Neu Tool & Supply Corp., the New Berlin, Wis.-based tool distributor, hosted more than 200 attendees and 70 vendors at the 2014 Neu Tool Fair May 9 and 10 at the Brookfield Suites Convention Hall in Brookfield, Wis.
This year marks the second annual distributor-focused tool trade show. "Overall our actual results showed a 20 percent increase over last year’s sales," said Tim Neu, Sales Manager for Neu Tool & Supply Corp.
"The goal is to keep it completely distributor-focused," said Neu, of the Neu Tool Fair 2014. This format allows the distributors and vendors more one-on-one time to discuss business and products. This focus allows distributors to "have a name with us."
The company used to host a tool fair in the 1990s, allowing distributors to bring a select number of technician customers. The distributor-only format followed over the last two years allows a more personalized approach for distributors and vendors, said Neu.
Instead of hosting a number of product-specific training seminars, distributors were able to get a lot of one-on-one product training and information right at the booth, said Neu.
Neu Tool Fair provides tools and equipment from a number of vendors, including supporting product manufacturers like GearWrench (Apex Tool Group), Autel, Bosch (OTC and Robinair), Chicago Pneumatic, DeWalt, Grey Pneumatic, Ingersoll Rand, Makita, Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp., SK Hand Tools, Streamlight and Sunex Tools.
This year at the show Apex Tool Group hosted an informational meeting on its GearWrench Street Team initiative, a program that allows a distributor to partner with a known tool and equipment brand, in conjunction with his or her warehouse distributor, to sell and promote GearWrench products.
"Neu Tool will also have additional incentives for Street Team members," said Neu.
In addition to information meetings, promotions for attendees included cash back for orders placed and general discounts for products. The fair also featured a number of raffle prizes for attendees to win, including custom ATVs, a 50" LED HDTV, iPads, and an all-inclusive vacation package to a location of the winner's choice.
The two-day event wrapped up with a Saturday evening dinner reception, followed by a live band. Attendees and Neu Tool staff were on hand to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the company.
For information on Neu Tool & Supply Corp., call 262-432-9306, 855-NEU-TOOL or visit www.neutool.com.
