We would know! The Greater Tacoma Convention Center was recognized as one of the best convention centers in North America by EXHIBITOR Magazine for the fifth year.
Smart exhibitors know that venue selection isn't just about floor space—it's about strategic positioning. When evaluating locations, consider accessibility for your target audience. The Pacific Northwest draws tech innovators, healthcare leaders, and manufacturing decision-makers who expect seamless logistics.
Start with clear, measurable objectives. Instead of vague goals like "increase brand awareness," aim for "generate 150 qualified leads from Pacific Northwest healthcare systems." This specificity helps you evaluate venue capabilities. Does the facility offer breakout rooms for private demos? Can they accommodate your 40-foot product display? These conversations with venue teams and event managers 12 months out prevent costly surprises later.
The early bird gets the premium booth locations. Island spaces near main entrances or food courts see 40% higher traffic than perimeter spots. The event planner for your conference or convention can offer insights about traffic patterns specific to their layout.
This is where venue expertise becomes invaluable. Experienced event teams understand how booth placement impacts success. They know that corner locations near restrooms might seem less desirable, but actually capture attendees during natural breaks. They've seen which spaces work best for different industries and can guide your decision.
Leverage local vendor networks early. For instance, the Greater Tacoma Convention Center has established relationships in the community and can connect you with trusted suppliers for everything from floral arrangements to hotels. This isn't just convenient—local vendors understand the facility's quirks, power requirements, and loading dock procedures. They can navigate union requirements and city permits with their eyes closed.
Design your booth with the venue's specific layout in mind. Ceiling heights, natural lighting, and adjacent exhibitors all influence your display strategy.
Now you're building momentum. Many exhibitors overlook amenities like high-speed WiFi, live streaming capabilities, or mobile charging stations that can enhance attendee experience.
Staff logistics become crucial. Consider proximity to quality hotels, restaurants, and entertainment for your team. Tacoma's reputation for coffee culture and culinary excellence isn't just marketing fluff—it's an asset. The growing brewery district and award-winning restaurants are a big draw. Happy, well-rested staff perform better, and venues that can recommend trusted accommodation partners make your job easier.
Pre-show marketing should highlight location benefits. Pacific Northwest attendees value sustainability, innovation, and authentic experiences. Effective pre-show marketing can increase booth traffic by 35% when it resonates with regional values. Let your audiences know where you’ll be in advance, and invite them to come stop by!
Use this time to schedule key attendee meetings. Our local tourism department can recommend restaurants for client dinners or suggest team-building activities that showcase Tacoma’s unique character.
The week of the show reveals the difference between venues that talk partnership and those that deliver it. The Greater Tacoma Convention Center gives you dedicated event support staff who remain accessible throughout your event. In case of day-of emergencies like forgotten booth components or needing additional power outlets, the convention center's responsive teams can save the day.
The Pacific Northwest audience appreciates authentic engagement over aggressive sales tactics. Focus on lead capture strategies that feel conversational rather than transactional. Regional attendees often conduct thorough research before events, so be prepared for informed questions and detailed technical discussions.
Post-show follow-up remains critical. Industry research shows that contacting leads within 48 hours increases conversion rates by 63%. Many exhibitors stumble here, exhausted from the event itself. Plan your follow-up strategy during the activation phase, not after you've returned home.
Measure success beyond immediate sales. Track metrics like meeting quality, regional market penetration, and partnership opportunities. These longer-term indicators often justify trade show investments better than quick conversions.
Great venues, like the Greater Tacoma Convention Center, that consistently host successful events, understand that exhibitor success drives their own reputation. We invest in relationships, infrastructure, and services that support your goals.
Smart trade show planning isn't just about logistics—it's about choosing partners who understand that your success is their success too.
