Loose Time

Jessica Turnbull Interview

Show-Up & Stand Out: Australian Trade Show Strategist, Jessica Turnbull (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Australia, Best Practices, Branding, Branding, Culture, Design, Dusseldorf, Europe, Gender, Germany, Language, Leadership, Loose Time, Marketing, New Zealand, North America, Perth, Podcast, Relationships, Storytelling, Strategy, Sydney, Time, United States

Down Under Dynamics: Trade Show Strategies with Jess Turnbull (Part 2)

In Part 2 of this two-part interview, host Jeff Hannah talks with trade show strategist Jessica Turnbull of The Exhibit Company in Australia, during EXHIBITORLIVE 2024.

Continuing our enlightening conversation with Jess Turnbull, we delve deeper into the world of exhibitions and client engagement. With a relaxed demeanor characteristic of Australians, Jess brings a wealth of insights garnered from advising and training clients on engagements, ROI, and related topics. Emphasizing the importance of booth staff training and clarity of focus, Jess guides exhibitors on how to maximize their opportunities on the show floor. Drawing on her experiences, she contrasts the hospitality-driven approach seen in European exhibits with the more selective approach prevalent in Australia.

As we explore the concept of being “on” during shows, Jess underscores the importance of presenting one’s brand in the best possible light. From discussing the underlying reasons for exhibiting to the strategic placement of coffee on Australian stands, Jess shares invaluable perspectives that resonate with exhibitors worldwide.

In this insightful continuation, Jess Turnbull provides a nuanced exploration of the art of exhibiting and the intricacies of client engagement. Join us as we uncover the strategies and tactics that define successful exhibition experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of trade shows in Australia.

The Exhibit Company is an international custom exhibit agency, headquartered in New South Wales, Australia. They are uniquely positioned to work with brands for shows all across Australia. Their unique approach is based on strategy, creative design solutions, and solid project management. The Exhibit Company is not simply focused on providing an exhibit. Their holistic approach encompasses pre-show promotional activities, determining and tracking ROI, lead tracking & management, and booth staff training, among many other services.

Part 1 of my interview with Jess.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee with host Jeff Hannah.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-turnbull-32556950/

Website: www.theexhibitcompany.com.au

Jessica Turnbull Interview

Show-Up & Stand Out: Australian Trade Show Strategist, Jessica Turnbull (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Australia, Best Practices, Branding, Branding, Covid-19, Culture, Design, Dusseldorf, Europe, Gender, Germany, Language, Leadership, Loose Time, Marketing, New Zealand, North America, Perth, Podcast, Relationships, Storytelling, Strategy, Sydney, Time, United States, Verbal Communications

 Down Under Dynamics: Trade Show Strategies with Jess Turnbull (Part 1) 

In Part 1 of this two-part interview, host Jeff Hannah talks with trade show strategist Jessica Turnbull of The Exhibit Company in Australia, during EXHIBITORLIVE 2024.

During this conversation, Jess shared insights into her journey, having co-founded The Exhibit Company with her stepfather, Chris Lamb some years ago. Their approach to the business is truly distinctive, placing strategy at the forefront – followed by outstanding design. It’s evident that their forward-thinking mindset has positioned them ahead of the curve, consistently delivering clear value to their clients across the continent.

Navigating the intricacies of trade shows, Jess emphasized the significance of a holistic approach, spanning pre-show preparations, on-site engagement, and post-event follow-ups. It’s critically important to make the absolute best use of your opportunities on the show floor – to really SHOW-UP – and give it your best!

While virtual engagements have their place in the marketing mix, you really must make an intentional effort to cut through all the “white noise” out there. The inherent value of face-to-face interactions remains undeniable, particularly in the Post-COVID era that we are in. This shifting landscape has brought about a change in overall attendee profile, with a noticeable uptick in the quality and focus of participants.

This conversation with Jessica Turnbull provided invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of exhibitions and the importance of strategic thinking in producing impactful experiences. Jess touched upon the dynamics of international install timelines, drawing comparisons between the USA, Europe, and Australia, before reflecting on the timeless wisdom encapsulated in Parkinson’s Law. Join us as we uncover the nuances of exhibiting in a post-pandemic world, and the enduring principles that shape our industry.

