As a business owner who regularly sets up at outdoor events like festivals, fairs, and community markets, your event display is one of your most critical assets. A custom canopy not only shelters you from the elements but also serves as a key part of your branding, helping to draw in customers and make a lasting impression. Choosing the right vendor for your custom canopy and event displays is an important decision that can affect your setup’s appearance and success.
This guide breaks down the different types of vendors you can work with, including overseas manufacturers, local printers, large print-everything companies, and specialized canopy makers. By understanding the pros and cons of each, you can make an informed choice that best suits your business needs.
1. Buying from Overseas Manufacturers (China)
Many first-time buyers are tempted to order canopies directly from overseas manufacturers, especially from China, due to the lower price points. However, this option comes with several drawbacks that may not make it the best choice for your business.
Pros:
- Lower Cost: Sourcing canopies from China is typically the most affordable option.
Cons:
- Inconsistent Quality: You may encounter quality issues as standards can vary widely. Some manufacturers offer durable products, while others produce canopies that don’t meet the same level of reliability as those from U.S. based companies.
- Communication Barriers: Language differences and time zones can complicate communication, increasing the risk of miscommunication or errors in your order.
- Fire Certificate Concerns: Many events require a fire safety certificate for tents and canopies. Most overseas manufacturers issue invalid, fake, or no certificates at all, which could cause compliance problems at events.
- Warranty and Returns: Handling warranty claims or returns can be costly and difficult, with high shipping fees and potential miscommunication.
While the low upfront cost might be appealing, the potential headaches from quality control issues and complications with fire safety compliance may outweigh the savings.
2. Buying from a Local Printer
Local printers can also be a good option, especially if you already have an established relationship with them. Many local printers offer a wide variety of printed products and may branch out into custom canopies and event displays.
Pros:
- Personalized Service: You’ll likely receive personalized attention from a local printer who understands your brand and specific needs. Their goal is to ensure your product reflects your brand vision.
- Ease of Communication: Working with someone local allows for more direct communication, minimizing the risk of errors in the ordering process.
Cons:
- Limited Expertise: Most local printers specialize in things like T-shirts or vinyl printing, and while they can help you get canopies, they may not have the same expertise with the actual frame, fabric quality, and different options available.
- Moderate Quality and Higher Prices: Local printers typically source the entire job from trade-only printers, including the frame and printing. This results in a product that is of average quality but still priced higher due to additional markups.
Working with a local printer can be a convenient choice, but the quality may not be top-tier, and you may end up paying a premium for a product that isn’t as durable as other options.
3. Buying from Large Print-Everything Companies
Many large-scale printing companies have started offering custom canopies as an add-on to their other services. These businesses print everything from business cards to banners and now include canopies in their product offerings.
Pros:
- Affordable Pricing: Prices are often similar to those of local printers since many of these companies also source their frames from China and print the fabric in the U.S.
- One-Stop Shopping: Adding a custom canopy to your order can be convenient if you’re already purchasing other printed materials from them.
Cons:
- Lack of Specialization: Since these companies typically focus on mass printing rather than event displays, the quality of the canopies may not be as high as products from a specialized canopy manufacturer.
- Impersonal Service: You’re less likely to receive the personalized customer support you might get from a smaller business or local printer. The customer service team may not have detailed knowledge of canopy products, limiting the advice they can provide.
While large print-everything companies can offer competitive pricing, their lack of focus on canopies means you may be sacrificing quality for convenience.
4. Buying from a Reputable Name-Brand Canopy Company
The best option for most business owners is to work with a specialized canopy company that focuses exclusively on event displays. These companies have the expertise and industry knowledge to provide high-quality, durable products designed specifically for outdoor events.
Pros:
- Premium Quality: Name-brand canopy companies, like Exhibit Supply, are known for offering sturdy frames, water-resistant materials, and UV protection, ensuring that your canopy performs well in various weather conditions.
- Fire Safety Compliance: Legitimate fire certifications are critical for compliance at outdoor events. Reputable companies provide certified products that meet fire safety standards, helping you avoid fines or disqualification from events.
- Dedicated Customer Service: These companies have dedicated customer service teams trained specifically in their canopy products, offering expert guidance on customization, setup, and care.
- Long-Term Durability: While you may pay more upfront, the investment pays off over time. High-quality canopies last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and delivering better value in the long run.
Cons:
- Slightly Higher Upfront Costs: The cost is typically higher than some alternatives, but the durability and quality more than justify the investment.
For business owners who prefer to maintain their relationship with a local printer, you can request that the printer set up a reseller account with a reputable canopy manufacturer. This way, you benefit from high-quality products while keeping the convenience and familiarity of working with a trusted local partner.
Why Quality Matters in the Long Run
Quality is paramount when making a purchase that directly impacts your brand. A canopy that tears, fades, or collapses during an event can reflect poorly on your business and result in lost customers. In contrast, a well-designed, durable canopy not only protects you and your products but also reinforces your brand identity and professionalism.
According to the Small Business Trends report, 70% of consumers are more likely to engage with a brand they recognize. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a professional and consistent brand image across all touchpoints, including your event display. A high-quality, well-branded canopy and event display leave a lasting impression on your audience, helping to build brand loyalty and increase sales.
Statistics on the Benefits of Custom Branded Canopies
- Increased Brand Visibility: A well-branded canopy can increase your brand’s visibility at events by as much as 300%, drawing more attention and foot traffic to your booth.
- Higher Customer Engagement: Businesses with custom branded canopies are 60% more likely to engage with potential customers compared to those using generic or lower-quality displays.
- Long-Term ROI: Investing in a high-quality canopy pays off in the long run. Businesses that choose premium-grade canopies report a 30% higher return on investment over three years due to fewer replacements and increased customer engagement.
Conclusion: Exhibit Supply Offers the Best Value
Among the top brands, Exhibit Supply stands out as a leader in providing premium custom canopies for outdoor events. Known for offering exceptional value, Exhibit Supply combines quality, durability, and affordability. Unlike large print-everything companies that lack specialization, Exhibit Supply focuses exclusively on custom canopies and event displays, ensuring that you receive a product designed to perform at the highest level.
Whether you choose to buy directly from the company or work through a trusted distributor, selecting a reputable company like Exhibit Supply guarantees that you’ll receive a high-quality product backed by knowledgeable customer service and legitimate fire safety certifications. When it comes to representing your brand at outdoor events, the best decision you can make is to invest in a reliable, professionally branded canopy.
