4 Tips for a Productive PrimeTime

Twice a year, PrimeTime brings independent retailers, vendor partners, and the Nationwide Marketing Group team together for several jam-packed days of education, networking, exclusive offers, and growth opportunities for your business.  

We know it can be a lot to take in. Thankfully, with a little preparation ahead of time, you can navigate PrimeTime like a pro and fully enjoy the experience. 

Start with these four tips.

1. Get to Where You Need to Be

PrimeTime offers something for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you need to attend every session on the schedule to reap the benefits. Before you arrive, take a few minutes to map out your priorities so you can spend less time deciding what to do next and more time connecting, learning, and making the most of every day. 

Below are two steps to create a customized schedule that works for you and your current business needs. 

First: Review the Agenda and the NLA Course Catalog 

If you haven’t already, familiarize yourself with the full PrimeTime agenda and the Nationwide Learning Academy (NLA) course catalog for the upcoming show. 

CLICK HERE to view the current agenda. 

This master schedule includes dates, times, and locations for everything from keynote and mainstage sessions to industry-specific panels, peer-to-peer discussions, vendor presentations, and more. 

Second: Add Can’t-Miss Meetings to Your Calendar 

Once you know which sessions, meetings, and events you want to attend, we encourage you to create your own agenda by adding items directly to your calendar. This simple step helps you stay organized and efficient with your time — and it only takes a few seconds. 

From the online agenda (here), click the “Add To Calendar” icon next to any session. A pop-up window will then appear and allow you to choose your preferred calendar platform option. 

2. Strategize Your Savings

PrimeTime is your one-stop shop for vendor CashBack offers, show-exclusive specials, and limited-time, limited-quantity deals. To avoid the pressure of decision-making in the moment, why not arrive with a clear plan? 

Consider your needs for the next several months, including inventory gaps, seasonal consumer demand, and new category opportunities. And then, do the following: 

Review Palooza and HotShow Offers Ahead of Time 

This 90-minute buying frenzy only happens at PrimeTime, and the deals are unique to each event. And did you know we send a preview of the Palooza and HotShow offers the week ahead of PrimeTime? 

That’s right. We don’t want these time-sensitive deals to surprise you. Instead, we want you to browse the list ahead of time so you can check your inventory, do the math on margin, and consider upcoming promotional periods to determine what you actually need. 

Watch for the official Palooza and HotShow email before you travel so you can buy with confidence at the show. 

Review the Expo Floorplan and Mark Must-See Vendors 

Not only do we send out Palooza and HotShow deals ahead of time, but we also post an interactive map of the show floor on the PrimeTime website. Before you enter the expo hall, explore the map to see which vendors are attending and where to find them. 

Wandering the expo floor is an excellent way to discover new-to-you products and brands; however, walking in with a logistical idea of where you need to go will save you time and ensure you don’t miss key vendor partners. 

CLICK HERE to view the map.

3. Meet with Your NMG Rep On-Site

Connection at PrimeTime includes face-to-face time with your NMG representative, who will also be on site. Use this time to take a fresh look at your membership. Your rep can help you identify programs, services, vendor opportunities, and other resources that align with your unique business goals. 

Whether you want to save more money, maximize your marketing efforts, strengthen your digital performance, or explore other member benefits available to you, a quick check in can give you practical action steps to take before and after you return home. 

Come prepared with a few questions. What challenges are you trying to solve? What categories are you focused on? Which programs sound interesting? Be specific. Get curious. And don’t be afraid to try something new.

4. Download the App Before You Arrive

The PrimeTime app keeps important event information at your fingertips (literally) and available right when you need it. Download the app before you arrive to familiarize yourself with its features. From there, you can create a personal schedule, find meeting room locations, receive reminders, and more. 

Think of the app as your personal guide at PrimeTime. Having the right information accessible in one convenient place makes it easier to stay focused and have an enjoyable and productive experience. 

CLICK HERE to download the Attendee Mobile app.

Once you download the app, follow these instructions:

• Search "Nationwide Marketing Group"
• Click on "August 2026 PrimeTime"

Make PrimeTime Work for You 

A little planning before PrimeTime can make all the difference. 

If attending our bi-annual event and expo feels overwhelming or you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help you come prepared, stay connected, and leave with momentum that carries over into your everyday business operations back home. 

 

We hope to see you soon!