The Exhibit Company is an international custom exhibit agency, headquartered in New South Wales, Australia. They are uniquely positioned to work with brands for shows all across Australia. Their unique approach is based on strategy, creative design solutions, and solid project management. The Exhibit Company is not simply focused on providing an exhibit. Their holistic approach encompasses pre-show promotional activities, determining and tracking ROI, lead tracking & management, and booth staff training, among many other services.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee with host Jeff Hannah.

Part 2 of my interview with Jess.

The Exhibit Company

Jessica Turnbull on LinkedIn

Email: jess@theexhibitcompany.com.au

Jeff Hannah & Francisco Collazo

Three Generations in Mexico with Francisco Collazo (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Design, Dusseldorf, Ecuador, Europe, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Loose Time, Mexico, North America, Podcast, Puerto Rico, Relationships, Time, United States

A Look into the Life of Industrial Designer Francisco Collazo

This is Part 2 of a two-part interview with international industry leader and designer Francisco Collazo, Partner and CEO of SISTEXPO (Sistemas de Exposición) in Mexico City, Mexico.

In this fascinating conversation, Francisco Collazo shares his extensive journey into the exhibition industry, tracing the evolution of his career from its inception as a young boy working with his father. More than 40 years later, Francisco’s company is now well into its third family generation and has established an outstanding reputation for themselves globally in the industry.

Host Jeff Hannah asks Francisco to share the transformative shifts he has witnessed in the Mexican exhibition landscape over the years, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the industry in Mexico. Nowadays, most of the exhibits are custom-built, wooden exhibits versus system exhibits; many are still build and burn (one time use).

Francisco highlighted his knowledge of system exhibits, shedding light on the diverse range, some of the history, and how he became an expert in this area. He mentions his past interactions with historical system influencers, such as Hans Bruder (global leader of OCTANORM for over 50 years). Some of the systems they discussed are beMatrix, Aluvision, Agam, OCTANORM, SYMA, and meroform,

They discuss the primary exhibition venues in Mexico, and how those have evolved over the years in their respective areas:

Palacio de los Deportes

World Trade Center Mexico City

Centro Citibanamex

Expo Guadalajara

Jeff and Francisco share their common bond of their pathways to becoming an industrial designer. Francisco shares how he is particularly passionate about giving back to future generations of designers and design programs at various universities. Francisco’s heavy involvement in international and local industry associations underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing with others across the industry.

Francisco’s international work experience is a key focal point, illustrating the intricacies and nuances of navigating business across borders – particularly in Latin America.

Francisco opens-up about the unique experience of collaborating with family members in the industry, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of working alongside loved ones. He shares his outlook on navigating some of those challenges – and well as the reward of working with his family in the formation of this third-generation business. They specifically mention the work that his son Paco Collazo is doing with Happy Projects, based in Atlanta.

Jeff asks Francisco about his legacy, where he emphasizes continuous innovation, building connections, and providing the highest level of service possible (beyond what is happening on the trade show floor).

Host Jeff Hannah summarizes this interview by stating, “good stuff to build a business on; good stuff to build a life around.”

SISTEXPO are international exhibit and event builders, headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. They are uniquely positioned to work across North America and South America, with a reach far beyond – into Europe and elsewhere around the world. SISTEXPO designs and builds exhibits for trade shows, works as a general contractor for entire exhibitions, provides international pavilions, and produces full-scale events. Well into their third family generation, SISTEXPO has a strong track record of over 40 years and continues to be heavily involved in international associations and works with many global brands. They are proud members of IFES, EDPA, ESSA, bePartner Network, MPI, OSPI, and AMPROFEC.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs, Florida (USA) with host Jeff Hannah.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-collazo-ortega-23601639/

Website: https://www.sistexpo.com/

Jeff Hannah & Francisco Collazo

Three Generations in Mexico with Francisco Collazo (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Design, Ecuador, Europe, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Loose Time, Mexico, North America, Puerto Rico, Relationships, United States

A Look into the Life of Industrial Designer Francisco Collazo

This is Part 1 of a two-part interview with international industry leader and designer Francisco Collazo, Partner and CEO of SISTEXPO (Sistemas de Exposición) in Mexico City, Mexico.

In this fascinating conversation, Francisco Collazo shares his extensive journey into the exhibition industry, tracing the evolution of his career from its inception as a young boy working with his father. More than 40 years later, Francisco’s company is now well into its third family generation and has established an outstanding reputation for themselves globally in the industry.

