The SITL – short for “Salon International du Transport & Logistique” – brings together all the major players in the French transport and logistics industry every year. In March, the trade fair in Paris entered its next round – naturally with a strong VTG presence from our French colleagues!

But what is actually important for such a trade fair appearance? What does the preparation look like, what is the work like on site? We asked Patrick de Talhouet, Head of Market France!

Patrick, why did you decide to take part in this fair?

Patrick: This was only the third time that VTG has had a booth for the most important logistics fair in France. I was very happy about this decision as this key event allowed us to meet customers, prospects, RUs, and to show and explain them the full range of services that VTG has to offer.

Can you give us a insight into the preparations for the fair?

Patrick: As the trade fair only lasts three days and we want to talk to as many participants as possible on site, it is important to arrange appointments with customers in advance. It also helps to look at the exhibitor list and the agenda to get a feel for potential new customers you could meet.

In addition to our daily meetings with customers, we publicize our presence at the trade fair in advance with a banner in our emails and on LinkedIn. We also organize the logistics on site: booth decoration, fridge, coffee machine, catering. We also draw up a schedule so that at least two sales colleagues are always at our booth.

How can we imagine your work on site?

Patrick: On site, my sales colleagues and I rush from one appointment to the next. Between appointments, we stay at our stand and answer questions from visitors who are interested in what VTG has to offer. It’s also important that we always take the time to record the information we receive from customers for later.

Are there certain strategies for arousing the interest of potential new customers and partners?

Patrick: For prospects, it is key to adapt the sales pitch to the position of the person, the profile of the company and not to overwhelm the contact with too many questions. The goal is to build up the conditions for the very next steps: bringing additional information, eventually signing an NDA and meeting at the customer’s site.

Intermodal Innovation: VTG’s Presence at SITL Paris 

We caught up with Sébastien Lange, VTG’s Intermodal Market Expert, to delve into the significance of VTG’s participation at SITL Paris and the strategies employed to engage with industry players.

Sébastien, why is VTG’s presence at SITL Paris essential for the company?

Sébastien: The SITL Paris plays a pivotal role as a convergence point for the French transport sector. VTG’s booth is a crucial nexus for both nurturing existing client relationships and forging new connections within the industry.

Could you share insights into the strategies employed before and during the fair to maximize engagement with customers and prospects?

Sébastien: We prepared meticulously in the run-up to the event. Based on the exhibitor list, we identified potential customers and made appointments in advance. On site, we then had to find a balance between consecutive meetings and availability at the stand for inquiries from interested visitors.

Thank you both very much for the interview!

Watch the video for more insights into the exhibition halls in Paris:

Experience the highlights of VTG’s presence at SITL Paris! Witness Patrick de Talhouet as he presents VTG’s services, fostering invaluable connections. Discover the groundbreaking r2L solution, revolutionizing intermodal logistics. Plus, celebrate VTG’s triumph as the recipient of the “Innovation in Transport Logistics” award! Join us in commemorating VTG’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the transport and logistics realm.