A total of 1,861 visitors attended this year’s PATS Sandown – a similar figure to last year (1,859) – as the pet trade experienced two highly successful days of business activity.

Despite the closeness of Easter this year, retailers and buyers turned out in force to discover hundreds of new products being launched at the show.

The New Product Showcase was a busy area throughout the event, and retailers admitted they were spoiled for choice as they decided on which items to stock in their stores for the year ahead.

“We were impressed with the selection of new products,” said Tony Sharpe, of Pets Korner in Lincolnshire. “The trend is definitely for natural foods, which can only be a good thing for the health of the animals.

“For us the show is a great way to talk to our suppliers face-to-face, which helps to build a good relationship with them. It’s a chance to catch up with everyone in a fun, social environment.”



Steve Fowler, Managing Director of PamPurredPets, remarked: “I always attend PATS Sandown as it gives me the chance to consider new line opportunities and get questions answered immediately. It’s also fantastic for touching base with many of our suppliers.”

And Unique Pets, an independent shop in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, commented: “We can’t wait to launch the exciting new products and food we saw at PATS Sandown.”

Another independent retailer, Destination Pets in Northamptonshire, added: “After our visit to PATS we’ve got an exciting few months ahead with lots of new products to fill our store.”

PATS Sandown also attracted a large number of buyers from the pet departments of garden centres.

Ben Williams, pet buyer at Dobbies Garden Centres, said: “PATS Sandown is a must-visit event for me. It’s an opportunity to see all the new launches under one roof and talk to important people in the industry.”

And Elliot Mair, of Raemoir Garden Centre in Scotland, flew down from Aberdeen to visit the show. “PATS is such an important event for us. It’s essential that we visit. It’s by far the best place to see everything that’s new in the pet industry.”



The positive mood was echoed by exhibitors with Beco Pets co-founder Toby Massey admitting: “We've been really pleased with the response from retailers, who were very enthusiastic about our new food, and trading has been brisk. They especially like the fact that it's ethically and locally sourced. The next few weeks are going to be very busy for us following up enquiries. We're already looking forward to the next PATS in Telford in six months' time.”



Pet Rebellion doubled the size of its PATS Sandown stand this year and it paid off in a big way. Ray Foard said: “We’re delighted with the response from retailers. It has definitely been one of the best shows I’ve experienced in my time in the pet industry.”

McAdams Pet Foods were newcomers to PATS and Neil McAdam said: “This show has certainly helped to widen our reach to the retail network.”

Kevin Milner Countryside Greeting Cards were also new to the show with Kevin reporting: “I’m really encouraged by the number of leads I’ve generated and delighted with my decision to exhibit.”

PATS Telford takes place September 25-262016, and full details can be found at www.patshow.co.uk