Top Four Trades of April 2025

As our clients continue to trade in May, it's time we reflect on the top trades in April! Barter continues to thrive as an alternative payment system. Through IMS, our clients have been able to connect with their brokers and other businesses at events like the Buffalo Spring Networking Dinner in Buffalo, NY, or found exclusive scrip and shopped unique offerings at our very first Midwest Spring Virtual Expo; a two-day event that first opened to Midwest clients, and then opened up to our clients nationwide to take part in the special event. Thanks to all who participated in these IMS activities!

Without further ado, let's learn more about the top 4 trades in April.

1. Trade Show Displays

Holding the top spot in our April trades, trade show displays are a fantastic way to spend your IMS trade dollars strategically. If your customers connect better in person with your business, you may want to consider investing in displays for trade shows. This physical, personal approach can increase your business's reach by displaying what you do to attendees. What will you need for the best trade show display you can put forward? Contact your broker to talk through your trade show plan! And don't forget to talk media for the remainder of 2025!

2. Catering

Need to entertain numerous guests at your business or networking event? Don't be remembered as the host who skimped on refreshments! There are so many flavors of catering you can choose from on IMS—Italian pastas, BBQ, Chinese food, sliders, and so much more in your market. It helps save time and reduce stress by eliminating the need to plan menus, cook, serve, and clean up. Caterers also offer professional presentation by supplying tableware and decorations. Dietary needs can be accommodated; folks with allergies, religious restrictions, and preferences like vegan or gluten-free diets can still enjoy the arrangements. A well-executed catering experience can leave a positive impression on guests or clients, making it a valuable choice for formal or professional gatherings. Your broker is happy to help you select the perfect spread for your event.

3. Awnings

Frame the windows of your business with awnings. They create a shade from the harsh sun over your establishment's doors and windows, much to the delight of your customers wishing to beat the heat or direct sunlight. Or maybe, you're looking for another way to display your brand to the outside world. This can be especially valuable for businesses with sidewalk seating and window displays, like restaurants, cafés, and storefronts of all kinds.

4. Personal Training

To run a business, you have to feel your best! Personal training with an instructor on IMS is a great way to temper your mind with the discipline to exercise and to ease you, knowing you're saving your vital cash by using trade dollars. Perhaps you offer your employees personal training sessions as an employee perk, that can possibly be coordinated using IMS! Let your broker know your interest, and a personal trainer can be found in your market!

Ready to leverage your trade dollars in May? Not sure what you need? Reach out to your broker, they're ready to support and understand the needs of your business as we move forward into May.