Some of the industry’s leading names gathered at NAEC Stoneleigh as BETA International unveiled plans for its move there next year during a special Exhibitor Open Afternoon.

More than 100 delegates were given a tour of the venue’s halls and facilities. There was also a presentation by the team who run the National Exhibition and Agricultural Centre (NAEC) Stoneleigh, followed by a question-and-answer session.

Show organiser Claire Thomas asked the group of existing and potential exhibitors what changes they would like to see at BETA International, which is owned and run by the commercial arm of the British Equestrian Trade Association.

Over lunch and refreshments, there was plenty of positive reaction to the show’s relocation, with delegates expressing confidence in BETA International’s organising team and their approval of Stoneleigh as a flexible and affordable venue.

“Today has been a fact-finding mission for our exhibitors and a wonderful opportunity for us to share our vision for the show,” said Claire. “We have invited comment, ideas and suggestions from Day One and are keen to hear from everyone involved.”

BETA International will move from the NEC, Birmingham, where it has been held for the past 26 years, to NAEC Stoneleigh for its 2021 show, which runs from 24 to 26 January.

Instead of three halls within an exhibition complex, it will take over the entire Stoneleigh Park site, making full use of its three large halls and 250 acres of parkland only a short distance from Coventry and conveniently located in the centre of the country, with Birmingham International Airport and road and rail networks close by. 

NAEC Stoneleigh will allow exhibitors to make use of indoor and outdoor areas, and include the hire of private areas for retailer training for the first time. Exhibiting at BETA International will remain affordable and accessible, with a fantastic range of cost-effective and money-saving stand packages available. Quality stands providing value for money and return on investment is key.

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For information about exhibiting at the show, please contact sales manager Darren Mottershead, email darrenm@beta-int.com or telephone +44 (0)1937 582111.

Comments on the future of BETA International can be emailed to Claire Thomas (clairet@beta-int.com), who will collate and present them to the BETA trade fair committee.