March 7th, 2011
That cold snap that came through the last couple of nights really did a number on your pipes. You got up to take a shower this morning an you immediately noticed the change in water pressure. As that sick feeling began to take over, you slowly made the march towards the basement already aware of what you would find waiting for you at the bottom of those dark stairs….moments later phone in hand you do what must be done and that’s call a plumber for help with the 5 inches of water that is quickly rising.
All that running a around trying to get the plumbing fixed left you exposed to the elements which in turn made you a prime target for the flu. Within days you’re running a fever of a 105, can’t hold anything down, and can’t afford to use any more sick days. As much as you hate it, the only choice is to call the family doctor and get back on the path to good health.
Meanwhile the water that was filling the basement went from 5 inches to 10 by the time the plumber finally made it. The result left a crack in your foundation which won’t easily be fixed. A call to your home insurance agent gets a time setup to meet and a promise that it’s not as bad as you think. As he hangs up the phone the agent promises you that things will be back to normal in no time and the claim should go smoothly.
Just like in the scenarios above, at some point a problem gets so out of hand that we all must seek help from the professionals. For small business owners trying desperately to see the light at the end of that long economic tunnel, The Godfrey Group is here to help when you need us the most. From our expert design team who go out to their way to ensure your satisfaction to our display rental program which makes it easier than ever to try new ideas to our extensive library of designs with tons of concepts to choose from, we understand how tough the market is these days and we’re here to help. Whether it be an outdoor tent covered in your own personal logo, an information display with tons of room for pamphlets and brochures, or an easy to transport simple to install popup display; regardless of what your needs are if you are having trouble creating sales than it’s time to call the professionals and let Godfrey save the day!
Tags: Custom displays, Custom graphics, Display Booths, Event Planners, expert advice, fabric structures, inflatables, information display, kiosk, kiosk displays, kiosks, marketing tips, outdoor displays, popup displays, portable trade show display, potential customer, potential customers, Trade Show, Trade Show Booths, trade shows, unique trade show display
Posted in Custom displays, Custom graphics, marketing tips | No Comments »
March 4th, 2011
I’m not a huge fan of reality shows, but I must admit finding myself addicted to such cooking competitions as Top Chief, Chopped, and Iron Chief. There’s something about making the perfect meal that keeps me striving with every dinner to do better than the last. For the most part my love of cooking isn’t about the taste (though it’s no secret that all chiefs love to eat) but instead at least for me it’s all about the flavors. There’s something about the way basic ingredients have a way of coming together to create a unique dish. A dash of salt, a touch of thyme, pinch of dill….added at just the right time without forcing it; as the ingredients begin to come together they form something greater than the sum of their parts.
If you think about it a successful tradeshow is a lot like a one of a kind meal. Just as a cook must begin by pulling together the basics of the recipe such as garlic, flour, chicken; so too does an event planner as they prepare for what types of materials to take, the size and shape of the display they will need, what type of approach to take that will ensure they get people’s attention. A successful trade show isn’t put together overnight no more than a seven course meal is done within minutes. What designs will get you the most attention? Should you go with the custom designed fabric structure or will a kiosk suit your needs more?
If you are getting ready to hit the trade show circuit, maybe you’ve been asking yourself lately as to what ingredients you will need to get the job done? Thankfully Godfrey is here to help and we’ve got just what you need to cook up a successful tradeshow. With tons of designs to choose from and a design team eager to help, it’s time you took the next step in the process and let us help make your next event a success.
Tags: custom designs, Custom displays, Custom graphics, custom kiosks, customer service, Event Planners, Exhibitors, Exhibits, fabric structures, kiosk design, marketing tips, portable trade show display, potential customer, potential customers, Trade Show Booths, Trade Show Displays, trade show kiosk, trade show success, trade shows, unique trade show display, workstations
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
March 2nd, 2011
From clown faced mascots running all over the parking lot, to the promise of free food for everyone that walks by, to the hiring attractive waitresses to serve food, stores will go to any and every extreme to sell their products. Flashing strobe lights, the days hottest music playing full blast, deals that simply can’t be past up, just when you think you’ve seen it all along comes a new idea that takes everything to the next level……that’s where the focus of today’s post comes in with the introduction of London’s Browns Focus clothing store.
If you think you can just walk past this store without being pulled inside to check it out, think again. Literally designed to capture the attention of the consumer, Browns recently began an experiment in hypnosis in hopes of literally creating customers that just can’t help themselves when it comes to pulling out their wallet. Created by sensual Artists Sam Bompass and Harry Parr, the first thing consumers are confronted with is a window display specifically designed to get people walking in the door through the use of swirling lines otherwise known as vertigo therapy. Once in the visitors will find their senses assaulted with music featuring subliminal messages instructing them to give themselves permission to shop, smells infused into the clothing that are said to relax the individual and encourage them to browse, and displays are that are designed to make customer feel better in general.
