Welcome to the Pawn Expo 23 Exhibitor Resource Center. This area is EXCLUSIVELY for exhibitors about exhibiting. It is your first stop in getting all those “frequently asked questions” answered immediately and finding the links that will make exhibiting streamlined and successful.
For all logistical and operational questions about exhibiting, please contact Veronica Costanza, Veronica@nationalpawnbrokers.org or call at 1-817-337-8830 press 3 or x1002.
For all questions about booth sales and sponsorship opportunities, contact Jody Kudless, Jody@nationalpawnbrokers.org or 1-732-252-9740
Your 10x10 Booth Includes:
- 1 – 8’ high Backwall Drape – Blue/ White
- 2 – 3’ high Sidewall Drape – Blue
- 7” x 44” Booth ID Sign
- 1-6’ White Draped Table
- 2– Black Side Chairs
Note: Aisle and Booth Carpet will have Tuxedo carpet.
Components of booth are subject to change based on current local county social distancing guidelines. Please refer to the Rules and Regulations link for information about noise levels and show floor.
EXHBITOR RESOURCES A-Z
EXHIBITOR KIT / EXHIBITING INFORMATION
Where do I find information about shipping, storage, material handling, furniture ordering and labor, along with deadlines and other items for my booth related items?
RPMXPO is the official service contractor for Pawn Expo 23. In March, you will receive an email directly from RPMEXPO with a unique login and password in order to access RPMXPO On-line Ordering. Please write down your password and if you need to recover it, please use this form or call/email: 678-742-7310/info@rpmxpo.com.
Although using the online ordering system is highly recommended, for reference purposes, we have provided a link to the Exhibitors Service Manual PDF that you can access here.
How Do I Order Electricity, Wi-Fi/Internet, AV equipment?
All utility services, technology, AV, and booth catering go directly through the Cobb Galleria Centre and not RPMEXPO. Please visit the Exhibitor Service Center to select PAWN EXPO 23 to create a username and password unique to you. Click here to download instructions for the online ordering process. If you have any problems logging in, please contact services@cobbgalleria.com or 770-989-5016. Cobb Galleria Centre is a cashless facility, so all exhibitor orders made through this system are credit/debit card only.
Do I need to purchase electricity?
Yes. While the Cobb Galleria Centre has overall building electricity, exhibitors need to purchase the outlets/voltage that will be necessary for your specific lighting and equipment needs. The booths do not automatically come with electrical outlets. Please purchase online through the Exhibitors Services link.
Please note that information on lighting equipment (crossbar, 8’ uprights, and stem lights is in expo kit on page 14). Glass cases have internal fluorescent lighting.
Do I need to purchase W-Fi/Internet?
Probably. The Cobb Galleria Centre offers Public Wi-Fi on an “as is” and “as available” basis. The public network is not a secure network and is subject to interference beyond the Centre’s control. The reliability of the basic internet at the convention venue is not guaranteed. Depending on your business needs, it may be advisable to purchase a premium enhanced internet connection using the information on-line through the Exhibitor Services Centre.
What about AV?
Audio Visual equipment for your booth is provided by the in-house AV team, ON Site Audio Visual. Their information is listed within the on-line Exhibitors Service Centre.
How can I display / hang signs in my booth?
Signs and banners can be hung in booth, provided they do not block other booths or aisles. Signs can be hung from the pipe using a “S” hook or zip ties that you provide, nothing can be pinned, stapled or taped to drape. Stand-alone sign holders can be ordered through RPMXPO.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE POLICY
May I offer food and beverage in my booth?
Yes, you may offer food and beverage in your booth. All items MUST be purchased through the Cobb Galleria Centre. Please refer to the Exhibitor Services Manual or contact us at veronica@NationalPawnbrokers.org for more information.
Are meals provided for my staff during trade show hours on Wednesday and Thursday?
All registered staff will have access to all meals served in the Exhibit Hall. There will be a trade show reception on Wednesday on the floor from 5-6pm. There will be a trade show lunch on both Wednesday and Thursday. Exhibitors may participate in these events provided their booths are staffed.
GUIDELINES
In addition to the NPA Rules and Regulations statement that all exhibitors initialed as part of their booth contract, all exhibitors and attendees of Pawn Expo23 are also responsible for adhering to the Facility guidelines of the Cobb Galleria Centre, as well as the Fire Marshall Guidelines.
HOTEL INFORMATION
How much do hotel rooms cost, and how do I make my room reservation?