Host Jeff Hannah asks Francisco to share the transformative shifts he has witnessed in the Mexican exhibition landscape over the years, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the industry in Mexico. Nowadays, most of the exhibits are custom-built, wooden exhibits versus system exhibits; many are still build and burn (one time use).

Francisco highlighted his knowledge of system exhibits, shedding light on the diverse range, some of the history, and how he became an expert in this area. He mentions his past interactions with historical system influencers, such as Hans Bruder (global leader of OCTANORM for over 50 years). Some of the systems they discussed are beMatrix, Aluvision, Agam, OCTANORM, SYMA, and meroform,

They discuss the primary exhibition venues in Mexico, and how those have evolved over the years in their respective areas:

Palacio de los Deportes

World Trade Center Mexico City

Centro Citibanamex

Expo Guadalajara

Jeff and Francisco share their common bond of their pathways to becoming an industrial designer. Francisco shares how he is particularly passionate about giving back to future generations of designers and design programs at various universities. Francisco’s heavy involvement in international and local industry associations underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing with others across the industry.

Francisco’s international work experience is a key focal point, illustrating the intricacies and nuances of navigating business across borders – particularly in Latin America.

Francisco opens-up about the unique experience of collaborating with family members in the industry, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of working alongside loved ones. He shares his outlook on navigating some of those challenges – and well as the reward of working with his family in the formation of this third-generation business. They specifically mention the work that his son Paco Collazo is doing with Happy Projects, based in Atlanta.

Jeff asks Francisco about his legacy, where he emphasizes continuous innovation, building connections, and providing the highest level of service possible (beyond what is happening on the trade show floor).

Host Jeff Hannah summarizes this interview by stating, “good stuff to build a business on; good stuff to build a life around.”

SISTEXPO are international exhibit and event builders, headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. They are uniquely positioned to work across North America and South America, with a reach far beyond – into Europe and elsewhere around the world. SISTEXPO designs and builds exhibits for trade shows, works as a general contractor for entire exhibitions, provides international pavilions, and produces full-scale events. Well into their third family generation, SISTEXPO has a strong track record of over 40 years and continues to be heavily involved in international associations and works with many global brands. They are proud members of IFES, EDPA, ESSA, bePartner Network, MPI, OSPI, and AMPROFEC.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs, Florida (USA) with host Jeff Hannah.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-collazo-ortega-23601639/

Website: https://www.sistexpo.com/

Jeff Hannah & Alejandro Escalante

Born into the Exhibition Industry

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Branding, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Ecuador, Europe, Germany, Language, Latin America, Loose Time, Marketing, Mexico, New Zealand, North America, Podcast, Precise Time, Puerto Rico, Relationships, Strategy, Time, United States

Alejandro Escalante Grew Up on the Show Floor in Mexico

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah interviews Mexican industry globetrotter Alejandro (Alex) Escalante from Guadalajara. Alejandro is part of the family-owned company, Omega Group, where he is involved in sales, project management, logistics, and many other activities. He has worked in many regions of the world, such as Europe, Latin America, and the USA.

They discuss cultural, mindset, and industry differences between Mexico and the USA, as well as Mexico and other Latin American countries. Alejandro discusses how to reach Mexican clients, and the importance of building long-term, personal relationships.

They discuss the impact that COVID-19 has had on the exhibition industry in Mexico, on the economy there – and how the recovery is progressing.

On a personal note, Jeff asks Alex about his years of industry experience, and what he learned working at notable European companies, such as Atelier Damböck in Germany. Alex shares how those cross-cultural work experiences helped to shape his approach to business.

This interview was recorded during EDPA ACCESS 2021 at the The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood Curio Collection in Hollywood, Florida with host Jeff Hannah.

Email: aez@omegagroup.com.mx

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alejandro-escalante-a50394105/

Website: www.omegaexp.com.mx

Double decker exhibit at EuroShop

Insights into Argentina – Architect Marcela Medrano

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Design, Ecuador, Europe, Gender, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Loose Time, North America, Podcast, Relationships, Time, United States

Insights into Argentina with Architect Marcela Medrano

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah interviews Marcela Medrano, President of Dodecaedro Group, based in Buenos Aires. Jeff interviewed Marcela during EuroShop 2020 in Düsseldorf, Germany.

