How could we improve the Roadshow?
Or more particularly, what 'added value' could we build in to guarantee getting paid by event organisers?
We are very proud of our Roadshow and visitors love it but we rarely get paid the full cost of operating. Despite some subsidy from the club, it costs roadhow team individuals a lot of money to attend.
What could we do to get paid by the show organisers bearing in mind that they rarely pay any exhibitor to come every year, maybe one year in 3 and we would like to attend every year?
First, some thoughts on pricing to shows:-
Agree to attend the following year for free if they pay us in full for one year (BOGOF)
Always charge a fixed (club subsidised) fee that seems good value to them eg £250
As 2 above but 2 prices, one for a "full" Roadshow, one for a "trimmed down" show.
Only go to shows that pay the full operating cost
Some thoughts on "added value" that shows would be happy to pay for:-
Scenic the layout (but would we then just look like every other layout)
Tell a 'story' with sequenced operation and amplified PA maybe with TV screen eg
tell the story of "History of Speed on ECML"
tell the story of "Mallards Record Run"
tell the story of "Hornby" and in particular OOLS launch, demise and legacy
Keep coming up with 'Publicity Stunts' like the Mallard Speed Challenge to attract TV
An expanded "Have a Go" for youngsters integrating 12v/DCC with Live Steam maybe shunting a train of wagons/ coaches for an OOLS loco to come and 'take to main line'.
Some thoughts on how to convince show organisers to book us and pay for us
Make a promo video for youtube aimed at show organisers
Get visitors to fill in a 'quick questionnaire' as evidence of visitors' enjoyment
Send organisers photos of our busy stand
Are there any ideas out there?
Earth calling to anyone?
You have to prove to organisers your uniqueness, also how popular and engaged you are with the punters. So log the number of kids (who will be the next generation of enthusiasts) test driving the trains, the number of locos you look at and mend over the 2 days (it shows that people have come especially to see you) and the average number of people viewing per hour.
Maybe a promotional page on the website, with facts, figures, photos and video.
Don't underestimate scenery, it's eye candy, it takes people to a different time and place, it stirs the imagination. Who doesn't like watching a loco with a full rake speeding over a viaduct, or thundering through a station, and kids like to spot little things.