With so many exciting plans for 2018, PATS Telford is shaping up to be another record-breaking event in September.

The two-day exhibition attracted 2,148 visitors in 2017 – the third year in a row that the 2,000 barrier had been broken – and hopes are high that even this record total will be bettered this year.

With still three months to the show more than 170 companies have already booked their stand space, so retailers and buyers can be certain the exhibition hall at The Telford International Centre will be packed with hundreds of new products.

As well as meeting up with a long list of PATS regulars, visitors will be greeted by a host of new faces when the show takes place on Sunday, September 23, and Sunday, September 24, 2018.

More than 50 companies are exhibiting at PATS Telford for the first time as they grasp the opportunity to showcase their products to retailers and overseas distributors.

Companies like Nylabone acknowledge the importance of exhibiting at the UK’s number one pet trade exhibition. “Following the success of our first PATS at Sandown earlier this year, we are delighted to be showcasing our products at Telford,” said commercial manager Jason Booker. “We are confident that the show will enable us to gain further exposure for our new Edible Snacks range, helping to secure the company’s position in a highly competitive market place.”

Jack Walker, of new company Scrumbles, said: “We’re makers of good food for cats and dogs. Having just launched, we are looking forward to meeting independent retailers that can join us on our adventure.”

Another new exhibitor, K9 Connectables, is looking for UK distribution partners to help bring its unique range of dog toys and treats to the UK pet market. “We are launching a brand new range of small, medium and large toy sets along with our premium functional treat range which helps to keep dogs entertained and engaged,” said James McIlvenna.

More international exhibitors are also using PATS as a platform to launch their products on to the UK market.

American company GoldPaw is looking forward to introducing its brand to the UK market. “We've shown at other international fairs but we decided to attend PATS because we wanted to focus our efforts on the UK this year. Our line of dog apparel is all about modern simplicity and dog-friendly comfort. We believe the UK audience will be receptive to our style and values,” said Rebecca Gadd.

One of PATS Telford’s most popular features is the New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews, which saw an impressive number of over 300 entries last year. Early indications suggest this figure will increase in 2018, and all items will be displayed prominently in the exhibition hall.

The Showcase entries will be judged by a panel of retailers for the New Product Awards on the first morning of the show, and the winners will receive their honours at the PetQuip Awards Dinner on the evening of the opening day.

To help make the visitor experience even more enjoyable and rewarding, visitors will receive free show entry, free parking, a free catalogue and many special offers. There will also be a full programme of free seminars and grooming demonstrations.

To register for free entry to the show and to view the full list of exhibitors visit www.patshow.co.uk