AQUA 2017, the UK’s aquatics and water gardening trade event, will stage its biggest ever trade show in October with a record number of over 100 exhibitors showcasing their products and services.

Visitors to the exhibition at Telford International Centre on October 18-19 can expect a busy and exciting event as all the exhibitor stands have been snapped up.

The exhibition halls will be packed with UK and international companies, and as well as meeting up with a long list of AQUA regulars, visitors will be greeted by a host of new faces.

“I’m happy to report that the UK’s major exhibitors are again heading for Telford. It’s a really exciting time for the exhibition and I can promise visitors it will be the biggest ever AQUA show,” said show organiser Annie Foord.

And AQUA event chairman Dr David Pool added: “This event was set up by the aquatic trade for the aquatic trade and the organisers are constantly listening to feedback and looking for new ways to improve the visitor experience. We’re certain that time spent at AQUA 2017 will prove to be both memorable and valuable.

“A lot of planning and hard work has gone into organising this show and I’m confident you will have an enjoyable and profitable visit.”

Once again the New Product Showcase is set to be one of the highlights of the exhibition. A record number of more than 100 new products were showcased in 2015 when AQUA was last staged, and a higher number is expected this year. All the items will be entered into the New Product Awards, which will be judged by a team of independent retailers on the opening morning of the show.

In recognition of the growing importance of the New Product Showcase, the Awards will be for first time presented to the winners at a sold-out AQUA dinner, in front of an audience of over 600 people from the trade after the first day of the show.

There will 10 different categories making up the Showcase and Awards. They are:

• POS/Merchandising/Support
• Reptile
• Pond Construction/Decoration
• Pond Pumps
• Pond Filters
• Pond Food, Care and Accessories
• Aquaria, Furniture and Decor
• Freshwater Equipment
• Aquarium Food, Care and Accessories
• Marine Equipment

As well as getting to see all the new products to be launched on to the market, visitors will be well looked-after during their stay. There are more catering facilities and everyone will receive free tea and coffee, and a lunch voucher. Visitors can also benefit from free parking next to the exhibition hall.