NPA Room Rate – $179 per night plus taxes and parking fees at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center. The rate is available until June 19 but may sell out earlier. Reservations may be made online or by calling Marriott reservations 888-391-8724. Click here to book your room at the NPA rate.
The hotel is 20 miles from the airport. There is no hotel shuttle and there is no Marta station (Atlanta’s train system) near the hotel. If you are not renting a car (remember hotel parking fees apply), the hotel suggests using Lyft or Uber car services.
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Industry Insights are limited opportunities for exhibiting companies to secure meeting space during Pawn Expo to meet with, network and educate current and/ or potential clients. Each of the sixteen sessions is 50 minutes and includes screen, projector, podium and mic. The sessions cost $850 and are 12:00-12:50; 1:30-2:20; 3:00-3:50; and 4:30-5:20PM on Monday July 17.
INSURANCE
What are the insurance requirements for exhibitors?
Exhibitor Liability Insurance Program
As a standard requirement for all our show exhibitors, it is necessary for you to carry general liability coverage from an insurance company in good standing with minimum policy limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate. Insurance Coverage is not optional.
This insurance must be in force during the lease dates of the event, July 17-20, 2023, naming National Pawnbrokers Association (P.O Box 420, Victor, NY 14564) as the certificate holder. The following must be named as additional insured: National Pawnbrokers Association and Cobb Galleria Centre.
Rainprotection Insurance Program
If you do not have insurance, or would rather not use your own insurance, (similar to when you rent a car – so that claims would not be filed against your policy), we have set up a program with Rainprotection Insurance through which, you can purchase compliant insurance instantly online for only $84.
Click here to download Exhibitor Liability Insurance
Certificates of insurance must be sent to NPA by email to Veronica Costanza, veronica@nationalpawnbrokers.org no later than June 1, 2023.
LIST OF ATTENDEES
How do I obtain an attendee list?
A pre-show and post-show attendee list containing mailing addresses (no email addresses or phone numbers) will be provided to exhibitors via email. The pre-show list will be sent the week of June 19, 2023 and the post-show list will be sent following Pawn Expo.
REGISTRATION
Do I need to register myself and/or staff to gain access to the show floor?
Yes, you must register each member of your staff who will be on the show floor prior to the show by July 1, 2023. For each 10’ x 10’ booth, two complimentary full convention registrations will be issued. You received registration codes for these complimentary booths in your welcome email on February 1. These are to be used by eligible booth personnel only. No children under 16 are permitted. Click here to register.
What if I have more staff coming? Can they register, and how much does it cost?
All staff must be registered prior to the show. Exhibitors may register additional staff for the trade show only at a rate of $250 for members or $400 for non-members per additional staff member. If they wish to attend the Welcome Mixer on Monday and the Gala Dinner on Tuesday, and have not purchased a full conference ticket, individual guest tickets may be purchased for $300. Guest tickets include both the Welcome Mixer on Monday and the Gala Dinner on Tuesday. To register additional booth staff, go to registration page.
What is the difference between the full convention registration and trade show only registration for my staff?
You and any of your staff that are registered for the full convention have single access per ticket to all sessions on the agenda, all receptions (including Welcome Mixer on Monday, the Gala Dinner on Tuesday, Vendor Love on Wednesday), the exhibit hall, admission to the Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, breakfast Tuesday and breaks and lunches on Wednesday and Thursday, If you are not an NPA Industry Partner member, you do not have access to any “Member Only” events.
Any of your staff that is registered as trade show only have access to only the exhibit hall events: the show floor, the Wednesday Vendor Love reception, lunch and coffee breaks in the exhibit hall on Wednesday and Thursday. No sessions, mixers, or Galas are included with this ticket.
Can my staff attend the education sessions and networking events?
Any of your staff that are full convention registrants may attend all convention events, unless otherwise noted as “Pawnbroker Only” events. If you are not an NPA Industry Partner member, you do not have access to any “Member Only” events.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Click here to download PAWN EXPO 23 RULES AND REGULATIONS for Exhibitors.
SECURITY
Will there be security at the show? Will there be a secure room?
NPA will provide general security services at all times, during the trade show and throughout the night. An overnight secure room will be available to exhibitors for items such as jewelry if you wish to use it. The room will be available Monday, July 17 from 5pm – 9am; Tuesday, July 18 from 12pm – 10am; Wednesday July 19 from 6pm – 9am. Exhibitors are required to bring their valuables in a secure locked container or briefcase.
