As living expenses continue to rise during tough economic times, it only makes sense that consumers are cutting back and spending less on items that are not essential.  As a result, sales are down and businesses begin to react.  The first area where most business owners cut is advertising and marketing expenses, which in turn does more harm than good.  

When revenue is down, businesses tend to spend less on marketing, which brings in fewer customers and decreases profits even further.  The key to managing a difficult financial phase is to concentrate on increasing business and boosting your marketing efforts.  When the market is down, it is important to be aggressive.  Research has proven those who are the most consistent in the market will succeed in any economy.  If you’re not advertising this year because of a limited budget, then you’re going to have to spend even more money the following year, to remind customers that you’re still around.  Maintaining advertising during good and bad times, shows consumers that your company can survive any economic circumstances, and therefore worthy of their business.

Advertising is investing in your business, and vital to the success of a company.   With the right exposure to the ideal market, your business should grow and succeed.  As a retailer, you might wonder what media outlet is most effective for your target audience, or what type of advertising best suits your products or services.  Do you want to find out how to reach the most people within your defined market for your advertising dollar?  If you want to find the perfect marketing mix, and new innovative ways to promote your business during a down economy, mark your calendars for the second annual MediaFest.

MediaFest is a program created by Retail Alliance® to provide tools to make retail businesses more effective.  The tradeshow will feature an extensive variety of advertising opportunities ranging from traditional media to unique marketing approaches, numerous advertising and networking opportunities, entertainment, an educational component, media exposure, delicious food provided by local restaurants, and more!    

The media trade show will take place on February 26.  MediaFest is free for Retail Alliance® members, so be sure to take advantage of this opportunity.  Whether you want your advertising to resonate with potential customers, or you want to find creative ways to help your business grow, MediaFest is an event you don’t want to miss!  

Remember, advertising is about consistency and always being in the consumer’s mind.  Customers may not want to buy at the moment, but if you’re the first business that comes to mind, ultimately you’ll earn the sale.

Exhibitor Pricing:
                  

Early-bird Special, through December 1, 2008	Exhibitor rates starting December 2, 2008
Member rate          Non-member rate	Member rate          Non-member rate
$300                           $500	$395                            $595
Food Vendor rate	Food Vendor rate
$150 + provide food samples	$200 + provide food samples

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming an exhibitor at Media Fest 2009 contact Jen Webber at 757.455.9323 or jwebber@retail-alliance.com.