If you are looking for a way to catch the attention of consumers without going to such extremes, Godfrey has just what you need with their line of digital carpets. Imagine a design of your own creation brought to life in full color and digitally imprinted on a custom designed carpet of your very own. It could be your company logo, a picture of your own design, or a simple combination of colors and shapes; regardless of what you choose a digital carpet will definitely get the attention of all those see it. Plus an optional subline mat is also available for a bit of extra cushion between those toes.
If you are looking for a creative way to inspire sales and create a positive vibe in your showroom or trade show exhibit, get with your personal project manager today and ask about how you too can win people over with a digital carpet.
Tags: Custom displays, custom flooring, Custom graphics, digital carpets, marketing tips, showroom design
Posted in Promotional Ideas | No Comments »
February 28th, 2011
The day after what was another history making Oscar night featuring Hollywood’s best and regardless of whether you were pulling for The Social Network or The King’s Speech, what really mattered is who stole the show on the red carpet. While who won in each category is definitely something that will be remembered for years to come, at least for the short term it’s the fashion and glamour of the annual event that is receiving the most attention. There is just something undeniable about viewing the night of a thousand stars as they step out of their sleek black limousines, on to that long red carpet, and into that fever pitch cloud of eager photographers and screaming fans.
The red carpet treatment has been around for centuries and to this day has a way of making those that find themselves receiving the honor of having one rolled out for them feeling as if they were pure blooded royalty themselves. Honor, importance, power, respect, fame, and fortune all go hand in hand with a red carpet; feelings that should not just be set aside for those in tinsel town. In terms of small business owners who are always on the lookout for ways of showing their customers just how much they are are appreciated and honored, a red carpet is the perfect addition to any showroom or trade show exhibit.
At Godfrey we understand how important your customers are too you and that’s why we think everyone should receive the red carpet treatment. Available in several sizes sure to fit any trade show exhibit or showroom, we also offer a softside tote bag that will allow for easy transport but can also be shipped via UPS or FedEx!
If you’ve been looking for a way to show your customers how much you appreciate them, then what better way than to make them feel like royalty by rolling out the red carpet and letting them know just how special they are!
Tags: booth, booths, Custom displays, Custom graphics, customers, Display Booths, Event Planners, marketing tips, oscar night, red carpet treatment
Posted in Custom displays, Custom graphics, marketing tips | No Comments »
February 25th, 2011
When discussing those affected by the most recent downturn in the economy, mall department stores have surely been among the hardest hit. So called anchor stores such as JcPenny, Dillards, Sears, and Belk are just a few of the big name retailers that before the downturn could be found in most malls all across America, yet now have left huge gaps in retail space as they were forced to make some unfortunate decisions regarding the number of stores they could maintain. Thankfully it appears that there very well may be some light at the end of the tunnel as one recent report suggests that shoppers are slowly but surely making their way back to the malls and bringing with them a much needed influx of cash. According to Fortune, anchor stores reached a milestone of sorts in 2010 by increasing their market share for the first time since the 80′s. President of Customer Growth Partners Craig Johnson explained that although the growth was small it was having a huge impact on the industry saying “Even though it was only a tenth of a share point, for department stores, that is a huge change. This is a real turn in the market. We’re optimistic that the momentum is just gathering.”
This recent upward tick doesn’t just represent a significant event for big name stores such as Macy’s and Nordstrom’s, consider that for every anchor store located in a mall there are typically 10-20 smaller business who have been experiencing the same economic issues but with much more dire consequences due to the lack of a larger corporation to help them stay afloat. If you are one of those mom and pop style small business owners who have somehow managed to make ends meet until the shoppers return, then now more than ever you need to make sure that when they walk through your doors they are hit with some of the most amazing designs they have ever seen.
From full scale portable showcases, to custom designed fixtures, to enticing window displays, Godfrey is here to help you answer the call off all those consumers who are finally making their way back to those very same malls that once cherished so dear. Don’t wait for those stores around you to do it first, get a jump on the competition and be ready to see you sales rise thanks to a little bit of redesigning from Godfrey.
Tags: anchor stores, booths, Custom displays, Custom graphics, Display Booths, Exhibits, kiosk displays, marketing tips, showcases, showroom designs, showroom fixtures, window banners, window desgins
Posted in Custom displays, Custom graphics, marketing tips, Promotional Ideas | No Comments »
February 23rd, 2011
It’s been a horrible day. The 4 yr-old threw up all over you just as you were about to walk out the door. You were late to the office because you had to change clothes. The boss saw you sneak in and gave you grief. Bad luck seemed to be just over your shoulder all day as if you had a personal thunder cloud. On the way home, going over the day’s events, a sudden movement on the side of the road catches your eye. At first it’s lost among the billboards, traffic, and flashing neon signs, then you quickly lock in on it again. To others it may be nothing more than a sign for a cold beverage, but you it’s more a like a beacon from a guardian angel.