If you are arriving early, there are no safes behind hotel front desk free but the hotel has standard safes in your hotel room for personal use that are the guests responsibility. If you require special security services for your booth, please contact Veronica Costanza at veronica@nationalpawnbrokers.org.
What if I want to purchase additional video surveillance?
Click here or check exhibitor kit for information from MobileVideoguard.com.
THE JEWELRY EXCHANGE
Where can I find exhibitor information about The Jewelry Exchange?
Click here to visit The Jewelry Exchange page for more information. Please note that for 2023 all jewelry exchange exhibitors will be provided with all furniture, an identifying sign, power strips and electricity for their table for July 17 and 18. Electricity for expo floor booth must still be purchased. Due to tight spacing, signs and banners are discouraged. A company name sign is provided. Branded tablecloths are suggested.
Jewelry Exchange Hours: July 17 : 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM
July 18: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Questions? Please contact Veronica Costanza at veronica@nationalpawnbrokers.org.
TRADE SHOW HOURS (INCLUDING SET-UP AND BREAKDOWN)
When is setup and breakdown?
Setup Hours: Tuesday, July 18, 8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Breakdown Hours: Thursday, July 20 – 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Early breakdown is not permitted. Penalties, up to loss of booth for future year(s), will be applied to any exhibitor who breaks down early.
Exhibitors are not permitted to be in the exhibit hall outside of the setup and breakdown hours, other than when the trade show is open. This will be strictly enforced for security purposes.
What if I need additional time to setup or breakdown?
If you require setup or breakdown time outside of the posted hours, you must make arrangements in advance with Veronica Costanza veronica@nationalpawnbrokers.org.
What are the trade show Expo hours?
Wednesday July 19 – Trade Show – 10:30am-6pm
Thursday July 20 – Trade Show — 9am-1:30pm
Don’t forget that your booth must be staffed at all times and early breakdown is not permitted. Any exhibitor that breaks down and/or leaves early will be penalized.
USEFUL MARKETING TIPS
Before the Show:
- Complete the Pawn Expo Exhibitor Checklist to ensure you are prepared for the show.
- Review the RPMXPO On-line ordering expo kit to arrange shipments and order booth related items. Early Bird ordering ends June 16, 2023.
- Do not forget to order electricity, Internet and AV from Cobb Galleria Centre directly.
- Prepare 3-6 engaging questions to ask customers.
- Determine your main message. Make it a single, memorable statement.
- Set measurable goals for the show.
- Pack a supply box with things like pens, scissors, tape, paper clips, business cards, charger cords, and other supplies.
- Visit your booth like an attendee would and note your impression/experience.
More info to come about lead retrieval.
During the Show:
- Establish a dress code for your staff – avoid things like shorts and flip flops. If they look professional, they will act it, and better represent your company.
- Have open body language. People can read attitude and closed body language.
- Stand in your booth, do not sit.
- Always greet people with a genuine smile and show enthusiasm for your product/service.
- Keep your booth neat and clean. Store excess materials under the draped table or behind the curtain.
- Set up your booth so people can enter it. Do not just sit behind the table.
- Give away a promotional item that they can use at the show such as luggage tags, hand sanitizer, customized notepads, or other items.
- Do not chew gum or eat at your booth. Breath mints are always a good idea.
- Remember to ask questions instead of just giving a sales pitch.
- Try the 80/20 rule – 80% listening, 20% talking. Those who listen more tend to have greater success.
- Staff your booth always.
- Appeal to people’s 5 senses: sight, touch, smell, sound, and taste.
- Host a demonstration of your product/service in your booth.
- Use the mobile app to scan attendee’s QR codes and make notes in the app to qualify the leads or make notes on business cards to remember them better and be able to give more personalized follow up.
- Do not close early.
- Choose your booth for 2024 in Las Vegas with Jody during re-sign.
After the Show:
- Follow up in a timely manner with personalized correspondence.
- Prioritize your follow up by category – hot leads, strong prospects, possible customers.
- Thank attendees during your follow up correspondence.
- Two weeks post show, NPA will email final list of attendees to logistics contact for each exhibitor. List will have Company names, mailing addresses and attendee names only.
- Continue to remind attendees of your products, deals …. by advertising in National PawnBroker Magazine and reviewing our digital options with Jody Kudless, Jody@nationalpawnbrokers.org.
- Secure your booth for 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.