Meetingpoint Birmingham

Building on unprecedented visitor growth and international expansion, this year’s fair promises an exciting mix of popular classics, innovative offerings and new attractions designed to inspire retailers and buyers alike, according to the organisers.

Pats achieved its highest ever visitor numbers at the NEC Birmingham in 2025, cementing its status as the industry’s premier event. Over the three-day show, 6,021 visitors attended, representing an impressive 70% increase on the previous year.

Under the new management of the Raccoon Media Group, the largest Pats show to date also saw a significant rise in international participation. The number of international visitors soared: 317 visitors from abroad – a remarkable 169% increase compared to the previous year – whilst a record 445 exhibitors from 15 countries showcased the latest products, innovations and trends shaping the pet and aquatics sector.

Pats 2026 will also take place alongside Beta International, one of the leading equestrian trade fairs, which runs from 27 to 28 September. This means that retailers and buyers can visit both trade fairs. To simplify the process, visitors need only register once, with visitors to Beta International gaining access to Pats and vice versa.

Pats 2026 is set to be the biggest event in its history, with more than 400 exhibitors, over 8,000 visitors and an exhibition area that has been expanded by over 2,000 m² since last year.

Under the patronage of ­PBWnews, the 2026 awards will feature more categories than ever before, with a total of 16 prizes to be awarded, including nine awards for pet products and three categories for aquatics, which will be judged based on entries to the ‘New Product Showcase’.

The winners will be announced and presented with their awards during a special gala dinner – another exciting new feature of Pats 2026 – in the Concourse Suite at the NEC during the show. In addition to the New Product Awards, three special UK Retailer Awards, an International Retailer Award and a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award will also be presented that evening.

The winners will be selected by a panel of experts comprising retail professionals and independent retailers, ensuring that the winning products and companies are recognised by the industry’s leading players.