This may seem like a bit of an exaggeration, however in this case the truth isn’t too far from fiction when talking about the power of a flying banner. Anchored to a swiveled base that works similarly to a wind vane, a fly banner literally acts like a waving hand sending well wishes to all those that pass by. Think about all the traffic that passes in front of your store at any given time from sunrise to sunrise. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to personally give each person that passes by a wave that signifies how nice it is just to have them drive by? Something that says I understand you may not be able to stop right now, but maybe next time you are out this way you will get a moment to come in to see what we have to offer. A flying banner is exactly that; a friendly wave offering an opportunity to all those that go by.
Featuring tons of graphic impact completely customized to fit your company’s name and logo, plenty of room to get any message across, and the ability to literally wave with the slightest of breeze; a flying banner sign is more than just another banner it’s that friendly hello you’ve always wished you could give consumers driving by your store everyday.
Tags: Custom graphics, flying banners, marketing tips, outdoor displays, Promotional Ideas, small business ideas
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
February 21st, 2011
What is it about this time of year that inspires us to want to begin a new? To strip down all that old wall paper, throw out that couch that is long past its prime, and inject some color back into our lives. There’s something about late winter and early spring that makes us want to get past all the garbage in life and get back to basics. Spring cleaning fever is a very real thing that affects us all in different ways. For some it may mean giving that house a scrubbing the likes of which it has never seen before. For others it may mean getting those weeds out of the garden, tilling up the soil, and planting the seeds for this year’s harvest. It could mean the end of a relationship that has simply run its course. In business terms though getting back to basics is more than an infuse of color or a change in your presentation. To the business minded getting back to basics means getting rid of the hype and getting back to what made them successful to begin with.
This isn’t to say that a trade show display with tons of flashing lights, video motors at every turn of the head, and custom logos is a bad thing (standing out is never a bad thing), but there’s definitely something to be said for a simple fold out table covered in a professionally designed table skirt featuring your company’s name and logo, and a table top display that gets to the facts of who you are. When looking to purchase a new product more than anything else today’s consumers want honesty. They want to be able to trust that what you are presenting them will do what is promised, will last as long as it should, and won’t leave them feeling as if they wasted their money the moment they exchange their hard earned money. While large scale displays and exhibits are sure to impress and are sure to be crowd pleasers, stripping away all the layers of hype and simply giving consumers an honest representation of who you are can also be an extremely satisfying approach to marketing your product.
If you feel that your approach to trade show marketing has gotten stale and are looking for a fresh new approach, maybe instead of more the answer is less. A custom designed table top display with table skirt combined with an honest heartfelt presentation could be the very thing that sends your sales skyrocketing!
Tags: Custom displays, Custom graphics, marketing tips, table skirts, table top displays
Posted in Custom displays, Custom graphics, Custom table throws and runners | No Comments »
February 19th, 2011
Wednesday we talked about how the world is changing in terms of what is required to convince consumers that your product is worth spending their hard earned cash on. Gone are the days when a smile and a good slogan would earn the trust over millions of eager customers. Today’s consumers have done their research long before ever shaking your hand for the first time and if not then thanks to the invention of the smart phone all they need is a few minutes on the web to know all there is about your offer. Product demonstrations are definitely the way to go in terms of winning people over simply because they allow consumers to touch, taste, and feel what an item is all about. Demos take a product and put into the lives of those that will be using it and help them learn how it will make things easier for them on a day to day basis. While a good demonstration combined with a custom designed display will get you far, if presented by an individual that has a less than friendly personality or that chooses some very unbecoming tactics; all the demonstrating in the world is going to get you nowhere.
Sales Pitch Do’s and Don’ts
*Don’t be a shark- They see you long before you even know they are around. The moment a prospect steps foot into their turf, their instincts kick in as they begin to circle. By the time you realize they are there it’s already too late. Nobody wants to be the victim of a shark attack by an over eager salesperson. If you are the salesperson it’s okay to approach a potential customer, but be aware of their body cues and if they are giving off that don’t bother me look; don’t be afraid to back off. Let them know where they can find you should they have any questions and make sure you are available when they do.
