With just over a week to go before PATS 2024 opens its doors, the final preparations are being made for what will be the biggest show so far in the event’s 15-year history.
The Pet & Aquatics Trade Show takes place over three days for the first time from Sunday 29th September to Tuesday, 1st October and visitors can expect to find more new products than ever from a record number of over 340 exhibitors.
Retailers and buyers will also have the opportunity to take advantage of an impressive number of show offers, and discover trade secrets from leading figures in the grooming world.
“There has been a tremendous amount of work going on behind the scenes to make sure that PATS delivers the widest range of exhibitors, new products and professional grooming demonstrations,” said show director Gordon Thomas.
“Visitor numbers have been growing rapidly over the years and we’re confident the trend will continue this year. There is so much to see and do – plus more time to do it – and everyone can rest assured they will be given a warm and friendly reception. We can’t wait to greet everyone.”
The addition of the Aquatics Zone – a dedicated area for aquatics, reptile and watergardening exhibitors in Hall 1A – is sure to be a popular destination for specialist retailers and buyers.
The New Starter Zone, supported by PetQuip with media partner PPM, has also been one of the most exciting additions to the show in recent years, with over 32 start-up companies taking advantage of the dedicated area in Hall 3 to launch their product ranges.
Regular exhibitor Hertford Shelving has seen PATS grow and develop over the years and the company’s Steve Lodge admits he’s more excited than ever by the prospect of this year’s show. He said: “PATS promises to be a great event for the pet industry. The move to a three-day show is very welcome as it gives exhibitors and visitors more time to spend with each other. And with the addition of the Aquatics Zone, visitors are getting two shows in one. It’s a win, win for everyone.”
EzyDog is another regular exhibitor at PATS and director Guy Ellis said: “PATS is a fantastic event as it provides us with an ideal opportunity to showcase our range – we get a lot of traction from the show. Visitors are always keen to talk to us and look at our vast range of products.”
And Marie-Louise McKenna, marketing executive at Frozzys, added: “We are eagerly anticipating the PATS 2024 three-day event. This annual gathering provides an exceptional platform for us to showcase our range and introduce exciting new products to the market. We look forward to reconnecting with colleagues and welcoming new customers from near and far.”
So why should buyers from pet stores and garden centres attend this year’s PATS? Here’s what visitors can expect:
- The biggest ever New Product Showcase and Awards, with over 420 entries to date
- Dedicated Aquatics Zone for aquatics, reptile and watergardening specialists
- New Starter Zone for start-ups and new businesses
- Unrivalled show offers and competitions
- Grooming Workshop including insightful demonstrations, competitions and talks
- Unique networking opportunities
- Free entry, free show catalogue, free parking for up to 1,300 cars and a complimentary tea/coffee voucher.
One of the major successes at PATS shows over the years has been the New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews. Over 420 new products will be on show in three designated areas, and from all the entries, a panel of independent retailers will decide the winners of the prestigious New Product Awards.
The Grooming Workshop, in association with For All DogKind, will include some of the country’s leading groomers. The demonstrations will highlight the knowledge and expertise required to complete traditional grooming techniques successfully as well as showing off a few modern and creative ideas as well.
Leading trade association PetQuip, which has been working with PATS to attract international pet retail chains and distributors to the Autumn showpiece, will be staging its prestigious PetQuip Awards after the second day of the exhibition. Reflecting the dynamism of the UK petcare sector, the annual awards recognise and reward the energy, achievement and innovation realised within the pet trade over the past year.
PATS is definitely THE place to be this Autumn so make sure you register for free entry to the show at www.patshow.co.uk where you’ll also find a full list of exhibitors.
Opening times
Sunday, 29th September 2024: 9.30am-5pm
Monday, 30th September 2024: 9.30am-5pm
Tuesday, 1st October 2024: 9.30am-4pm
