UK pet trade show PATS has a new owner.
The exhibition has been bought by Raccoon Media Group, owner of the National Equine Show and a range of other health, fitness and outdoor events in Europe and the US. The company has set up a new Animal Health Division to administer PATS alongside another trade show acquisition, the BETA International event, as well as the established National Equine Show. PATS and BETA International will run side by side at the NEC Birmingham next September.
Heading the new Animal Health Division is Nicole Cooper, who joins Raccoon Media Group as chief executive, Animal Health Division, on the back of 30 years’ experience in the events sector. The existing PATS team, including director Gordon Thomas, will work closely with Raccoon Media Group, combining resources and expertise.
Thomas said: “Joining Raccoon Media Group is a fantastic opportunity for the PATS brand and our team. Raccoon’s commitment to our industry, alongside their expertise in running successful trade shows, means we’ll be able to take PATS to the next level. I look forward to working alongside Nicole and the broader Raccoon team as we embark on this exciting journey together.”
PATS has been running since 2009, and a joint statement said that, under its new ownership, “industry professionals can expect a dynamic evolution of the show, with an expanded focus on product innovation, networking, and insights that will serve both emerging and established brands”.
BETA International is claimed to be the UK’s leading equestrian and country trade fair with visitors and exhibitors from over 25 countries, and the acquisition strengthens Raccoon’s position within the Equestrian market, serving both the B2B and B2C audience in the UK.
Claire Williams, executive director at trade body BETA, said: “The integration of BETA International into the new Animal Health Division will enable it to continue to develop whilst attracting both new visitors and exhibitors when it returns to the NEC. We are looking forward to working alongside Nicole and her team to grow BETA International in the future.”
Mike Seaman, ceo of Raccoon Media Group, said: “Our vision for rapid growth continues, but we’re deeply committed to staying true to the sectors that serve passion-led communities.
“The new Animal Health Division, under Nicole’s leadership, will allow us to expand our influence while continuing to provide meaningful experiences and services to the people and industries we care about. Nicole’s track record, industry knowledge, and enthusiasm for creating impactful events make her the perfect fit for this exciting new chapter.”
Cooper added: “I am thrilled to take on the role of ceo at such a pivotal moment for the Animal Health Division. The acquisition of PATS and BETA International represents a tremendous opportunity to expand our influence and innovation in the pet care and animal health sectors.
“These leading platforms align with our mission to support the welfare of animals and bring together key stakeholders to drive advancements in the industry. I look forward to working with our talented teams to maximize the potential of these acquisitions and continue to shape the future of animal health.”
