On 3 November, NMBS took to the internet with its first ever Virtual Exhibition for the power tools, tools, fixings and workwear sector.
The event brought 25 suppliers from across the industry together with 421 individuals from 328 independent merchant businesses, and was sponsored by Draper Tools, Makita, Stanley, Forgefix and Toolbank.
During the day-long exhibition, merchants were able to log on to the Exhibition platform from the comfort of their home or office. Once online, they could browse all the different suppliers to learn about the very latest products and services. Many of the suppliers also had exclusive Spot Buy offers and promotions available to online visitors, such as additional discounts on multiple purchases, or free products for offers over a certain amount.
Although the physical NMBS Exhibition could not be held this year, NMBS was keen to make the Virtual Exhibition as beneficial to merchants as possible, and so visitors also enjoyed the same rebate deals that they have become used to at the physical event. Exclusive rebate for those who logged in to the Virtual Exhibition ranged from 1% to 7.5% from selected suppliers, with these rebate deals extended to all orders placed in November.
On the Exhibition platform, each supplier was given a dedicated web page where they could post information about the company. Members could then browse the pages and arrange one-to-one interviews with the company’s sales and accounts managers, as well as watching video demonstrations of the latest products. A wide range of brochures and marketing material was also made available to view and download. Once merchants were satisfied with their choices, they were able to place their orders online through the Portal.
To encourage members and suppliers to engage with each other as much as possible, the Exhibition’s Live Chat function allowed them to search through and contact a full database of everyone who had signed up to the event.
The NMBS team was also available throughout the day to offer help and guide members through the Exhibition.
A touch of magic
As an exclusive treat for those Members and Suppliers who attended the Virtual Exhibition, entertainer and broadcaster David Meade took over Zoom on the afternoon before the Exhibition for an hour of magic, mindreading and entertainment.
As part of the afternoon, attendees who joined were entered into a prize draw for the chance to win either a magnum of champagne, or a bundle of Apple products worth £1,000. The winners were Paul Elmer, and Paul Smith from Bradfords, respectively.
NMBS Commercial Director Andy Hextall said: “It’s great to see so many faces on the screen and to be able to meet up on platforms like this. It’s a new way to catch up, learn and identify opportunities, and we’re delighted with the support we’ve seen from our Members and Suppliers. We really wanted to put on an event for them in a year when so much has been put on hold. Huge thanks also go to our sponsors – Makita, Toolbank, Stanley, ForgeFix and Draper – who supported the exhibition and preceding event with David Meade.”