Jeff talks with Marcela about the unique distinctions of the trade show (trade fair) industry in Argentina. They discuss the typical approach to exhibit fabrication, which is mostly custom fabrication versus modular systems. They also get into some details about printed graphics – and the fact that silicon edged graphics (SEG) are not readily produced in Argentina.

Marcela also discusses the economic realities and challenges of working in Argentina and Latin America. In the past several years, prior to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the trade show industry was hard-hit in Argentina, due to multiple years of hyper-inflation and currency devaluation. Client budgets cannot keep pace with the growth of inflation, making it harder for brands to participate in trade shows and events. With most materials being imported, along with skyrocketing labor costs, the industry has suffered greatly.

Marcela reviews several of the major convention centers in Buenos Aires, such as La Rural, Tecnópolis, The Buenos Aires Convention Centre (CEC), and the various types of international shows that are typically held in Buenos Aires.

Jeff also asks Marcela to explain more about the cultural perspectives in Argentina, as well as the ethnic landscape, and what has been happening recently in terms of immigration.

Dodecaedro Group is a global alliance between Dodecaedro (Argentina), Dodecaedro (Brazil), and Dylunio (Spain). Marcela is from Mendoza, Argentina, and holds a degree in architecture from the Universidad de Mendoza. She is currently based at their HQ office in Buenos Aires.

With more than 20 years of experience and developed projects in more than 40 countries, Dodecaedro Group has a proven track-record in design and stand construction globally. Dodecaedro Group is member of the International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES), the Experiential Designers and Producers Association (EDPA), the Argentine Association of Organizers and Suppliers of Exhibitions, Congresses, Events and Convention Bureaus (AOCA), and Buenos Aires Convention and Visitors Bureau.

This trade show (EuroShop) was one of the last major trade shows to be held before the COVID-19 Pandemic caused shows globally to be cancelled. EuroShop is the world’s largest trade fair for the retail industry, trade shows and associated sectors. There are over 90,000 attendees at the show, with more than 2,000 exhibitors from 56 countries.

This interview was recorded at the Messe Düsseldorf in Düsseldorf, Germany at the Exhibitor Magazine booth on the show floor.

Email: mmedrano@dodecaedrogroup.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcela-medrano-9a003328/

Jeff Hannah Speaks at EuroShop 2020

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Authority, Best Practices, Branding, Communications, Culture, Dusseldorf, Europe, Gender, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Loose Time, Marketing, Middle East, Non-Verbal Communications, North America, Podcast, Precise Time, Relationships, Strategy, Time, United Kingdom, United States

Jeff Hannah Speaks at EuroShop 2020

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah speaks at EuroShop 2020 in Düsseldorf, Germany as part of the IFES Expo & Event Stage. Jeff’s lecture was titled Cultural Frameworks – which highlights the need for focusing on the dimensions of national culture. Jeff states that cultural differences are one of the most ignored aspects of international trade show programs.

Neglecting subtle nuances in cross-cultural business can be devastating, as unrealized components of culture can damage business relationships and nullify marketing efforts. Recognizing that all business is conducted within the “context of culture” helps one to see things from a totally different perspective. This session provides a brief overview of the various dimensions of culture which should considered when exhibiting in other countries, such as:

IFES is the International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services, headquartered in Europe. Jeff’s lecture was hosted by IFES as part of their series called, The Art of Exhibition, an important aspect of the educational program provided at EuroShop.

EuroShop is the world’s largest trade fair for the retail industry, trade shows and associated sectors. There are over 90,000 attendees at the show, with more than 2,000 exhibitors from 56 countries. It is the source of information and inspiration for professionals and decision-makers on every conceivable aspect of retailing. It is the showcase for trends and innovations. A hot spot for sales and marketing experts seeking new ideas to spotlight and sell their company’s products and services even better.

This interview was recorded at the Messe Düsseldorf in Düsseldorf, Germany – and moderated by the infamous Han Leenhouts from The Netherlands.

