Having a day off

Plumbers work hard, but could taking a day off actually benefit your business? In this article, we examine why taking a day off to attend a trade exhibition could reap rewards.

Should I take a day off?

Many in the plumbing sector are ardent believers in the notion of getting your head down and working hard. It’s a tried and tested formula; and one which has been at the backbone of a number of amazing success stories. However, it’s also a formula that plumbers are often too scared to disrupt. In fact, by over emphasising the importance of being on-site every day, plumbers might be missing out on valuable off site business opportunities. One of the best places to find such opportunities is at organised trade shows and exhibitions, which regularly take place across the country.

Finding new products

There are a number of reasons why plumbers should consider taking a day away from site to attend an exhibition. One reason, is that exhibitions help plumbers stay up-to date with the latest technical innovations. It’s important for plumbers to stay informed, especially in a sector like this, which is so often disrupted by new technology. Exhibitions are a great place to discover new products, as companies often debut their latest products. What’s more, seeing a new piece of kit at a trade show gives you an opportunity to get hands-on with it and find out for yourself whether it would benefit your business.

Installer Show Organiser, Paul Clark, agrees: “One of the main appeals for our visitors is that the whole industry is under one roof. For Installer 2019 we had over 130 of the industry’s biggest manufacturers, from boilers and bathrooms, tools and trade essentials and everything in between. This gives installers the chance to catch up with the brands they already use, make new connections, and discover new technology that could add an arm to their business.

“It’s also a chance to get hands-on with the latest kit on the market. Heating engineers and plumbers are practical people, and they’ve told us they want to pick up a product, try it out, and see if it’s a good addition to their toolbox. Many exhibitors also bring exclusive show offers to trade events, so it’s a good way to stock up the van for less.”

Building your brand

As well as allowing you to get ahead of the pack with technological innovations, trade shows are a fantastic place to network with fellow industry professionals. In general, the only people who attend these exhibitions are involved in the trade, helping you to make worthwhile, fruitful relationships that could lead to business opportunities further down the line. Additionally, the people you meet at trade exhibitions are likely to have more spending power than those you meet on site, so you’re more likely to be able to have higher level discussions.

Speaking on the importance of attending trade shows, Mark Edginton, Event Director at PHEX, commented: “Exhibitions like PHEX are an ideal opportunity for you to keep up with all the important goings-on in the industry. With so many suppliers in one place, it’s the best way to learn about new innovations and technology. Informative seminars on a wide range of relevant industry topics will equip you with the information you need to improve your business and ensure you’re complying with the latest regulations. They are also a great excuse for a day off the tools, to meet up with likeminded tradespeople and take advantage of unique show offers and discounts.”

There are many reasons why plumbers might consider taking a day off the tools to attend an industry trade fair or exhibition. Whether it’s meeting fellow industry professionals who could help make your next big project a reality, or to get the latest lowdown on technology that could make your work easier, it’s important that you’re attending events regularly to ensure you’re getting the most from your business. Take some time to read about upcoming events in your area and find something that’s a good fit for you.

Photography credit: Installer2019, 7-9 May, Ricoh Arena Coventry