Navigating the Complexities of Industry Events: ASD Las Vegas

Attending industry events is crucial for sourcing officers and procurement professionals looking to find the right products, manufacturers, or importers. Recently, CPG participated in ASD with expectations of finding unique opportunities related to China sourcing at trade shows. While it had its challenges, there were valuable lessons that can help others prepare better for similar events. In this blog, we’ll break down the event, share insights on navigating large expos for China sourcing, and provide tips to maximize your time and sourcing efficiency.

Event Overview & Attendee Breakdown

ASD takes place twice a year in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is known for attracting a diverse range of exhibitors and buyers. ASD is especially valuable for companies that typically source products from China. With over 1,800 exhibitors covering categories like toys, home goods, general merchandise, and more, it’s easy for procurement teams to feel overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the event.

One of the key challenges we faced was navigating the vast number of booths effectively. For buyers, having a solid game plan is crucial, as the variety of products and vendors can quickly lead to information overload. This year, attendance numbers appeared lower than expected, which led some vendors—particularly those specializing in stock lots and closeout deals—to leave the event early. This highlights the importance of stock lots China sourcing strategies to ensure you capitalize on available opportunities.

Types of Products and Companies Present

ASD featured an impressive mix of products catering to a range of retail needs. There were options for low-cost, high-volume merchandise as well as more premium home goods and toys. A few standout companies included:

• Kole Imports & Closeouts: Known for offering high-quality closeout merchandise at competitive prices, Kole Imports showcased a diverse range of products suited for discount retailers.
• Bay Sales Inc.: Specializing in general merchandise, Bay Sales provides an extensive selection of home goods and seasonal items, making them an attractive option for businesses seeking to expand their product lines.

Value-Added: Business Solutions and Networking

Beyond physical products, ASD also served as a hub for discovering new business solutions and fostering professional relationships. Several vendors introduced procurement officers to tools and services aimed at improving supply chain efficiency, quality control, and vendor management.

Networking for China procurement was another key aspect of the event. Establishing relationships with manufacturers, wholesalers, and even service providers can lead to long-term benefits, whether it’s in the form of cost savings, improved service levels, or new business opportunities. We found that even with the lower attendance, the event still provided ample chances to engage in meaningful conversations and explore partnership opportunities.

Tips for China Sourcing Officers

1. Prioritize Quality over Quantity: Focus on the exhibitors and products that align with your specific needs. Doing so will help you avoid being overwhelmed and make better use of your time.
2. Timing is Critical: Arrive early and make sure you have a “Day 1 strategy” in place. This maximizes your chances of securing the best deals before vendors start packing up or reducing their offers.
3. Utilize Event Tools: Many events offer mobile apps and online platforms where you can view exhibitor lists, floor plans, and even set appointments. Take advantage of these tools to streamline your time on the ground.
4. Look for Business Solutions: Don’t overlook services that can help optimize your procurement and sourcing operations. Often, these solutions can lead to more sustainable cost reductions and operational improvements than finding a new product alone.

Key Takeaways

ASD can be a treasure trove of sourcing opportunities, but it requires a proactive and strategic approach to truly capitalize on its offerings. The ability to secure great deals on stock lots or closeout items makes it worthwhile, but only for those who are willing to plan ahead and navigate the event with precision.

It’s also worth exploring alternative events like the Las Vegas Market or MODEX, depending on your industry and specific sourcing requirements:

• Las Vegas Market: This event, taking place from January 26 to January 30, 2025, focuses more on home and lifestyle products and could be a better fit for those sourcing for these categories.
• MODEX: Scheduled for April 13 to April 16, 2026, in Atlanta, GA, MODEX is a leading trade show for supply chain and logistics professionals, offering more targeted networking and solution-finding opportunities.

Attending large expos can provide a mix of challenges and opportunities. For sourcing professionals, the key is preparation, timing, and focus. By planning ahead and knowing what to look for, you can ensure your time spent at events yields high returns, whether it’s securing stock at great prices or discovering new procurement solutions.

What strategies have you found most effective in ensuring event participation aligns with your sourcing goals?