The judging panel of BETA International 2018's prestigious Innovation Awards – leading industry accolades that reward new products possessing flair, creativity, cutting-edge technology and inspirational invention – has been announced.
Each judge is an expert in his or her own field and selected for their depth of knowledge and expertise. For the 2018 competition, those responsible for selecting winners for each of the award's eight categories are:
● Clare MacLeod – independent consultant equine nutritionist.
● Michelle Miller – master saddler and harness maker, and owner of M Miller Saddlery.
● Tracey Morley Jewkes – managing director of Blacks Vets and natural dog grooming product company Born to Bark.
● Wendy Beal – retail manager at R&R Country's store in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.
● Wendy Hofstee – vet and owner of equestrian holiday company Unicorn Trails.
● Allister Hood – celebrated show rider and producer, and winner of this year's HOYS Champion Cob on Our Cashel Blue.
“The Innovation Awards are an extremely important part of the show and have been the launch pad for many successful equestrian products,” said BETA International organiser Claire Thomas.
“Our judges play a crucial role in considering all aspects of the entries, including their commercial viability. Winning an award is a massive achievement for companies that have often invested heavily in the production of a product and we always make sure that we have the right people for the job.”
Sponsored by BETA International's official media partner, Equestrian Trade News, the Innovation Awards are designed to reflect the show's diverse range of exhibitors and feature the following categories: Country Clothing & Footwear, Feed & Supplements, General, Horsecare Equipment & (Horse) Clothing, Pet Products, Rider Clothing & Footwear, Saddlery & Tack and Safety & Security.
Judging takes place on Sunday 21 January and the winners are announced on the Fashion Show stage later that day as part of the show's special awards ceremony.
Talking Business, the red-hot industry debate, is set to raise temperatures at BETA International 2018 when its host, ITV newscaster Alastair Stewart, takes to the stage with a specially selected discussion panel of representatives from the equestrian – and commercial – worlds. Joining him this year are:
● Philip Tyler, managing director of TopSpec Equine, a leading producer of feed balancers.
● Roy Burek, chairman of Charles Owen and Airowear.
● Jo Snell, chief executive of Bransby Horses.
● Kathryn James, managing director of NEC Group Conventions & Exhibitions.
● Rhian Gibson, chief executive of the Pony Club.
“We have a fantastic line-up of panellists and we can't wait to see them under the spotlight, wrestling with the latest industry conundrums and topics,” said BETA International organiser Claire Thomas. “Each will bring their own experiences and views to the table, which is certain to make for another highly entertaining and thought-provoking instalment of Talking Business, back by popular demand for a third year.”
Talking Business will take place in The Charles Owen Hub on Sunday 21 January – the first day of the show.
BETA International is the world's leading trade fair for equestrian, country clothing, outdoor and pet products. The 2018 show takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK, from 21 to 23 January. Visitor entry is free on pre-registration at www.beta-int.com