Jeff Hannah on LinkedIn

Email: jeff@globalexhibitor.com

Jeff Hannah Atlanta Business RadioX

Jeff Hannah Interviewed on Atlanta Business RadioX

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Abu Dhabi, Asia, Australia, Best Practices, Communications, Culture, Design, Europe, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, London, Loose Time, Marketing, Middle East, North America, Podcast, Precise Time, Relationships, Strategy, The Netherlands, Time, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States

Jeff Hannah Interviewed on Atlanta Business RadioX

Jeff Hannah is the founder and former President of Nuance International (known as Gielissen Interiors & Exhibitions USA). He is also a leader, lecturer, consultant, and writer in the fields of international project management, budgeting, design, and cultures. With an accomplished track record of more than 25 years, Jeff has led large, multicultural teams in the strategic development, design, and management of complex projects in over 50 countries. He has managed companies in London, Abu Dhabi and Atlanta. Jeff specializes in understanding the various cultural nuances and the distinct challenges to working in each region of the world and has developed methodologies and processes for mitigating those risks to deliver world-class solutions. Jeff earned his B.S. Degree in Industrial Design from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

This interview was recorded in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Jeff Hannah on LinkedIn

Email: jeff@globalexhibitor.com

Pavilions at the Dubai Airshow

Terri Morrison – Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands® (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Abu Dhabi, Age, Argentina, Asia, Authority, Best Practices, Brazil, Chile, Communications, Cuba, Culture, Dubai, Ecuador, Europe, Gender, Germany, Language, Latin America, Loose Time, Mexico, Middle East, Non-Verbal Communications, North America, Podcast, Precise Time, Puerto Rico, Relationships, Saudi Arabia, Time, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Verbal Communications

Communications, Body Language, & Authority

This is Part 2 of a two-part interview with Ms. Terri Morrison, known worldwide for her series of books called Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands® (co-authored by Wayne A. Conaway). Recently, Terri Morrison has been speaking at EXHIBITORLIVE in Las Vegas and focusing on the international aspects of the trade show industry, where she met-up with host Jeff Hannah.

Terri’s books have sold over 450,000 copies. Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands® has been translated into everything from Mandarin to Estonian, and is on INC. Magazine’s 7 Best Books on How to Negotiate.

Her new book Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands®: Courtrooms to Corporate Counsels was recently released and is available online from the American Bar Association.  Her clients include the American Bar Association, AT&T, Accenture, American Airlines, American Express… and many more!

Terri has been profiled and quoted in the Wall Street Journal, Asia Times, Investor’s Weekly, the Washington Post, Fast Company, National Geographic Adventure, Nature, ESPN, Fortune, the Huffington Post, and many others.

Terri Morrison has appeared on CNN, CNBC, Bloomberg, and repeatedly on NPR, and the BBC – and finally on The Global Exhibitor Podcast!

Be sure to listen to Part 1 of this interview with Terri Morrison.

www.kissboworshakehands.com

www.TerriMorrison.com

Terri Morrison Facebook

Twitter: @KissBowAuthor

Terri Morrison LinkedIn

Pavilions at the Dubai Airshow

Terri Morrison – Kiss, Bow or Shake Hands® (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Abu Dhabi, Age, Argentina, Asia, Authority, Best Practices, Brazil, Chile, Communications, Cuba, Culture, Dubai, Ecuador, Europe, Gender, Germany, Language, Latin America, London, Loose Time, Mexico, Middle East, Non-Verbal Communications, North America, Podcast, Precise Time, Puerto Rico, Relationships, Saudi Arabia, Time, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Verbal Communications

Communications, Body Language, & Authority

This is Part 1 of a two-part interview with Ms. Terri Morrison, known worldwide for her series of books called Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands® (co-authored by Wayne A. Conaway). Recently, Terri Morrison has been speaking at EXHIBITORLIVE in Las Vegas and focusing on the international aspects of the trade show industry, where she met-up with host Jeff Hannah.

Terri’s books have sold over 450,000 copies. Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands® has been translated into everything from Mandarin to Estonian, and is on INC. Magazine’s 7 Best Books on How to Negotiate.

Her new book Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands®: Courtrooms to Corporate Counsels was recently released and is available online from the American Bar Association.  Her clients include the American Bar Association, AT&T, Accenture, American Airlines, American Express… and many more!

Terri has been profiled and quoted in the Wall Street Journal, Asia Times, Investor’s Weekly, the Washington Post, Fast Company, National Geographic Adventure, Nature, ESPN, Fortune, the Huffington Post, and many others.

Terri Morrison has appeared on CNN, CNBC, Bloomberg, and repeatedly on NPR, and the BBC – and finally on The Global Exhibitor Podcast!

Be sure to listen to Part 2 of this interview with Terri Morrison.

www.kissboworshakehands.com

www.TerriMorrison.com

Terri Morrison Facebook

Twitter: @KissBowAuthor

Terri Morrison LinkedIn