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EQL Provides Ease for Exclusive Launches at DesignerCon
EQL is known for its online launch technology, but it’s also the perfect solution for exclusive or limited-edition launches at events. Read how EQL’s tech was applied to power launches for DesignerCon 2024.
DesignerCon is the ultimate destination for art, toys, and collectible enthusiasts, bringing together creators, brands, and fans from around the globe to celebrate creativity and innovation.
In 2024, EQL proudly partnered with DesignerCon as the official launch platform, helping facilitate over 20 exclusive product drops for nine iconic brands, including Aku, How2Work, Unbox, Medicom, King Saladeen, Futura, Retro Toy Shop, Headlock Studio, and 3D Retro.
This partnership showcased how EQL can enhance fan experiences and streamline product launches for live events, ensuring fairness, convenience, and excitement.
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The Challenge
The organizers of DesignerCon faced a familiar challenge for many in the events space: managing the chaos and inefficiencies of exclusive product launches at a high-profile event. In previous years, fans endured long lines for both entry and pickups, often leading to frustration and unequal access to coveted items. DesignerCon 2024 needed a solution that would:
- Minimize long queues and crowding.
- Create a fairer way for fans to access exclusive products.
- Provide a smooth, scalable solution for participating brands.
We really wanted a solution that would help us make the launch experience more enjoyable for everyone at the event and give fans more time to explore the expo. We are happy to have found that with EQL.
Kevin Cao, Co-Organizer, DesignerCon
The Fix
EQL provided a system tailored to meet DesignerCon’s needs. Here’s how it worked:
- Tools that allowed brands to customize their launch experiences: With EQL, brands were able to select how they wished to launch and who could access the launch. For example, some chose to enable geolocation so only fans at the event could score a win, while others made their launches open to event attendees and those interested online. Some brands also decided to use EQL’s audience features to upweight their known VIPs. Brands also chose to keep their launches open for different windows of time, depending on their strategy.
Each brand that launched with EQL displayed a QR code at their booth allowing fans to easily scan and enter, and giving them more time to explore the show. - Fair Selection: EQL’s platform handled fan entries, using our world-class Run Fair® technology to get rid of any bots and bad actors and ensure fairness.
- Streamlined Pickup Process: Fans who were selected received an email with a designated pickup window, eliminating the need to wait in line and reducing event-day stress. Some brands also chose the option to ship products to selected fans after the event was over, saving them the hassle of keeping inventory on-site.
Dan Willet of Unbox Industries had the following to say about the process:
It was fantastic. A very seamless process and we sold through. There was lots of excitement and anticipation and everyone was really happy.
Dan Willet, Unbox Industries
The Outcome
EQL’s partnership with DesignerCon delivered measurable success:
1. Streamlined Entries: Thousands of fans participated in the launches, creating a buzz around the event’s exclusives.
2. Happier Fans: The QR code and pickup system eliminated the need for queueing, enhancing the overall event experience.
3. Fairer Access: Fans rated the system highly for its fairness and ease of use, solidifying EQL’s reputation as the go-to platform for exclusive drops.
DesignerCon 2024 proved that with the right technology, high-demand product launches don’t have to come with chaos. Together, EQL and DesignerCon set a new standard for fan engagement and event management, ensuring that everyone—from brands to fans—could enjoy the magic of exclusive launches without the hassle.
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