Summary
This podcast episode features Mitch Renfro, a third-generation member of Renfro Productions and Management, discussing the company's 70-year history in the consumer trade show industry. Mitch shares insights into the company's origins, its evolution, and its current operations. The conversation covers the family's legacy, the challenges and rewards of running consumer trade shows, and the impact of these events on outdoor enthusiasts and businesses. Key points include the company's focus on maintaining quality and consistency, adapting to changing times while preserving traditions, and the importance of relationships in the industry. Mitch emphasizes the company's role in connecting outdoor enthusiasts with businesses and promoting outdoor activities. The discussion also touches on the challenges of staying relevant in a digital age and the unique aspects of family-owned businesses in the outdoor industry.
Chapters
00:00:03 Introduction and background of Mitch Renfro
The host introduces Mitch Renfro as a third-generation member of Renfro Productions and Management. Mitch has been leading their sales department since 2015 and supports the team with marketing, advertising, and operations. The episode aims to explore the 70-year history of Renfro Productions, its impact on outdoor enthusiasts, and its evolution in the consumer trade show industry.
00:06:20 Overview of Renfro Productions and Management
Mitch Renfro explains that Renfro Productions runs and produces consumer trade shows, including the Indianapolis Boat Sport and Travel Show, Deer Turkey Waterfall Expo, and Fall Boat and RV Show. They rent buildings at fairgrounds, create floor plans, sell space to businesses, and then market the shows to attract attendees interested in outdoor activities.
00:12:04 Origin story of Renfro Productions
Mitch recounts how his grandfather acquired the show in 1963, despite having limited funds. The business started with a loan from a cheese curd vendor at the state fair. Mitch's grandmother joined the business in the early 70s, and together they ran the show with support staff.
00:18:52 Traditions and consistency in Renfro's shows
Mitch emphasizes that Renfro Productions strives to bring what people are looking for, maintaining traditions like being a family event and a cure for cabin fever. He highlights the generational aspect of both the business and attendees, with many families returning year after year.
00:36:38 Adapting to change while maintaining core values
Mitch discusses how Renfro Productions has managed to stay relevant by focusing on consistency and quality. He stresses the importance of maintaining their identity as a family-owned business that cares about exhibitors and attendees, while still being open to improvements and new ideas.
00:41:07 Impact on the outdoor industry and enthusiasts
Mitch explains how Renfro Productions impacts the outdoor industry by exposing people to outdoor activities, helping businesses connect with potential customers, and providing a platform for outdoor enthusiasts to plan their adventures. He mentions his grandfather's induction into the Fishing Hall of Fame as recognition of their contribution to the industry.
00:48:46 Future plans and vision for Renfro Productions
Mitch shares his belief that consumer trade shows will remain important as people seek face-to-face interactions and experiences. He emphasizes the value of personal connections in making decisions about outdoor activities and equipment purchases, suggesting that this will continue to be a strength for their shows in the future.
00:53:48 Personal satisfaction and driving factors
Mitch expresses that his greatest satisfaction comes from hearing how the shows have positively impacted businesses, especially small and family-owned ones. He values the relationships built with exhibitors and the role Renfro Productions plays in helping businesses grow and succeed.
Action Items
00:37:24 Mitch Renfro mentioned continuing to focus on maintaining quality and consistency in their shows.
00:49:51 Mitch Renfro suggested keeping an eye on the balance between digital marketing and the value of face-to-face interactions at shows.
00:56:51 Mitch Renfro emphasized the importance of listening to feedback from both exhibitors and attendees through surveys.
00:42:01 Mitch Renfro indicated plans to continue exploring ways to expose more people to outdoor activities through their shows.
00:39:42 Mitch Renfro mentioned the need to keep adapting and improving the show experience while staying true to their core identity.
