Successful concept

During the three days of the event at the Evenementenhal in Gorinchem, 5 126 pet professionals visited the fair. The atmosphere at the trade show was as pleasant as ever, but this year, the optimism of the participants was what really stood out: "Businesses are positive once again, and aren't afraid to invest," Dibevo president Joost de Jongh stated. This tone was due in part to the fact that many companies had experienced fantastic turnover for the annual national Dierendag (Pets' Day) the week before the event. This positive feeling was shared by exhibitors as well.

Joost de Jongh on the plans for next year: "As we saw once again, entrepreneurs are the gauge for what is going on in society. Things are improving in society, and they capitalise on this immediately. We will be offering a different way for businesses to meet. This will be a model that takes into account that two other major events are held during the even years: Interzoo and Anido. It will also be one that is in line with our role to create a setting in which our supplier members can meet their customers and do business. There will also be a broad programme of knowledge transfer, information supply and relaxation for these customers, the visitors to this event."

The results from the short visitor survey that was sent after every day of the fair showed that the new location and design of the new products gallery made a particularly good impression. Visitors viewed the comprehensive programme of presentations as a valuable supplement to the trade fair concept. The presentations offering practical tips generally drew more entrepreneurs to the lectures pavilion, and the presentation "Barf: fad or superfood?" was an undisputed hit among the visitors. The grooming pavilion was also buzzing with activity every day thanks to continuous demonstrations and workshops.

Over 1 200 visitors cast their votes for the 'best product' at the New Products Gallery. Exhibitor Hint International won the 2015 Dibevo Trade Fair Best-of-Show award. Over 26 per cent of those voting chose the Brio Aquaponics system as the best or most innovative product in the New Products Gallery. The runners-up were Healthy Dog 'Wild Menu' from Franckenfood (22%) and the Insect Bodyguard from Hofman Animal Care (16%).