The opening day of PATS Sandown has been hailed as a huge success by exhibitors who unveiled an amazing array of products to visitors flocking to the Surrey venue.

Many of the exhibitors were particularly pleased to see a growing number of international buyers visiting the show as well as an impressive amount of UK-based retailers.

One of the success stories was the new Beco Buyers’ Lounge, which was busy all day. George Bramble, co-founder of Beco Pets, said: "This year's show has been a runaway success for us. We've been all hands to the pump.

"The retailers have loved stepping into our inflatable Beco house and strolling across our trim lawn. Our Beco Poop Bags have been flying off the shelves like hot cakes."

His co-founder Toby Massey was on hand to receive a Highly Commended Award for Beco's new recycled plastic catnip toys. He added: "Having launched our new plush toy range at PATS, we were especially pleased to be recognised in this way. It's a product we have taken lots of care and attention developing."

Nathan Perry, key account manager of Pooch & Mutt, said this year's show was the best yet. “Our stand has been incredibly busy. PATS Sandown is my favourite show. As a small company we don't have reps on the road, so this show is the only time we can see other suppliers, current customers and prospective new customers all in one place at the same time."

Ken Seymour, of The Tasty Bone Company, was pleased to welcome a high number of international visitors on to his stand, and said the quality of interest shown in the company’s product range, particularly the Tasty Twin Pack, was impressive.

AmPet Products was another exhibitor reporting lots of interest from overseas. “We’ve had one inquiry from a Moroccan pet shop,” said sales director Alex Wilson. “Our DOOG and Dexas products have attracted good interest from home and abroad.”

Ken Mackinnon, of K9 Dog Wash, said business was non-stop on his stand for the first three hours of the show. “We sold two of our K9000 coin operated dog wash units, which is amazing. One buyer said he had visited the show just to see us.”

Aqueos were attending their second PATS Sandown and it turned into a successful one, as their Spray on Plaster won Best Pet Care Product. “After the awards were presented one of the judges came on to the stand and placed an order,” said Tracy Richards. “Overall, the interest in our products has been fantastic.”

Visitors to the show were equally enthusiastic about the first day’s activities. Marshalls Pet Store, from Poole, Dorset, said: “Wow! What an awesome day at PATS Sandown. It rocked!”