Why did you start Target in 1?
I had always wanted to run my own company and the opportunity arose after working with a friend who had a number of years’ experience within the exhibition field. With my Sales and Marketing background and Mark Dunn’s knowledge of exhibitions, it was the perfect partnership. After a number of months’ planning, Target in 1 Limited was incorporated in July 2013 and started trading in November of the same year. In March 2015, Target in 1 won Gatwick Diamond New Business of the Year.
What is your background?
My background has, except for two years living in Milan, been within the publishing arena. My first field sales role was at Johnston Press, where I was fortunate enough to have quality sales training which prepared me for the fast-paced, highly target-driven role. It was then that I realised how much I enjoyed seeing clients face-to-face and being out on the road. Working for the newspaper has without question given me the basics I have needed in most of my working life and has cemented my passion for sales and marketing.
Describe what Target does and what makes the company different?
Target in 1 Limited is essentially a print and exhibition stand designer and supplier but with a difference. Our hire kit allows us to create stands for our clients which can be completely adapted, depending on the event, location and stand size. The client can look impressive, without the hefty purchase-price tag. The panels can be used time and time again to create different structures, keeping the interest for the client and stand visitors.
The customer is at the forefront of everything we do. We tailor the service to suit the needs of each individual client and will, in some cases, source, create or design something completely bespoke for an exhibition stand. Target in 1 take care of all the logistics and will set up and break down the stand, leaving the customer free to focus on their team and the exhibition.
Jay Hine from Optima Systems said: “Target in 1 take the hassle and pain out of exhibiting. We were new to exhibiting, but Target in 1 made our stand look professional and made the entire experience a breeze. I cannot recommend them highly enough.”
Why did you diversify into organising exhibitions?
I am a strong believer in face-to-face networking. For me, first impressions are everything, and it is so much easier to leave a lasting impression than after a telephone conversation. As a stand supplier, we believe that exhibitions are one of the most targeted and successful ways of meeting prospective clients. It is also the part of my job that I enjoy the most. Target in 1 Limited has seen both sides of an exhibition, from working with clients on their stand to exhibiting ourselves to promote our own brand. We believe that we can use this knowledge to create a Business Exhibition which will be well organised and will offer local businesses the opportunity to find new, quality business leads.
Why are you launching an expo in the Gatwick Diamond, and why partner with gdb?
I have always (apart from two years) lived and worked within the local area and saw a gap in the market where we felt an exhibition was needed, and so we created the Target Business Expo. After our first event in Dorking, Surrey, we had been looking for venues in Gatwick and Crawley as we felt there was a strong need for an exhibition of this type in the area. After speaking with a number of local businesses, we agreed there was a definite need. As a Gatwick Diamond Member I knew that we wanted to work with the gdb team on this event. With our exhibition experience and gdb’s events and networking knowledge, I knew that we would work well together and have all bases covered. For us it is about creating a business event that would off er quality seminars and networking alongside the exhibition, and that is what gdb do best.
What can visitors expect on the day?
You will be able to start off the day with the gdb Networking Breakfast before the exhibition doors open. Visitors can start conversations and gain leads whilst enjoying coffee and breakfast. The main doors to the expo open at 10am and you will be able to visit over 150 stands offering services, advice, new products and much more. A schedule of free seminars will run throughout the day and there is no need to book these; just take a seat and enjoy. The gdb Speakers Conference will offer delegates the opportunity to hear from three professional speakers: Lara Morgan, speaking on Business and Entrepreneurship, Geoff Meade, speaking on Europe and the Eu and Rt Hon Lord Andrew Adonis, speaking on Transport and Infrastructure. Tickets to the Networking Breakfast and gdb Speakers Conference can be purchased in advance through the event website.
Why should businesses exhibit?
If you are looking to do business within the Gatwick Diamond, there is truly no better place for you to be. You will undoubtedly gain more leads and make more connections on this one day than you could on the road or on the telephone. Stand prices start at just £185.00 + vat to make it more affordable for small businesses as well as large.
