Trade shows are unique opportunities for companies to meet prospects, strengthen their brand awareness, and connect with their target audience. But how can you capture visitors’ attention while effectively collecting their email addresses? As an exhibition design agency, we offer a list of ideas for activities that will attract visitors to your stand while maximizing your chances of collecting qualified data.Organize engaging contests
A brief, a phone call and the start of a beautiful collaboration
Raffle or prize draw
Invite visitors to participate in a raffle to win an attractive prize related to your industry. To participate, they will need to fill out an online form or one on site, providing their email address. Here are a few examples of prizes:
- A product or service offered by your company.
- A trendy tech gadget (headphones, smartwatch, etc.).
- A unique experience (classes, workshops, guided tours).
Make sure the entry process is quick and easy so as not to discourage visitors.
Interactive entertainment via a quiz or digital game
Fun and informative quiz
Create an interactive quiz on a tablet or touchscreen terminal related to your industry or products. Participants must enter their email address to receive their results or participate in a ranking.
Some ideas for quiz topics:
- “Test your knowledge of [your industry]!”
- “What type of [product/service] is right for you? “
- ”Are you an expert in [specific topic]?”
Custom video games
If your budget allows, develop a mini-game featuring your brand’s colors. For example, a puzzle or quick reflex game where visitors must achieve a goal. Their email address can be collected upon registration or to receive their final score.
Photo booth and GIF booth for a memorable experience
Set up a photo booth or GIF booth at your booth. Visitors love to leave with a visual souvenir, especially if they can share it on social media. To receive their photos or videos by email, they will need to enter their contact information via a dedicated platform.
Tips:
- Customize the frame or background of the photo with your logo and colors.
- Encourage participants to share their photos on social media with a hashtag dedicated to your company or event.
Live workshop or demonstration at your booth
Organize a hands-on workshop or live demonstration to showcase your products or services. These activities not only attract visitors’ attention, but also reinforce your credibility.
Examples:
- If you are in the cosmetics industry, offer a personalized makeup or skincare workshop.
- In the technology sector, organize a demonstration of the features of your latest product.
To participate, visitors must register in advance or on site by providing their email address.
QR code scanner for a digital treasure hunt
Offer an interactive treasure hunt by integrating QR codes scattered throughout the trade show or only on your booth. Visitors must scan these codes to access clues or exclusive content. They provide their email address to receive the necessary information or their reward.
This activity can be enhanced by offering rewards to those who successfully solve all the clues.
Relaxation areas with added value
Create a relaxation area on your booth to allow visitors to take a break. You can include services such as:
- A smoothie or coffee bar.
- Massage sessions (perfect for trade shows where visitors spend a lot of time on their feet).
- A charging station for electronic devices.
In exchange for this privileged access, invite visitors to register with their email address.
Virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR)
Using virtual or augmented reality is a great way to attract visitors to your booth while offering them an immersive experience. For example:
- Let them discover your products or services in a virtual environment.
- Organize an augmented reality game where they have to find hidden objects.
To participate, they will need to register by providing their email address, either before or after the experience, to receive additional content (such as a video or score).
Flash conferences or micro-conferences
Offer mini-conferences lasting 10 to 15 minutes on key topics in your field. These presentations should be informative and provide real added value to participants. To attend these conferences, ask visitors to register in advance online or on-site by sharing their email address.
Exclusive content and digital gifts
Offer visitors exclusive access to premium content in exchange for their email address. This could include:
- An e-book or white paper on a topic of interest.
- A tutorial video or presentation.
- A discount coupon for a future purchase.
The idea is to offer high-value content that motivates visitors to share their contact details.
Personalization of items or goodies
Set up a workshop for personalizing items at your booth. For example:
- Engraving names on pens, key rings, or water bottles.
- Printing personalized messages on T-shirts or tote bags.
Visitors must provide their email address to receive their order or confirmation.
Collaboration with influencers or well-known speakers
Invite an influencer or well-known personality in your industry to host a Q&A session or demonstration at your booth. Interested visitors will need to register to participate by sharing their email address.
Tips for optimizing email collection
- Highlight the added value: Clearly explain why visitors should give you their email address (to receive results, gifts, exclusive content).
- Simplify the process: Use fast digital tools such as tablets or QR codes to collect information.
- Comply with legislation: Ensure your forms comply with GDPR regulations by including a consent box.
- Send a follow-up email: After the trade show, use your new email addresses to send a thank-you message with a special offer or useful information.
By combining these ideas with a well-thought-out strategy, you will maximize your chances of collecting email addresses while leaving a memorable impression on visitors. The goal is to create a dynamic, interactive booth that meets the needs of your target audience while complying with data privacy rules.