Award-winning retailers have given the thumbs-up to the news that PATS 2024 will be a three-day exhibition.
The event will be staged at Telford International Centre from Sunday September 29 – Tuesday October 1, 2024. By enlarging the space to take over the entire centre, the trade exhibition will have the capacity to accommodate more than 400 exhibitors, compared to this year’s record number of 256.
Paula Machin from The Pet Stop, Market Deeping, Lincolnshire, is looking forward to the new format. Paula, who collected the Independent Retailer of the Year accolade at the recent PIF Awards, said: “We go to PATS every year and it’s always difficult to cover the whole event in one day. Extending the exhibition by an extra day, especially if there are more exhibitors to see, is a big advantage as far as we are concerned, and we’ll definitely be staying overnight.
“We love going to see all the new products – it keeps us ahead of the game by constantly changing our stock. PATS is also a great place to discover new suppliers.”
Sammie Hunt, owner of multi award-winning store Redpaw Pet Supplies, added: “I think the changes to PATS are exciting, especially for us as we travel up from Devon. We intend to stay for the extra day as it will give us more time and opportunities to spend with regular and new suppliers. PATS is the only time we get to talk ‘face to face’ and this extra time will be so valuable. All the changes are positive and I’m looking forward to it already.”
PATS organisers will also be working closely with trade association PetQuip to encourage an increasing number of international buyers to next year’s show. Trade federation manager Susan Fairley said: “The new three-day timeline will add value for both UK and international buyers. The last day of the Telford show this year was notably busy right up until the end, so it’s clear that the current visitors will welcome more time to complete their visit. For international buyers, the extended show days will make their trip more beneficial.”
The three-day show will retain all its regular features, including the New Product Showcase and Awards, the New Starter Zone, and the Grooming Workshop, as well as a host of special deals and discounts.
Entry will remain free for visitors, including free parking, a free show catalogue, and a complimentary tea/coffee voucher. For all the latest information visit www.patshow.co.uk
