Hundreds of pet product manufacturers have confirmed there is only one place to be this September…and that’s exhibiting at PATS Telford.
The showpiece event, taking place on Sunday, September 23, and Monday, September 24, will be packed solid with more than 200 leading firms eager to exhibit their products and services to visiting UK and international buyers.
The mood amongst the exhibitors is one of eager anticipation as the biggest-ever PATS Telford moves closer.
Jo Amit of HOWND, summed it up by saying: “PATS Telford means business! We look forward at HOWND every year to the show. It is the perfect platform to launch new products and meet customers face to face. We’ve seen an increase in visitors to our stand from overseas, which is testament to show’s growing popularity. We’re launching our first range of vegetarian hemp treats and a new product designed for dog groomers and are very excited to see the reaction at Telford.”
It’s a view shared by Katie Goldsmith, of Collarways, and Suzanne Rothman, of Pet Munchies. Katie said: “PATS Telford is a great way to showcase our new products, as well as meet existing and new customers, and network with other suppliers. We always enjoy the atmosphere from build-up to breakdown and it is a highlight of our year."
And Suzanne added: “PATS attracts such a wide variety of quality buyers and retailers, and is the perfect opportunity to bring on board new business. We are so excited that we will also be showcasing new products for all to see at Telford.”
Inspired Pet Nutrition, under the Wagg brand, were the first company to book a stand with PATS when the exhibition launched in 2009, and have been exhibiting ever since. Trade Sales Director Ben Anderson said: “At IPN we believe in the concept of a trade show – how else can you fully display your entire range of products to your customers under one roof?
“The PATS team are experienced, knowledgeable, approachable and go out of their way to ensure the show is a success each and every year. We’re looking forward to another successful 10 years and thanks to all the team at PATS for their hard work in organising such a well run trade show.”
So why should buyers from pet stores and garden centres attend this year’s PATS Telford? Here’s what visitors can expect:
- More than 200 exhibitors including a record numbers of newcomers – 63 in total
- All the latest pet product launches under one roof
- Informative talks from leading experts from across the industry
- Top class demonstrations from groomers
- Unrivalled show offers and competitions
One of the major successes at PATS shows over the years has been the New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews. Last year at Telford a record number of new products – over 300 in total – were on show in the designated area. From all the entries, a panel of independent retailers will decide the winners of the prestigious New Product Awards, which will be presented at the PetQuip Awards Dinner on the Sunday evening.
Visitors will also be able to listen to talks from prominent industry figures and witness demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers.
Renowned pet marketeer J.Nichole Smith will be a keynote speaker on both days of the show, and she said: “Most of my work is in the States, so I love the opportunity to get to know pet brands in the UK. Last time I spoke at PATS the sessions were totally packed – standing room only - and that's a great feeling. I met some wonderful entrepreneurs, and I can't wait to come back!”
The grooming programme, in association with British Dog Groomers' Association and The Welsh Grooming Academy, 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.
“Myself and other members of BDGA are really looking forward to delivering two days of interactive demos/seminars at PATS Telford this year,”
said Mathew Spry, acting chairman of BDGA. “This exhibition is one of the most enjoyable events out there. A welcoming environment with new products, free samples and an opportunity to network and learn is always a great day out in my book.”
Parking is free at the Telford International Centre, and everyone will receive free tea and coffee, and a free show catalogue.
PATS Telford is definitely THE place to be this September 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.
