Sydney markets, expos, fetes & fairs

ingashoebiz replied:

Hi Scrappy,

It depends some start from $20 for a stall, some I have had great leads from and bookings, I always view these as networking and getting your name and product out there in the community.

It depends on how they are organised and run and how many of similar products they will have, I have list of questions I ask them first, eg is this the first time they are holding the fete, how well advertised will it be, are they charging entry fee etc. is there anyone with similar products etc.

Marie replied:

I have never tired expos but , I have markets and fairs to be non profitable. Sometimes a real waste of time.

Marie

HandsOn replied:

Scrappy,

I find markets etc are more about leads then selling, as i have only ever sold 2 felt stories but handed out lots of flyers and taken down info for people who would like a full range catalogue posted to them. It generally, for me, has just been a waste of time but it gets the name out there definately. Seeing as my business is such a small name, it helps! Perhaps if you were to do a demo or something, draw people over to see what you are creating would help? but just with a display i'm afraid doesn't cut it from my experience...

A few tips ive found:

- If they have a white elephant stall, don't waste your time going! Most people there want everything for $2 or less.
- Definately ask about how it will be advertised and how many they have run. I also ask about how many stalls there will be, and what product ranges are covered.
- Personally, my best stalls have been out of sydney! I did one in Brooklyn (F3) and sold over $300. In sydney, most i've ever sold is $28 (for one item mind you.)

I guess its up to the company and individual, give it a shot and see how you go. I got burned last year, so I am very reluctant to try again. Maybe when the cooler weather comes back!!

Jo