The number of visitors attending the two-day PATS Telford show has broken the 2,000 mark for a fourth successive year.
A total of 2,047 visitors went through the doors at the impressive Telford International Centre, making it the second highest PATS attendance figure ever.
The successful show closed with visitors and exhibitors agreeing it had been a great success, with the event delivering an unrivalled platform for the launch of hundreds of exciting new pet product innovations.
Organiser Gordon Thomas said many of the companies exhibiting at PATS Telford were eager to point out the quality of people visiting their stands had been of the highest standard.
“Exhibitors told us they met with the key decision makers and buyers, and that was good to hear because we put in place measures that ensured the right people attended.
“Overall the response to PATS Telford 2018 has been excellent and positive, and proves that the pet industry is firmly behind this show.”
Mark Robinson, the Senior Business Development Manager at Smurfit Kappa, summed up the mood of the exhibitors, saying: “We thoroughly enjoyed the show. It was very well organised and we had some really good engagement with visitors and other exhibitors. This was our first time showing at PATS and we would certainly consider attending again.”
And Karen Scott, of Purely Fish, commented: “Thank you PATS Telford for another awesome show. It has been a jam-packed 48 hours but an excellent platform to meet and talk to pet trade wholesalers, retailers and independent stockists, both new and current.”
The number of visitors attending the show is clear evidence that PATS is the only pet trade exhibition where retailers and buyers can view all the latest launches under one roof.
Wendy Appleby, of Wentworth Pet Supplies in Surrey said: “This show is perfect because it showcases everything a pet store could possibly want,” and Robert Bell, of Gladwells Pet and Country Store, added: “The exhibition has a lovely layout, is very easy to navigate and I can find everything I want.”
Debby Knight, of The Bristles Dog Grooming, commented: “It was the best PATS I’ve attended. The ambiance of the whole event was excellent and as usual very well laid out. I stayed for both show days and it was well worth it.”
And Nikki Harris, Director of TFM Countrystore, Lincoln, said: “It was the best PATS show I’ve attended. The effort put into some of the displays was outstanding and very eye-catching, and we met so many enthusiastic and passionate suppliers.”
The focus now turns to PATS Sandown in Surrey, which is being held on Sunday and Monday, 10th-11th February 2019.
