Conference vs. Tradeshow: Key Differences and Event Planning Resources

Organising an event for your organisation? It pays to understand if you need a conference or a tradeshow. There is a big difference between the two. While both are popular event formats, they serve distinct purposes and require different strategies for success. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key differences between these two event types and highlight how our new free tool can help you find the perfect venues, tools, and checklists to ensure your event runs smoothly. 

What’s the Difference Between a Conference ad a Tradeshow? 

Deciding between a conference or a tradeshow means firstly determining what your goal here is for your organisation. Here’s a breakdown of each event type: 

Conferences: A Focus on Learning and Networking

1. Purpose: Conferences are designed to educate, inform, and foster discussion. The crowd is often known to each other. If you have keynote speakers, panels, and workshops, then you are holding a conference (not a tradeshow).
2. Audience: Conferences are typically aimed at professionals and industry experts. The emphasis is on learning and growing with like-minded individuals. Group discussions, interactive sessions, and networking sessions are normal. 
3. Venue: Conferences require large or small conference venues that can accommodate seated sessions, breakout rooms, audio-visual equipment, and a comfortable environment for participants to learn and interact. 

Tradeshows: A Focus on Product Display and Sales 

1. Purpose: Tradeshows can be both b2b and b2c. Generally speaking, tradeshows want to capture as many relevant audiences as possible. In most instances, this audience will be brand new to the services and products that you offer. You are seeking new business during tradeshows. If not new business, you are seeking awareness. These events are designed to generate leads, build relationships, and boost sales through exhibitions and product demonstrations. 
2. Audience: Tradeshows are attended by buyers, sellers or industry professionals looking for new products, services, or partnerships. These events are more about showcasing offerings and building connections than the formal learning or speaking engagements found at conferences. 
3. Venue: Tradeshows require large exhibition spaces with booths, displays, and areas for people to walk through and engage with vendors. The focus is on creating a dynamic, interactive environment that encourages visitors to interact. 

How Our Resource Page Can Help You Plan Your Next Event 

Understanding the key differences between a conference and a tradeshow is the first step in planning a successful event. As a leading supplier of promotional products and event tools, we at Cubic Promote have developed a comprehensive resource page explicitly designed to help event organisers find the perfect venue and stay organised throughout the planning process. 

Venue Suggestions: Small, Medium, and Large

We’ve compiled a list of recommended conference and tradeshow venues across Australia, from intimate spaces for small gatherings to massive convention centres for national and international events. Whether you’re planning a small seminar, a mid-sized conference, or a large-scale tradeshow, our resource page has suggestions for every type of event. 

Event Planning Tools and Checklists 

We’ve also included a handy tradeshow exhibition checklist with actionable items for each event phase to keep your event planning on track. Our pre-show checklist helps you with tasks like: 

1. Finalising venue details 
2. Preparing marketing materials 

Our during-show checklist covers: 

1. Managing booths 
2. Coordinating with speakers and attendees 
3. Tips for a stress-free show 

The post-show checklist helps you evaluate the following:

1. Lead generation and follow-up 
2. Event feedback 
3. Success metrics and reporting 

With these checklists, you’ll stay organised and ensure no detail is overlooked. 

Why Visit Our Resource Page? 

Whether planning a conference or a tradeshow, our event resource page is the ultimate guide to help you choose the right venues, prepare the necessary materials, and organise your event efficiently. Here’s how it can benefit you: 

1. Venue suggestions for all event sizes and locations across Australia 
2. Comprehensive event checklists to keep you on track before, during, and after your show 
3. Tools and tips for choosing the best branded merchandise and giveaways like printed lanyards to enhance your event 

Take the stress out of event planning. Visit our resource page today and start preparing for your next successful conference or tradeshow. 

Get Started Today 

Ready to plan your next conference or tradeshow? Our Cubic Promote resource page has all the tools and information you need to make your event successful. Whether you’re searching for venue recommendations or need a checklist to keep your planning on track, we’ve got you covered.  📞 Call 1300 858 288 or contact us. 

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