Winning a New Product Award at PATS Sandown, the UK’s Spring pet industry exhibition, can have a tremendous impact on the fortunes of an exhibitor. It can help turn a new launch into a bestselling item in pet stores around the country and clinch that all-important export deal.
One of the main reasons why the Award is held in such high esteem is the fact it is decided by a panel of independent retailers, who know what it takes for a product to fly off the shelves.
Entries for the New Product Showcase and Awards at PATS Sandown, which takes place on 26-27 March 2023 are starting to flood in as exhibitors get ready to showcase their latest launches to retailers and buyers from the UK and abroad.
The New Product Showcase and Awards are sponsored by pbwnews.
Here two companies who triumphed in the New Product Awards at PATS Sandown in 2022 reveal what the accolade has done for their business.
Case Study No 1
Mealberry GmbH – Winner of Small Animal and Bird Product Award with Little One Starter Set
How did you react to winning a New Product Award at PATS Sandown?
I think everyone who enters products in the contest secretly hopes to win, but when your name is called and your product has actually convinced the experts and judges it is a very rewarding feeling. It gives you the confidence and confirmation that your knowledge and product development are right for the market.
Has the award helped your business?
Yes, it has created brand awareness – a lot of people who had not heard of Mealberry know us now. It is also an independent confirmation that it is a great product, which is reassuring to the customers and helps them to make the purchase decision.
How did you use the win to promote the product?
We used it in our marketing and event communication. It is also handy in all other markets we operate in. Everyone knows the UK has a strong market when it comes to the pet industry and this makes the impact even greater. We are very grateful to have won and it motivates us to continue to innovate and develop.
Case Study No 2
Sharples Pet – Winner of Dog Accessories and Toys Award with LickiMat UFO
How did you react to winning a New Product Award at PATS Sandown?
We were delighted to win the New Product Award. The whole team were really excited about it.
Has the award helped your business?
Yes, as it is a well recognised and respected award in the pet trade, so winning the award is a big stamp of approval. It has certainly helped raise the profile of the UFO.
How did you use the win to promote the product?
We used the award-winning logo on advertising, email sign off and media.
New Product Awards at PATS Sandown 2023
The New Product Showcase and Awards will again be main features at this year’s PATS Sandown. All entries to the Showcase will be judged by a panel of independent retailers and retail specialists on the first morning of the show (26 March), and winners of the Awards will be announced at 1pm on the same day.
For all the latest information on PATS Sandown visit www.patshow.co.uk, where you can also register for free entry to the show.
