PATS 2025 – the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show – has smashed all records with its first-ever show at the NEC Birmingham, attracting its highest-ever attendance figures. A total of 6,021 people visited across the three days, representing a stunning 70% increase on last year’s exhibition.
Under the new ownership of Raccoon Media Group, the largest-ever PATS show also had a truly international feel to it with 317 visitors from overseas, up by a massive 169%, and a record number of 445 exhibitors representing 15 countries.
The show was so successful that an impressive 67% of exhibitors (245 brands) have already booked their stand space for PATS 2026, and more than 50 new companies expressed an interest in exhibiting.
PATS 2025 delivered an unrivalled platform for the launch of exciting new pet product innovations, including a record number of 450 entries to the New Product Showcase. Other highlights included the Aquatics Zone – a dedicated area for aquatics, water gardening and reptile exhibitors – and live grooming demonstrations.
“The pet industry is such an exciting and dynamic space to be part of right now,” said Event Director Ian Reynolds. “I’m genuinely looking forward to collaborating with so many incredible brands and companies – and, most importantly, with the passionate people who work tirelessly to innovate and deliver outstanding products”.
“At PATS, we’re committed to matching that passion by investing in the show and the sector. We’re launching a new event app, supporting a dedicated charity partner within the pet industry, and expanding into Halls 3 and 3a to deliver our largest show yet at 14,000sqm”.
“We’re also working more closely with PetQuip, the Pet Industry Federation, plus other partners, introducing a Hosted Buyer programme, and strengthening our presence in the international pet market. Together, these steps are designed to ensure PATS continues to be the most valuable and vibrant trade exhibition for our industry – helping you connect, grow and succeed.”
This year PATS co-located with leading equestrian trade show BETA International, giving visitors the chance to experience both events and adding significant value to attendees and exhibitors alike.
“We’re delighted with the response to PATS – Pet & Aquatics Trade Show – this year,” said Nicole Cooper, CEO of Raccoon Media Group’s Animal Health Division. “The event continues to be a cornerstone for the industry, and it was fantastic to see so many visitors and exhibitors engaging, networking, and sharing their passion for the sector. We’re already looking ahead to 2026, building on this year’s success and exploring new ways to make the show even more valuable for everyone involved.”
Visitors Jessy Chaston and Jenny Roe, directors of Doodledales in Stowmarket, Suffolk, summed up why PATS is a must-visit exhibition: “We attended the show for the full three days and we only just got round to seeing everything. It was fantastic – we’d recommend it to anyone. We’ll definitely be attending next year.”
PATS 2026 takes place at the NEC Birmingham on 27-29 September 2026 and for more information on exhibiting visit patshow.co.uk
