Walt Denny Inc. Blog

2011 K/BIS Roundup from Walt Denny Inc., The Home Products Agency (TM)

2011’s Kitchen and Bath Show ended in late April, but not before many savvy manufacturers showcased the latest product innovations, trends and technologies.  K/BIS was buzzing with new product demonstrations and guest celebrity chefs. Shows like HGTV’s I Hate My Kitchen!  were videotaping at select booths.  You could even stop by and listen in on live radio shows from Mark and Theresa at MyFixItUpLife (pictured).  With a slightly higher attendance than last year’s show in Chicago, this year’s lively K/BIS highlighted efficiency, beauty, comfort and more.    

Efficiency

Earning a coveted Best of KBIS People’s Choice Award, startup company Penguin Toilets, introduced its Model 524 toilet with Overflow Protection.  The Model 524 is a Water Sense labeled as part of the EPA’s program to protect the future of our nation's water supply.

Build Buzz at IBS: Mix Social Media with In-Person Networking

Create buzz, familiarize and engage prospects and customers face-to-face by utilizing a TweetUp.   A TweetUp connects Twitter users with similar interests in one physical location with an event or social gathering that can focus on your company’s products or services.  Many trade shows across several industries, like the International Builders' Show (IBS) in Orlando, offer a great opportunity to meet prospects, customers and even members of the media.  Put a human face on the increasing number of digital personas your business interacts with regularly.  Use this effective social media strategy to combine new age marketing techniques with traditional in-person networking.

Many businesses harness TweetUps to meet customers, prospects and drive sales.  For example, if your business launches a new product at the International Builders' Show, turn to Twitter. Alert your followers, the Twitter-verse and show attendees about your event.  (Be sure to use the official International Builders' Show hashtag, #IBS2011.)  At the TweetUp, offer free samples of your products or demonstrations to familiarize prospects with your business and innovative offerings.  The benefits are threefold.  You gather immediate feedback, attendees share their experiences of the event with their online peers and attract editors who attend shows like IBS.