International Pet Conference 2026 kicks off

Colourful gabled houses, the Little Mermaid and plenty of water – the Danish capital not only has a great deal to offer, but is also this year's venue for the International Pet Conference. Under the motto ‘Pets, People, Progress – Developing the pet industry together’, around 160 industry professionals from countries across the globe are gathering in Copenhagen on 13 and 14 October to discuss market developments, emerging trends and the future of the industry.

The two-day event, organised by PET worldwide in cooperation with Hinte Expo & Conference, is taking place at the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel. Bringing together retailers, manufacturers, suppliers and industry representatives, the conference offers a programme featuring 19 sessions and activities, with high-calibre presentations, forward-looking discussions and numerous opportunities for networking and exchanging ideas.

The conference was preceded by a fully booked get-together on 12 October, offering 100 participants an opportunity to reconnect and make new contacts ahead of the official programme. The evening began with a boat tour through Copenhagen's harbour and canals, followed by an informal buffet at the rooftop restaurant The View, overlooking the Danish capital.

Today, Tuesday, following the opening address by Marc Dähne, Managing Director of Dähne Verlag, and an introduction by moderator Oliver Mengedoht, Managing Editor of PET worldwide, the first conference day began with a focus on retail, premiumisation and developments in the European pet market.

Marco Hierling, CEO of Alpha Pet, opened the speaker programme with a presentation on how healthy premium pet food is moving from a niche segment towards the mainstream market. Pavel Bouška, Chairman of the Board of the VAFO Group, then explored the future of pet wellbeing and the opportunities extending beyond traditional pet food.

A particular focus of this year's conference is the Nordic pet market. In his keynote address, Per Lausen, CEO of Danish company Eldorado A/S, examined consumer behaviour, market trends and growth opportunities in Scandinavia. His presentation highlighted the importance of understanding regional differences in an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving industry.

The programme continued with Ellinor Persdotter Nilsson of the Musti Group, who presented the company's growth story and its expansion from a Nordic market leader into other European markets. Another highlight of the opening day is an interview with Anthony Gallagher, Managing Director of Irish pet retailer Petstop. In conversation with Mengedoht, Gallagher shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges he has overcome and the development of his retail business.

The afternoon programme will turn to further challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Topics include mental health in the veterinary profession and practical applications of artificial intelligence. A short presentation followed by a discussion, led by representatives of the European Pet Organisation, will focus on the responsible sourcing of animals.

Five young companies will also present their business concepts in short pitches as nominees for the PET worldwide Best Newcomer Award 2026, moderated by PET worldwide editor Sarah Daubert.

The official programme of the first conference day will conclude with a panel discussion on the future of international pet trade shows, bringing together Dr. Rowena Arzt, Head of Exhibitions at WZF/Interzoo, Pascale Sonvico, Exhibition Manager at Zoomark, and Chris Li, Global Marketing Director of the China International Pet Show (CIPS), to discuss the future direction of the industry's leading international trade fairs.

The day will conclude with the festive WOW Night, featuring the presentation of the PET worldwide Best Newcomer Award and the PET worldwide Personality of the Year Award 2026.

On 14 October, the conference will broaden its international perspective with presentations on growth strategies in South-Eastern Europe, developments in South Africa and opportunities in Southeast Asia. Artificial intelligence, alternative proteins and cultivated meat for pet food will also be among the central topics.

Beyond the presentations and panel discussions, the International Pet Conference places particular emphasis on personal exchange. Networking sessions and informal conversations offer participants opportunities to strengthen existing relationships and develop new partnerships across national and industry boundaries.

More information and the full programme are available at www.pet-conference.com.