56 What is the main purpose of your business? The primary goal of Xpofairs is to revolutionise the trade show industry, much like e-commerce transformed brick-and-mortar retail. We aim to offer greater choice and convenience at a fraction of the cost. The first trade show was is 1851 – the world of trade show today hasn’t moved on. We are removing the geographical and financial constraints of traditional trade shows, we enable more companies to exhibit, providing a wider variety of options. Attendees can engage with the latest innovations from anywhere, at any time, ensuring unparalleled convenience. Additionally, by eliminating the major costs associated with traditional trade shows—such as space, stands, carpet, electrics, shipping, insurance, travel etc. – we make it possible for anyone to participate at a significantly lower expense. We know we can’t replicate the inperson experience of traditional trade shows. That’s why we believe traditional trade shows will continue to thrive for a long time, they still have a role to play. Nonetheless, there are many people who would like to participate in or attend trade shows but are unable or unwilling to do so. We are here for them. What challenges have you overcome since the show’s launch? I think we have faced two main challenges. The first is people’s apprehension to be the first to try something new. Everyone we’ve shown has loved the look of our show and supports our vision to reinvent trade shows. Yet, there’s always that hesitation about being the first. However, as we’ve gained more participants, it’s become easier to convince others to join. We often tell people that you can’t wait for others to make the change you want to see. We must be the change ourselves. We’ve been fortunate to have wonderful, entrepreneurial early adopters who have been incredibly supportive and insightful. The other question we get a lot is about the inability to feel and see products in real life. Interestingly, this concern usually comes from exhibitors, not buyers, who seem unbothered by it. This reminds me of the early days of online retail. Initially, many people doubted it, believing you couldn’t buy things such as food or clothes without seeing them in person. Those who hesitated lost out, while those who embraced the change found success. Similarly, we believe that the trade show experience can evolve, and those willing to adapt will reap the rewards. Can you give us an extensive overview of how your company services the gift industry? Central to our vision is democratising trade shows: ensuring that everyone – from fresh start-ups and independent designers to big corporations – gets the same chance to be seen. It’s not about who has the loudest voice or the biggest marketing budget. That’s why everyone gets the same size stand at the same fixed flat fee. This approach is not only fairer but also ensures that the best products shine. By levelling the playing field, we promote innovation and quality, ultimately leading to a better industry for all. We believe that when the best products win, everyone benefits, and the entire trade show experience is enriched. In short, we offer the industry a revolutionary way to source products for their stores and to access buyers. What sets you apart from your competitors? Most people will hear “online trade show” and think “I’ve tried those before”, and they were complicated, ineffective and were not as good as traditional tradeshows. What makes us different is that it is an online trade show that actually works! Our
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