PATS 2025 will stage the biggest event in its 16-year history when it moves to its new home of Hall 1 of the NEC Birmingham in September.

The Pet and Aquatics Trade Show will host more than 400 exhibitors at the event, which takes place over three days from Sunday, 28th September to Tuesday 30th September 2025.

Johnson’s Veterinary Products has exhibited at every PATS show since the exhibition launched in 2009 and knows the value of showcasing its new products at the event.

Here, the award-winning brand explains why it thinks PATS is such an important event in the pet trade calendar.

What are your recollections of the first PATS show at Sandown Park in 2009?
There was a real sense of buzz and enthusiasm surrounding the introduction of the new show format and its Southern location, which offered improved accessibility for retailers in that region. Attendance was strong and the event generated a lot of interest.

Can you remember what new products you unveiled at that first show?
The spotlight was on our flagship 4fleas® range along with the Clean ‘n’ Safe® and comprehensive shampoo ranges, all of which were showcased prominently as core offerings at the event (see picture above).

How has Johnson’s Veterinary Products developed since that first show?
Since then, Johnson’s has expanded significantly in both company size and product portfolio. We've consistently introduced new innovations that respond to evolving market trends. A major milestone was celebrating our centenary in 2021 – a proud moment marking 100 years of supporting pet owners and retailers.

Do you think exhibiting at every PATS show over the past 16 years has helped that development?
Absolutely! Exhibiting regularly at PATS has been instrumental in reinforcing our brand presence and underlining our ongoing dedication to independent pet shops across the UK. It’s been particularly valuable in championing pet healthcare, an area that often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves in keeping our pets happy and healthy.

Have you got a highlight from exhibiting at PATS?
There are countless standout moments – probably too many to single out just one! And a few we probably shouldn’t share here.

You’ve always been a keen supporter of the independent pet retailer, is that why you launched National Pet Shop Day™?
Yes, that was the key motivation. For over a century, we’ve supported independent pet shops across the UK, recognising their role in offering knowledgeable advice and services. National Pet Shop Day™ was created to honour their dedication and our way of giving back too. Now in its second year, and supported this year by national bodies PIF (Pet Industry Federation) and Bira (British Independent Retailers Association), the initiative continues to shine a spotlight on the passion and commitment of these local pet businesses. It's a celebration of the value of independent pet shops, not just as suppliers, but as pet health and wellbeing hubs offering trusted advice and meaningful customer care.

How successful has that campaign been?
The response has been incredible. In its first year, over 200 pet shops took part in a variety of ways – from community events to customer promotions – driving both loyalty and footfall. Momentum has only grown, with over 400 retailers already signed up for this year’s event. The 2025 campaign, launching on Saturday 12th July, is shaping up to be the biggest yet, thanks to enthusiastic support from both the pet product retailers and partners like PIF and Bira, who share our mission to drive more footfall to the high street and champion these businesses. And with every shop putting its own spin on the festivities, members of the public can look forward to even more creativity and fun-filled events across the UK, from special offers, expert drop-ins, competitions, parties and plenty of treats, for pets and their people alike. To find out more, visit our website at nationalpetshopday.com

How much are you looking forward to this year’s show in Hall 1 at the NEC?
We’re thrilled to be exhibiting at the NEC. Being based in Birmingham, it’s right on our doorstep, which makes it extra convenient. We’re really looking forward to being part of the largest PATS show yet, reconnecting with friends and industry partners, and taking in all the excitement that comes with it.

Will you be unveiling new products at the show?
Yes, we’re excited to present our latest addition – Guardian® plus, an affordable pet healthcare range designed to complement our trusted and best-selling 4fleas® products. This new veterinary-strength, triple-action spot-on treatment for cats and dogs effectively tackles fleas, ticks, and lice, while also breaking the life cycle by preventing the development of eggs and larvae. The Guardian® plus range also includes our Guardian® Home Flea Spray, providing total protection in the home environment. Together, they offer an affordable, comprehensive solution for pet owners, combining ease of use with proven effectiveness.

Is it true Johnson’s Veterinary Products hasn’t missed a national trade exhibition during the past 50 years?
Johnson's Veterinary Products is proud of the fact it has never missed a national pet trade show since 1971 (see photo above of the first National Trade Show in Harrogate 1971). We don’t think any other company can lay claim to such a distinguished consecutive appearance record.

Make sure you don’t miss PATS 2025 where Johnson’s Veterinary Products will be on stand B43.

Register for your free entry at www.patshow.co.uk now.