Record-breaking attendance figures at PATS Telford
 |
PATS Telford has broken all records with the number of visitors attending the two-day show surpassing the 2,000 mark for the third time in a row.
A total of 2,148 visitors came through the doors of The Telford International Centre, which was 7% higher than PATS Telford last year.
The successful show closed with visitors and exhibitors agreeing it had been a huge success, with the event delivering an unrivalled platform for the launch of hundreds of exciting new pet product innovations.
Organiser Gordon Thomas said many of the companies exhibiting at PATS Telford were eager to point out the quality of people visiting their stands had been of the highest standard.
“Exhibitors told us they met with the key decision makers and buyers, and that was good to hear because we put in place measures that ensured the right people attended.
“Overall the response to PATS Telford 2017 has been excellent and positive, and proves that the pet industry is firmly behind this show.”
George Bramble, co-founder of Beco Pets, said: “I was very impressed with the quality of visitor, and in particular the large contingent of international visitors this year. It seems the UK pet industry in general and PATS Telford are going from strength to strength. We’ll definitely be back next year.”
Katie Goldsmith, of Collarways, commented: "We had a fantastic show - I even lost my voice from talking to so many people. There was a very good buzz in the halls and the orders taken exceeded all our expectations. It was great to see existing customers as always and we are excited to start relationships with all the new people we met."
And for Pet Munchies, who’ve been attending PATS shows for the past seven years, it just gets better and better with every show. “This year has been phenomenal,” said managing director Suzanne Rothman.
Michelle Turnbull, owner of The Barking Bakery, said: “Having just returned from my third time as an exhibitor to PATS Telford, I must compliment the team of organisers for such a great show. The whole event, from setting up to the flurry of potential buyers, was fabulous. I have already reserved my stand for next year.”
Edgard & Cooper launched the world’s first fresh meat kibbles for dogs at PATS Telford a year ago, and the exhibition has been a key factor in the company’s success. Rebecca Owens said: “PATS provides a fantastic platform to showcase our brand to the pet trade. Visitors come to see a diverse range of products, so the event is perfect for us.”
Hay Pigs won a New Product Award for their innovative circus-themed small animal products and managing director Rik Cridland commented: “We're thrilled to have won an award in our first year of trading. PATS Telford was a wonderful experience and we are appreciative of the warm welcome we received from the pet trade community, it feels like we are part of one big family already.”
The show attracted an impressive number of international visitors, who felt the trip proved well worthwhile. Christer Wernborg, of Sweden, said: “The show was even better than I expected. I made a lot of new contacts and it’s a great way to discover new trends. I’m sure a lot of business will come out of this exhibition.”
The final word was left to award-winning pet retailer Paws and Claws, who summed up the mood of visitors. Liz Gleave said: “PATS Telford is always a great experience for anyone involved in the pet trade. This year was extra special for us as we presented a well-received seminar about our retail journey and also picked up a national award. It was also great to meet up with old friends and establish new contacts. We would highly recommend the event to others in the pet industry.”
Date for the diary
PATS Sandown 2018: March 20-21
|
|
