Six Tips for Getting the Most Out of an Equipment Show

Did you know that labor often accounts for 60–65 percent of an organization’s cleaning costs? Investing in efficient, high quality cleaning equipment can be a substantial cost saver in the long run.

As many of you already know, Nichols is hosting a number of equipment shows for our customers during 2018. We hope you will consider joining us at one of our shows in your area! If you’re somewhat unfamiliar with the brands and types of cleaning equipment available, you may experience some confusion about what to look for at an equipment expo. Here are six tips for getting the most out of a cleaning equipment trade show.

Have a clear plan

Before you arrive at the expo, try to have an accurate understanding of your organization’s most pressing needs. Are you trying to clean and maintain a stone floor, restore some old carpet, or shine up the VCT flooring in your lobby? Do you need something to reduce allergens and improve your indoor air quality? Once you have your needs in mind, make sure to seek out the machines that will help solve your problems.

Prepare your questions

Another helpful tip is to prepare a list of questions to ask the vendors when you visit the show. Are there any particular machines you would like to see demoed? Try to be as familiar as possible beforehand with the types of machines and other products that will be exhibited at the show and have your questions ready at the proper time.

Network with vendors and attendees

At an equipment show, there is usually quite a bit of free time to network with vendors and other attendees. This may happen during lunch or as you mingle throughout the booths. Keep a stack of your own business cards handy to pass out. Chances are that you’ll meet many other attendees in a similar position as your own. Trading knowledge and tips with others could go a long way in making your own organization more successful. At our Nichols equipment trade shows, you will be able to network with vendors such as Tornado, IPC Eagle, Pacific Floorcare, ProTeam, Kaivac, Clarke, and more.

Take advantage of cleaning courses

Equipment shows often offer special cleaning courses for attendees. Nichols is offering ISSA CMI-certified hard floor care and carpet care courses at our Tornado Rodeo in Indianapolis. In these courses you will receive (1) instruction in proper floor care cleaning techniques, (2) information about the latest in carpet and hard floor care cleaning innovations, and (3) hands-on training in floor care. We are also providing additional training events during 2018, including courses in restroom cleaning, long-term care, technology in facility management, and more. Click here to see a list of all of our customer training events in 2018.

Have an open mind

As we mentioned before, it’s great to have a plan of attack before you attend a trade show. However, remember to always keep an open mind and be curious about new technologies and innovations that may provide even better solutions to your biggest problems. Equipment expos are an excellent place to sharpen your cleaning knowledge and receive inspiration for new ways that will improve your processes and procedures and ultimately your bottom line.

Enjoy yourself

Lastly, be sure to relax and enjoy the day. Trade shows are centered on the customer experience — so take advantage of things like door prizes, a free lunch or snacks, or industry-themed games. Have fun and enjoy yourself. We are offering raffle prizes at our Indianapolis Tornado Rodeo, including an Apple Watch, Amazon Echo Spots, $100 gift cards, and more. Register by 4/20/18 to be eligible for the prize drawings!

We hope to see you at one of our equipment shows in 2018!

Upcoming Nichols Equipment Shows – Click the link to Register Today!

Tornado Rodeo Expo & ISSA CMI Courses – Indianapolis, IN
May 1 @ 9:00am – 3:00pm

Mutt & Jeff Equipment Expo – Decatur, IL
May 2 @ 9:00am – 2:00pm

Janitorial and Packaging Equipment… and MORE at the

Nichols Corporate Headquarters Open House 

May 8 @ 10:00 a.m. – 2:00pm