PATS merges shows

Pet industry exhibition PATS has announced that it will merge its two editions to make one, annual destination event as of 2024. The exhibition organiser has traditionally hosted an exhibition at Sandown Racecourse in Esher, Surrey in spring, followed by a second edition in Telford, Shropshire in autumn. The merge of the two events will create the UK’s biggest pet exhibition, making the event more efficient for both exhibitors and visitors alike.

In an unprecedented move, PATS will take over the entirety of Telford’s International Centre, playing host to more exhibitors than ever before at its 2024 event. The show – which is scheduled for 29 September until 1 October next year – has been created in response to industry feedback to have one, key event at which the entire industry can unite and network.

Attendance at the 2024 edition of PATS is predicted to see a sharp increase, thanks to the merging of both Esher’s visitor numbers and those who traditionally attend the Telford edition. Footfall at Telford has already seen a steady increase, with figures this year up six per cent on 2022, and 13 per cent on 2021. The new united event will now encompass all pet enthusiasts across both the north and south of England, as well as those from Scotland, Ireland and further afield.

Exhibitors keen to show at the event are advised to enquire early, due to increased demand for floorspace. Smart Display is a regular at show and, having installed an impressive four stands at last month’s show, is already planning its return with its regular exhibitors.

“Everyone commented on our stand and said how much they loved it,” said Emma Bowes, head of commercial at the Barking Bakery. “It’s a fun brand which is replicated in our design and no-one has a pink stand, so it attracts attention. We also find that people are recognising the brand more because we re-use the stand from one show to the next.”

At the other end of the spectrum, Catit launched its product at this season’s PATS, and was happy to have entrusted Smart Display with its debut stand.

“We were launching a product so the stand had to be the right platform from which to do that,” says Ian Parker, sales manager. “We arrived to see the stand complete and we were ever so pleased; it definitely stood out compared to the other stand around us. We loved the backlit logo and the impact of the branding and it did the job; we had a busy few days and saw the customers that we wanted to see.”

If you are considering exhibiting at next year’s PATS, it’s not too early to start thinking about your stand design. Get in touch today and see how Smart Display can bring your brand to life.