Suppliers and retailers have agreed that the return of PATS Telford exhibition has given the UK pet industry a much-needed uplift.

The two-day event ended on Monday and the event took place with more exhibitors than ever before and more than 190 companies showcasing hundreds of new products.

“I love PATS because it delivers quality visitors and this year it has delivered in style,” said Suzanne Rothman, owner of Pet Munchies.

Naturaw director Chris Broadbent was also impressed with the quality of visitors to his stand, and the interest shown in sustainable products. “Our Louis & Ada Natural Treats are definitely on trend for being sustainable as they are natural, made from British meat, natural and the packaging is plastic-free.”

Martyn Barklett-Judge, managing director of Pet Remedy, said: “Our stand has been consistently busy throughout the two days of the show, and we’ve seen the key buying decision makers.”

A high number of companies exhibiting at PATS Telford for the first time agreed the show had fulfilled all their expectations.

Retailers were happy with the return of an in-person exhibition and the chance to speak to suppliers face-to-face.

Belinda Lunt, manager of Petcetera in Whitchurch, Shropshire, said: “This show is an important date in the pet industry calendar because it’s the place for retailers to see all the new innovations in one building. I’m glad it’s back.”

Julie Sandercock, owner of Bodle Brothers, of Burgess Hill, West Sussex: “We walked into the exhibition hall just after the doors were opened and there was already a buzz about the place. The stands all looked fantastic and it was great to see everyone again.”

Date for the diary
PATS Sandown, March 27-28, 2022