Natural Products Expo East Showcases Mixed Bag of Fun
Posted September 28, 2021
We’re easing our way into my favorite season — trade show season — (thanks to Schitt’s Creek for the awards season joke) and Natural Products Expo East provided a little bit of everything for everyone. Philadelphia was the host city this time around, and attendees felt welcomed by a morning fun run around the vibrant city, morning yoga and nightly concerts, one of which is in my top five highlight roundup.
The Digable Planets, Ya Dig?
I’m a fan of ‘90s music, so this was a can’t-miss event for me. However, I walked into the Philadelphia Convention Center’s Grand Hall wondering how the juxtaposition of all-natural product trade show vendors and a ‘90s hip-hop concert was going to mix. And, just like the best trail mixes, this event was a tasty package of sweet and savory. Kicking off the concert with my free drink ticket, I was treated to passed hors d’oeuvres and a fresh, high-energy performance. It was a great way to end day two, and I got the vibe that it was an appreciated moment that organizers worked hard to put together.
Great Marketing Stands Out
Two standouts were my facial moisturizer giveaway from Acure (I may be typing with it on right now, don’t judge) and Maple Mountain’s Co-Packers dietary supplements that were the first available thing I grabbed next to the doors on day one. Acure’s ultra hydrating mask has the typical ingredients list on the back, but when you find the directions, that’s where you get a chuckle (see photo). Thanks to that message, I won’t forget the product when browsing in the store.
Energy, mood boosting and pick-me-ups were all major beverage themes at Expo East, and Maple Mountain hit the mark with Pre-Show Pick-Me-Up, During Show Energy and Hard Days Night Recovery beverage powders. Genius.
Relaxation Lounge Makes You Say Ahhh
Show attendees were treated to free massages in the Relaxation Lounge by the Lifestyle section of booths on the show floor. It was a welcomed surprise treat, and it didn’t disappoint. Another way organizers worked hard to provide appreciation for the in-person attendees.
Products that Make Me Learn Something New
This job allows me to learn something new every day. I tasted spreadable bacon jam, plant-based bacon and other plant-based products that I never thought in a million years I would love to the point I’m ready to make the switch completely. But, my favorite product at the show: Speka’s Original Cottage Cheese Bar. It was creamy; it was smooth; and I absolutely loved it (and I got to vote on the new Lemon Bar name, an added fun component of the booth). Bigger booths weren’t necessarily better at the Expo. Sometimes it’s the little things that go the furthest.
Zero Proof Alcohol that’s Award Worthy
2021 Expo East NEXTY Award winner Ritual Zero Proof had a fun booth filled with three showcased cocktails that made me forget there was no alcohol in them. They were tasty, and the bartenders and ambiance made us feel like we were a part of an actual bar. I truly believe no- and low-alcoholic products are going to hit the scene hard in the next year, and it’s something I never thought I’d see. But, after sipping the drink in my hand, seeing was believing.
Tags: Brightly Creative, Natural Products Expo East, NEXTY Awards, trade show
CATEGORY: Brightly Creative
