REVOLUTIONISING EVENTS

What is the main purpose of your business? The primary goal of Xpofairs is to revolutionise the trade show industry, much like e-commerce transformed brick-and-mortar retail. We aim to offer greater choice and convenience at a fraction of the cost. The first trade show was is 1851 – the world of trade show today hasn't moved on. We are removing the geographical and financial constraints of traditional trade shows, we enable more companies to exhibit, providing a wider variety of options. Attendees can engage with the latest innovations from anywhere, at any time, ensuring unparalleled convenience. Additionally, by eliminating the major costs associated with traditional trade shows—such as space, stands, carpet, electrics, shipping, insurance, travel etc. – we make it possible for anyone to participate at a significantly lower expense. We know we can't replicate the in person experience of traditional trade shows. That's why we believe traditional trade shows will continue to thrive for a long time, they still have a role to play. Nonetheless, there are many people who would like to participate in or attend trade shows but are unable or unwilling to do so. We are here for them.

What challenges have you overcome since the show's launch? I think we have faced two main challenges. The first is people's apprehension to be the first to try something new. Everyone we've shown has loved the look of our show and supports our vision to reinvent trade shows. Yet, there's always that hesitation about being the first. However, as we've gained more participants, it's become easier to convince others to join. We often tell people that you can't wait for others to make the change you want to see. We must be the change ourselves. We've been fortunate to have wonderful, entrepreneurial early adopters who have been incredibly supportive and insightful. The other question we get a lot is about the inability to feel and see products in real life. Interestingly, this concern usually comes from exhibitors, not buyers, who seem unbothered by it. This reminds me of the early days of online retail. Initially, many people doubted it, believing you couldn't buy things such as food or clothes without seeing them in person. Those who hesitated lost out, while those who embraced the change found success. Similarly, we believe that the trade show experience can evolve, and those willing to adapt will reap the rewards.

Can you give us an extensive overview of how your company services the gift industry? Central to our vision is democratising trade shows: ensuring that everyone – from fresh start-ups and independent designers to big corporations – gets the same chance to be seen. It's not about who has the loudest voice or the biggest marketing budget. That's why everyone gets the same size stand at the same fixed flat fee. This approach is not only fairer but also ensures that the best products shine. By levelling the playing field, we promote innovation and quality, ultimately leading to a better industry for all. We believe that when the best products win, everyone benefits, and the entire trade show experience is enriched. In short, we offer the industry a revolutionary way to source products for their stores and to access buyers.

What sets you apart from your competitors? Most people will hear "online trade show" and think "I've tried those before", and they were complicated, ineffective and were not as good as traditional tradeshows. What makes us different is that it is an online trade show that actually works! Our environment is not like anything you've seen before – it's not a website, directory or meeting scheduler. Every aspect is designed to make trade shows faster, cheaper, easier and better. You can set up a stand in minutes without the pain and hassle of the design and build. You can visit whenever you like from wherever you like. All of this at a fraction of the cost, especially when you consider travel, accommodation and all those other costs involved. An XpoFair also eliminates the unnecessary carbon-footprint and scandalous waste from traditional trade shows by well over 90 percent. I know a lot of people will be sceptical, we know seeing is believing so drop us a line and we will give you a demo – we are really proud of it.

Why do you think now is the time for online tradeshows? There has been a shift in our society towards embracing online alternatives. Virtual interactions, such as meetings over Zoom or Teams, have become the norm, making in-person meetings less frequent. We've observed a significant increase in online purchasing, whether through B2B trade sites or marketplaces. Tools like, XpoFairs, Canva and others are paving the way for the future, making work faster, cheaper, easier, and more efficient. Another compelling reason is that numerous factors have driven up costs for businesses of all sizes. Traditional trade shows are no exception. As a result, companies are actively seeking cost effective solutions, and the benefits of a trade show alternative.

How can giftware buyers benefit from an online tradeshow? The most important thing is for visitors to attend and interact with people as much as possible! To this end we have made it super easy to register and buy a ticket. An important aspect that appeals to buyers, particularly of well-known stores is the element of privacy. For example, buyers from big national retailers usually get bombarded as soon as they get onto a stand. With our unique environment buyers have the freedom to browse when they like, for as long as they like. It is up to them to make the first move, and they can do it on their own terms, whether it's thought the instant chat, a video call, a meeting, downloading a brochure or one of our other tools. No one will approach you unless you initiate contact. The benefit for exhibitors is that you are getting great quality leads from people who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer.

How do you view the future of independent retail? I've chatted with many suppliers, and it's clear their hearts are set on independent retailers. Whether it's new brands or big multi-nationals, everyone loves indies! It's a solid foundation compared to relying on a single big chain that could drop them with a change in buyer or circumstances. The issue that suppliers face s how to reach them all but The Gift Fair will help solve that. Independent stores offer genuinely unique and special items. With food and beverage spots dominating our high streets, there's often less variety for shoppers looking for gifts and homewares. There's also a real sense of community in many independent stores. For instance, I've visited Savita from Northwood Cards a few times. She seems to know everyone who walks in. That kind of personal touch is meaningful. Times are tough right now, but I genuinely believe things are looking up for independent retail.

Do you have any advice for new businesses starting out in the world of gifts? Buy a stand at The Gift Fair – kidding! But do reach out to us, we have lots of incentives for new business to help them get a foot in the door and be a part of The Gift Fair so they have a chance to showcase their products somewhere they may not normally be able to. I do think you have to find ways of engaging with people in the industry and of course buyers. There is no better place to do this than in the Gift industry. Everyone is so friendly, helpful and encouraging – engage with people, be seen and be yourself. Social media is great up to a certain point. It may get your name out there, but I don't think that's enough to always get you in front of buyers. I also think it's important to be yourself, people want something genuine so find your area and stick with it, be different.

What can we expect in the future from the company? We are starting with gifts because it's what I know, technically as a tech company our ambitions are global – but as the adage goes change starts at home – I say the adage, but I think I have just made that up! There is a genuine excitement in our community that this is the change that many Exhibitors have been calling for.
From the get-go we aren't restricting ourselves to the gift industry – we are going to do trade shows in hundreds of industries and sectors across the globe. We do have we have two editions of The Gift Fair in 2025, firstly in January and the second is in September.

How do people get involved? We truly believe seeing is believing! Reach out to us at info@xpofairs.com and one of the team would be happy to give you a demonstration of how it works and answer any questions you may have. The tickets for visitors will go on sale in the Autumn, keep an eye out in Gift Focus for some discount codes!

XPO FAIRS
T: +44 (0)208 781 1106 www.thegiftfair.com | www.xpofairs.com