Distributor Connect Cheat Sheet Part 1: What is a Distributor Connect event?

If you’ve attended any of our Distributor Connect events over the last five years, then this article isn’t for you. You've already experienced first-hand the differences between our intimate format and that of a standard industry trade show, where it’s almost impossible to fit in more than a quick hello and handshake. If you’ve never been to a Distributor Connect event, then listen up because you’re missing out on guaranteed face time with leading industry suppliers—and a whole lot of fun.

Now that I’ve got your attention, let’s get right to the important stuff. Distributor Connect brings great people together to make great things happen. These events pair top-selling distributors with up to 25 well-known print and promotional product suppliers for one-on-one, 20-minute, pre-scheduled meetings in supplier suites. In preparation for these meetings, suppliers are given information about you, your company and your challenges, so they can speak intelligently with you about ideas to help you to solve problems and expand your book of business.

I know what you’re going to say: “Elise, your event sounds lovely, but my schedule is full as it is—I’ve got other travel on the agenda, I’m short-staffed, I can’t afford to be away from my desk for three additional days, my dog ate my homework…”

Please hold your objections. Print+Promo gets it—your time is valuable, and we’d never put you in a fruitless situation. Don’t just take my word for it. Listen to a couple of our past attendees.

Here’s Pierre Hebert, president of Hebert Marketing (Canada) Corp., who wasn’t sure how to make it work, but ultimately gave Distributor Connect a try:

It was a challenge to fit the time in my busy schedule, but it was a great time investment to attend the event. It brought me new business opportunities, and it permits me to share wonderful time with knowledgeable print industry people.

And here’s Megan Parker, director of accounts for Evergreen Print Solutions, on why Distributor Connect was worth the time investment:

Distributor Connect is a first-class event, well-organized and definitely worth your time. The relationships and connections that you are able to build with the suppliers in just a short time, are unlike any other trade show. I’m grateful for the three days spent at Distributor Connect in San Antonio, and our business is better because of it.

Where else are you going to get all that plus views like this:

A room with a view at the luxurious Pelican Grand Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Or guacamole on demand:

The delicious guacamole was in high demand at our recent Distributor Connect event in San Antonio.

Still not sold? OK, here’s my best pitch: Distributor Connect events are 100-percent FREE to all attending distributors. That’s right, free, as in “no registration fee, no meal or drink tickets, and no hassle.” Distributors are taken care of by friendly Print+Promo staff members from the minute they arrive at the airport to the minute they get back on the plane. We cover hotel reservations, meals, on-site transportation and networking activities, and provide all registration materials.

“As we enter our 5th year putting on our Distributor Connect events, the most frequently asked question I receive about our events is: ‘What sets Distributor Connect apart from the typical trade show?’” Jim Harvie, publisher of Print+Promo, told me. “My answer is usually, ‘Where should I start?’ Distributor Connect is a carefully planned-out event, scheduling 20-minute, one-on-one appointments between top-tier distributors and top industry suppliers in private hotel suites where the supplier and distributor can discuss individual projects, learn about possible new solutions, new product offerings or even how a supplier can simply save the distributor time or money. This event develops relationships that last far beyond the event to create strong business partnerships. The second most commonly asked question I get, and this comes right after the event ends, is: ‘When is the next one and how can I be invited back?’ If you qualify to come to one of our Distributor Connects, don’t miss the chance—this really is a golden opportunity.”

You can read more testimonials from satisfied distributors, or, even better, come to a Distributor Connect and see for yourself!

Here’s the list of upcoming events still available to attend:

• May 13 to 15, 2020, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
• Nov. 4 to 6, 2020, in San Diego

If you are interested in attending an upcoming Distributor Connect, contact Mike Cooper via email at distributorconnect@napco.com, or call him at (215) 238-5434. Complete the Distributor Connect inquiry questionnaire located here. For event information and testimonials, visit connect.goprintandpromo.com.