Question for exhibitors at GenCon or Origins

[Dirt]

I've been considering exhibiting at either GenCon or Origins. For all of those who have previously exhibited at either of those conventions - did the expense (hotel, exhibit hall floor space, etc) warrant exhibiting there? I've frequently wondered this, since I've noticed some exhibitors just selling dice bags or dice.

Any input would be greatly appreciated. Feel free to email me directly. Thanks!

 

[MEG Hal]

I've been considering exhibiting at either GenCon or Origins. For all of those who have previously exhibited at either of those conventions - did the expense (hotel, exhibit hall floor space, etc) warrant exhibiting there? I've frequently wondered this, since I've noticed some exhibitors just selling dice bags or dice.

Any input would be greatly appreciated. Feel free to email me directly. Thanks!

Since you live in OH, I would say Origins would be a good deal. You must consider the fact that even if you lose money (cross fingers) that it is marketing, so people and retail stores who never new you may now be introduced to your product. To throw you another option GTS in March in Vegas where we meet retailers is also an important show. MEG will be at all 3 of these at the least, as we feel all three are important to have a strong presence at.

We always look for other cons and local shows as well, but we feel a company that is growing as fast as us must have a solid showing at these 3 shows.

 

[Mystic Eye]

I will add that you need to consider what is valuable to you and your company. Since you are close to Origins the expenses will be significantly lower but you will not sell all that much. It is clearly a marketing venue. Gen Con is a Con where you will sell 5X or more than what you sold at Origins but it is also more expensive overall. We always look to these cons as primarily a marketing tool and not a place to make tons of cash. We have high hopes for Gen Con next year as we did really well this year but I still see it as more for marketing.

The other one you should not miss, that is entirely a marketing con, is Gama! Many distributors and retailers there.

 

[Dirt]

Thanks for the replies (both on the forum, and off)! I appreciated hearing opinions from those who exhibited before. Thanks!

 

[SkeletonKey Ed]

Next year GenCon will be in Indianapolis, which is just about as far from Cincinnati as Columbus (I grew up in Tipp City, OH. Right in the middle of those three cities). As far a recovering your expenses, I would go with GenCon. You will sell much more there.

Cheers - Ed