Retailers from independent shops to garden centre outlets and high street chains all braved a second day of travel disruption to get to PATS Sandown in Surrey today (Monday).
With more than 150 companies and brands exhibiting at the spring pet industry exhibition there was plenty for visitors to see and talk about including a number of new product launches.
Initial concerns about the weather were soon dispelled and exhibitors largely gave a thumbs-up regarding the quality and quantity of visitors.
The Forthglade Foods stand was busy on both days of the event. Trade sector controller Bill Kimberling said his team had little time to draw breath. He said: “We have doubled the amount of orders taken compared to last year, which is a phenomenal achievement. As well as beating our expectations in terms of business achieved, I have been particularly impressed with the quality of the conversations we’ve had with buyers.”
It was a similar story on the Natures Menu stand where Peter Roy said: “It has been non-stop for us, especially on day two. We’ve taken lots of orders and had lots of inquiries from new customers. This show is so good for delivering the right level of visitor.”
And Tom Page, from Inspired Pet Nutrition, which has exhibited at every Sandown show since it launched in 2009, said: “The quality of visitors is what makes PATS so special. Let’s say I’ve seen the people that matter.”
THE PLACE TO BE
First-time exhibitor Rocketo won a New Product Award for its Keto Orbiters Raw-dehydrated Vegan & Organic Dog Treat. Catherine Edwards said: “We’re delighted. PATS Sandown is the place to be. This exhibition attracts the major decision makers so exhibiting has paid off in a big way.”
Director Philip Lock, of New Product Award winner Canine Ketchup, said: “We really didn’t know what to expect, especially with a new product launch, but to win an award made exhibiting here extra special. I’ve been bowled over by the response.”
High street retailer John Lewis sent representatives to the show as the company plans to introduce pet care into its giftware department.
Assistant buyer Rosie Bicks said: “PATS has been talked about as the place to source new products and suppliers, and it has proved very useful. We love the fact you get a taste of all the different brands all under one roof. We also like the focus being placed on sustainability, which reflects the direction being taken by our business.”
And Paul Smith, buying director at Chessington Garden Centre, said: “PATS is the place to see all the new products. I would say this is the best New Product Showcase for years. It has been inspirational for us to see the quality of the new products and has given us faith and confidence.”
