The UK’s No 1 pet trade exhibition, taking place at Telford International Centre on Sunday and Monday, September 27-28, promises to be a spectacular event with a record number of over 180 companies exhibiting their new products.

And the talks by prominent industry figures, produced in association with Pedigree Wholesale, look set to keep visitors entertained and informed throughout both days of the show.

The free-to-attend series of seminars will cover a wide range of topics including: retailing RAW pet foods; using social media to build a loyal customer base; your ultimate guide to independent success; getting more online visitors to your website; helping your customers’ pets get back in shape; and giving retailers something to chirp, shriek and warble about.

There will also be a chance to earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points for those people attending a special seminar by animal healthcare specialists Merial. The CPD points will go towards the ongoing development of Suitably Qualified People (SQP) working in the pet industry.

“One of the easiest ways to discover new ideas that could help boost your business is to attend the free seminars at PATS,” said organiser Annie Foord.

“If there’s a subject that catches your eye then make a mental note of the time or write it down in your diary so you don’t miss it.

“Most seminars last half-an-hour so there’s no time to become bored. In fact, because of the time limit, there’s a lot of information packed into such a short session and often it’s a good idea to take notes or write down bullet points. Usually, the speaker will take questions at the end of the talk.”

As well as the free programme of seminars there will be so much more to see on the exhibitor stands packing the exhibition hall at Telford.

One of the show’s most popular features is the New Product Showcase, which sees an increasing numbers of entries each year. Early indications suggest the trend will continue at Telford, and as a result the Showcase will have a huge presence at the exhibition.

Visitors will also be able to witness demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers.

Parking is free at the Telford International Centre, and everyone will receive free tea and coffee, and a free show catalogue. Visitors will also be able to relax and chat further with exhibitors at a free drinks reception once the show closes on Day One.

Visitors are now being urged to register for free show entry by going online at www.patshow.co.uk.

The full PATS Telford Seminar Line-Up

Sunday, September 27

10.00-10.30

Your ultimate guide to independent success

Julie Conway, National Membership Manager, BIRA

10.40-11.10

Shopper Marketing for Growth Opportunities

Christopher Chew, Royal Canin

11.20-12.20

Why Pet Health Care is important to your business – CPD accredited

Frontline Spot On team, Merial Animal Health

12.30-13.00

Using social media to build a loyal customer following

Richard Rockett, Burgess Petcare

13.10-13.40

Retailing raw pet foods

Craig Taylor, Natures Menu

13.50-14.20

Giving retailers something to chirp, shriek and warble about

Lorron Bright, Bucktons

14.30-15.00

eCommerce: Get more online visitors, optimizing your website for Google in 2015

Nathan Stevens, Intelligent Retail

15.10-15.40

Urinary health for cats

Fiona Marjoram, Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Monday, September 28

10.10-10.40

eCommerce: Get more online visitors, optimizing your website for Google in 2015

Nathan Stevens, Intelligent Retail

10.50-11.20

Why Pet Health Care is important to your business – CPD accredited

Frontline Spot On team, Merial Animal Health

12.00-12.30

Urinary health for cats

Fiona Marjoram, Hill’s Pet Nutrition

12.40-13.10

What are customers saying about your pet business online

Maximilian von Garnie, Yelp Deutschland

13.20-13.50

The vets view on raw feeding

Dr Claire Miller, Natures Menu

14.00-14.30

Shopper Marketing for Growth Opportunities