As vaccination spreads and restrictions are lifted throughout the United States, businesses are returning to normalcy with large, in-person gatherings. ASI is helping lead the way with redesigned hosted-buyer events beginning in June and our large annual in-person trade show July 13-15 in Chicago.

But what does that mean for virtual trade shows? Is it time to pull the plug?

David Betke doesn’t think so. The principal of Do Better Marketing, a division of Canadian distributor Avatar Brand Management (asi/127901), embraced the digital disruption last year with GreenShows, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional trade shows. In this Promo Insiders podcast, Senior Writer John Corrigan chats with Betke about his innovative platform and the future of the trade show experience. 

Podcast Chapters (only available on desktop)
0:55: What makes GreenShows unique
3:07: Saving a 65,000-acre forest with T-shirts
5:09: Building apps
5:44: Back under lockdown
8:04: Status of promo sales
8:38: Inspiration for GreenShows
10:56: Future of virtual trade shows

Since January 2021, GreenShows has hosted 12 events, providing suppliers and multi-line reps the ability to showcase their product line from the comfort of their home or office. In addition to the virtual trade show floor, the platform offers individually branded virtual tables with two- to eight-person seating, speed networking, live speakers and panels.

“Virtual trade shows are here to stay 100%.” – David Betke, Do Better Marketing

GreenShows also contributes to the environment. For each virtual event, Do Better Marketing purchases one metric ton of carbon credits, which allows the company to emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. Plus, the company plants five trees for each virtual booth. Since January 2021, GreenShows has planted over 2,300 trees.

Watch on YouTube