The opening day of PATS 2025 was buzzing with excitement as visitors flocked to see the record number of trade stands and pet industry innovations on show.
Exhibitors were delighted by the number of enquiries and orders generated on Sunday, with many rushed off their feet for the entire day.
The three-day event is the biggest in PATS history, with Hall 1 of the NEC being used for the first time. PATS is also co-locating with BETA International, taking place in Hall 2.
A record number of more than 430 exhibitors are showcasing their products, with many start-up businesses taking advantage of the New Starter Zone.
Matthew Gwynn, sales and marketing manager for Johnson’s Veterinary Products, summed up the mood of exhibitors, saying: “What a fantastic start to PATS 2025! It’s great to be back connecting with both familiar faces and new customers. There’s a real buzz around the NEC in Birmingham, and we’ve already had huge interest in our full range of products. We’re especially proud to be shining a spotlight on pet healthcare.”
Newcomer GhostDog Pets is using PATS 2025 to launch its new Sync range of pet food products. Founder Glenn Rankin commented: “Sync has been months in the making and to have such a positive reaction on the floor today at PATS is incredible. We’re delighted to have had the reception we’ve had from pet retailers. We’ve been extremely busy and had some great conversations. We look forward to having lots more talks with the trade over the next two days.”
There was an international feel to the show with many overseas companies exhibiting, including DOG Copenhagen from Denmark. International sales manager Martin Smedegaard said: “I am extremely impressed with the start the show. We have had a lot of interest shown in our products. On the back of visiting the event last year, I decided to take a stand this year, and I’m glad I did.”
The first day of the show also got the thumbs-up from visitors.
Sarah Cook, manager of Dearne Valley Pet Centre in Barnsley, said: “My first impression is how much bigger it is. There’s so much to see that you know as soon as you get through the door that your visit is going to be worthwhile. In fact, we’ve already spent a fortune. Everything is so much more tempting when you can touch it and see it on display. I also love all the networking.”
Kevin Roberts, of family-run independent Old Hill Pet Supplies, commented: “We come to PATS because we always find something new that will set us apart from other stores. It is an incredible place for a business like ours, which is always looking to stock natural and eco-friendly products.
And award-winning Trusty Pet Supplies, voted UK Retailer of the Year by PetQuip in 2024, believes that PATS helps to keep the store ahead of the game. Owner Hannah Edmondson remarked: “The exhibition is huge this year. There is so much to see and loads to suppliers to meet. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
The second day of the show – Monday, 29th September – will open at 9.30am.
Ends
PATS 2025 is organised by Impact Exhibitions & Events,
part of the Raccoon Media Group.
Raccoon Media Group is a dynamic, high-growth media business dedicated to serving passion-led communities across both B2C and B2B markets worldwide. Through its impactful events and media properties, Raccoon delivers year-round content, education and growth and networking opportunities to specialist, self-identifying audiences. Founded in 2018 the company has rapidly expanded its portfolio across health, wellbeing and specialist passion-led markets. Entrepreneurial and disruptive, Raccoon challenges the status quo, invests in exceptional people and creates sustainable events that foster industry growth and meaningful connections. Connect with us at www.raccoonmediagroup.com. For all PATS media enquiries, please contact Neil Pope by email
