I received an email from one of our advertisers in GIFT SHOP Magazine sharing her success at the Boston Gift Show as an exhibitor. It was interesting timing because I have been discussing the importance of regional trade shows with retailers and vendors over the last few weeks and some retailers have shared their concerns over a decreased number of exhibitors.

I think it's a shame because so many of the local shows have a regional appeal—local vendors with unusual products not found at our national shows (the lack of travel expenses doesn't hurt either). Seems to me it's worth the trip even if a retailer only finds a handful of new products to carry.

I'd love to hear from vendors, retailers or show management companies on their perspective of the role of the regional gift show.