*Don’t go for the throat- For every salesperson giving a demonstration at some point there comes a moment when it’s time to close the deal. With any close there is always the risk of coming on strong. Of course the worry is that not coming on strong enough will lose you just as many sales as well. That’s why it’s important to find the best mix of pushy yet subtle. Don’t be afraid to ask the customer if they are interested in purchasing today or what you can do to get them interested in buying
*Do know when to cut and run- Sometimes no matter how good your pitch is or how much the customer seems willing to purchase, the sale just isn’t going to happen. The fact is that there are some consumers that simply won’t buy right away. The result is hours wasted talking to somebody who very well may purchase your product weeks or months from now(if you’re lucky), but in the immediate future actually costs you sales which could be made to people who are there to purchase your product right away.
Tags: Custom displays, demonstration booths, demonstration ideas, demonstrations, demos, increased sales, marketing tips, sales pitch
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
February 16th, 2011
We live in a society in which consumers are now learning what generations before us knew long ago; before you spend that hard earned buck some thought into what it will be buying is essential. For a couple decades there (mainly the 80′s and 90′s) quality seemed to take a back seat to how much cool factor an item brought with it. Now days before just handing over our check card and pressing that green enter button, consumers must be targeted using an entirely new set of rules. They want to touch, taste, feel, and find out what their friends think about a product and even then it’s a guessing game as to whether or not they will buy it. A custom designed sampling kiosk will definitely get you some attention, but all the multi-colored logos and flashy graphics in the world won’t earn you a dime if you’re not able to demonstrate your product successfully.
Tips on giving a good demonstration
*Be clear- Call it nerves, call it butterflies, for some it’s just the way they talk, but regardless anytime you are addressing a large group of people mumbling isn’t going to get you anywhere except standing by yourself. Watch all those um’s and ah’s and keep eye contact with the crowd.
*Invite Participation- Again nobody likes to stand on the sidelines and watch when they can get into the game themselves. When possible get a few volunteers to help you demonstrate how your product works. Not only will you win over a couple of customers directly, the rest of the onlookers will be able to see just how easy the item is to use. Plus it will help cement the thought that what you are offering is the next must have purchase they won’t be able to live without.
*Stick to the message- One of the easiest things to do during any conversation or demonstration is to get off track and lose focus from your original message. It may start as a simple question from someone in the audience or a quick thought that popped in your head and the next thing you know several minutes have passed without mentioning the reason why you there to start with. Don’t lose potential customer who don’t care about the weather or where you ate last night, stick with the message and get to the point.
*Don’t over sell- Demos are a great way to draw people in. Not only do they give them a feel for what your product is but also how it will change their lives. That being said though nobody wants to be beat up on by some overeager salesman who whether it’s true or not, comes across as more interested in scoring a dollar than earning a loyal customer. Learn to get your message across and close the deal, without badgering the customer for decision. Some people want to take their time and the more you press the less they will want to spend, no matter if they want your product or not.
Tags: Custom graphics, demonstration ideas, demonstrations, demos, marketing tips, sample kiosks, sample pedistals
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
February 14th, 2011
Just as quickly as we posted last Friday about that stubborn Old Man Winter and how hard areas of the country were being hit this year by one winter storm after the next, Mother Nature heard our cries and delivered to the South one of the prettiest warmest weeks we’ve had in a very long time. We know this warming trend won’t last and that more than likely the last snowflake has yet to hit the ground, but at least a little bit of the claustrophobia that so many of us have been dealing with as we sit and watch foot after foot of the white stuff pile up in front of our windows has subsided. Still though that itch is there for warmer temps. For days spent on the back porch grilling steaks, tossing the football, and listening to tunes. Adventure is calling as families begin the ever important debate on where should they go this Spring and Summer.
For those vendors who make the majority of their money traveling from one outdoor festival to the next serving everything from deep fried Oreos to homemade freshly squeeze lemonade, the time to plan for the coming warm weather has also arrived. Outdoor kiosks need are unique in that they need to be sturdy enough to survive high winds, triple digit temps, and provide enough room to maneuver around in as you try to serve 50 salivating people all at the same time. Oh and it wouldn’t hurt if they remembered who you were once they got their steak on a stick and headed towards the main event.
The Dome Kiosk is everything an outdoor vendor needs and more. Its unique shape not only stands out in peoples mind but also provides you with tons of counter space, plenty of room for storage, enough shade to keep you cool, and the perfect amount of room to include all your custom logos and graphics. Available in two shapes round or octagonal and two sizes 6.5′ and the 9′ dome, printing options include:
*Top Canopy Printed Full Color
*Counter Wrap Printed Full Color
*Solid Color Pennant & Pole
*Pennant Imprint
Simple put the Dome is one of the best outdoor kiosks on the market today and is the perfect fit for any vendor who is looking to get noticed at that next fair, carnival, or outdoor market. Contact one of our personal project managers today!
Tags: Custom graphics, custom logos, dome kiosks, outdoor displays, outdoor events, outdoor kiosks
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »