploring new opportunities. By combining these five tips from seasoned professionals, you can maximize your experience, ensuring that your investment of time and resources leads to fruitful connections and long-term success in the dynamic world of franchising.

Upcoming Expos and Trade Shows in 2024: