PATS has smashed all records with its first-ever three-day show at Telford in Shropshire, attracting its highest ever attendance figures since the event was launched in 2009.

A total of 3,541 visitors – made up of retailers, buyers, groomers and industry professionals – came through the doors of the Telford International Centre in Shropshire, which was 52% higher than the previous record set last year.

The largest-ever PATS show, staged in four halls and including an Aquatics Zone for the first time, closed with visitors and exhibitors agreeing it had been a huge success, with the event delivering an unrivalled platform for the launch of hundreds of exciting new pet product innovations.

Show director Gordon Thomas said the visitor attendance record, backed up by the highest number of exhibitors (more than 340), was clear evidence of the event’s popularity.

“Overall, the response to PATS 2024 has been excellent and positive, and proves that the pet industry is firmly behind this show. Also, the reaction to news of our move to the NEC Birmingham in 2025 has been greeted with enthusiasm by both exhibitors and visitors.”

The overwhelming reaction to this year’s PATS from exhibitors was one of great delight.

Helen Davies, founder of Oh So Precious, said: “It was another terrific coming-together of passionate people working in the pet trade. We heard lots of positive thoughts about moving to the NEC from visitors, so we have already booked our stand and are looking forward to PATS 2025.”

Zara Igoe, head of marketing at Eden Holistic Pet Food, agreed that it had been a highly successful show, adding: “PATS is not just a trade show, but a thriving hub of connections, creativity, and collaborations in the pet industry. From the very first conversation to the final handshake, our time at PATS was filled with engaging discussions. We can’t wait to reunite with our industry partners, new friends, and loyal customers at next year’s show.”

New exhibitor HugglePets was thrilled with the “incredible response” the company experienced at PATS.  Sales and marketing director Tom Gwilliam said: “The three days were absolutely brilliant, giving us the opportunity to connect with many new and existing customers. PATS proved to be the perfect platform for launching our new catalogue and introducing over 350 brand-new SKUs. We can't wait to be a part of next year's event at the NEC.”

The Canagan Group also reported having a great show. Joint managing director Charlie Williams commented: “It was lovely to reconnect with our existing customers while also having the opportunity to meet potential new ones. We were thrilled to launch three new ranges, all of which have sold amazingly well, further highlighting the value of this event for showcasing our innovations. Looking ahead, we believe that the NEC could offer significant advantages, including improved transport links and a larger venue to accommodate a growing number of exhibitors and visitors – both will enhance the overall experience.”

Jonathan Collin, sales director at Bugalugs Pet Care, said: “PATS 2024 came and went in a flash. We had many great conversations and built many new relationships with some truly great businesses, as well as enhancing our relationships with all our existing partners. PATS truly is a wonderful event that showcases the best of our industry and something we look forward to each year.”

The new Aquatics Zone proved to be a great addition to PATS, with exhibitor Ben Windeatt, sales & marketing director of J&K Aquatics, stating: “It was great to see the Aquatics Zone sold out and full of exhibitors. For us at J&K it was a pleasure, as always, to catch up with a good number of our longstanding customers as well as meet with and introduce our brands and product ranges to potential new ones. Hopefully the new format for 2025, moving into a larger venue, capable of accommodating even more exhibitors, and with better air, road and rail access, will encourage even more visitors, allowing the show to grow in the years to come.”

PATS 2024 also got the thumbs up from visitors.

Phil Moore, CEO and founder of Murphy’s Dog House, Redditch, said: “PATS is exceptionally well organised, easy to navigate and very professionally executed. It provides a perfect opportunity for us to see new products coming to market, and to engage with existing and new suppliers.”

And Kirstan Powell of Muddy Paws Pet Supplies & Groomers in Bodmin, added: “PATS is a fun friendly show and a great place to do business. I will definitely attend next year’s show. Every year it’s well worth our journey from Cornwall.”

The final word was left to exhibitor In Vogue Pets with director Jonothan Goodman stating: “PATS 2024 was wonderfully manic – really, just so good. The move to the NEC is going to be a game-changer. It’s a great venue and the communications and travel are so easy – just get off the train and you are there.”

Date for the diary:

Ends

Photographs of PATS 2024 are available to download at

https://stewartwrittle.dphoto.com/album/7zqxjg

For further media information please contact Neil Pope by email press@impact-exhibitions.com