PATS 2026 set to break trade records again
Pet retailers, distributors and garden centres are being urged to register now for PATS 2026, as free trade visitor registration opens ahead of the UK’s largest pet and aquatics industry exhibition.
Returning to the NEC Birmingham from 27–29 September 2026, PATS 2026 is set to build on a record-breaking 2025 edition with expanded features, international growth and new visitor attractions.
The 2025 show delivered its strongest performance to date, welcoming 6,021 visitors—a 70% increase year-on-year—and 445 exhibitors from 15 countries, reinforcing its position as the UK pet trade’s key sourcing and networking event.
International attendance also surged, with 317 overseas visitors marking a 169% increase, reflecting growing global interest in the UK pet and aquatics sector and the show’s expanding influence.
Organisers say demand for stand space and visitor registration in 2026 has been “phenomenal”, with strong interest from both returning brands and new exhibitors across multiple product categories.
Under new ownership by Raccoon Media Group, PATS has continued to expand its content offering and visitor experience, introducing new features aimed at improving buyer engagement and product discovery.
New additions for 2026 include a Hosted Buyer Programme, Pet Industry Awards, International Pavilion, Drop-In Clinic and an expanded New Product Showcase, alongside established zones for aquatics and new starter businesses.
Event Director Ian Reynolds said the enhancements are designed to give retailers and buyers even more value, with improved networking opportunities and easier access to the latest product innovations.
PATS 2026 will once again run alongside BETA International 2026, allowing visitors to attend both exhibitions with a single registration and broaden their sourcing opportunities across the wider animal and pet care sectors.
With strong exhibitor demand and a rapidly expanding international profile, PATS 2026 is expected to reaffirm its status as a must-attend event for the UK pet retail and aquatics industry.
You can register now online at https://bit.ly/42L7tca. For more details of the visitor attractions as well as a full list of exhibitors visit www.patshow.co.uk.