PATS 2026 expands product discovery and buyer support

For anyone buying, stocking or sourcing within the pet and aquatics trade, the UK market moves fast. New brands launch constantly, customer expectations keep rising and staying ahead often depends on spotting what is genuinely new before it becomes widely available.

That’s the gap PATS (Pet & Aquatics Trade Show) is built to close, and its 2026 edition gives visitors more reasons than ever to attend.

New products and suppliers in one place

PATS 2026 will take place from 27 to 29 September at the NEC Birmingham, co-located with BETA International, the event for the equestrian and country sectors. Last year’s edition welcomed more than 6,000 visitors, while the 2026 show is expected to bring together over 550 exhibiting brands across the pet and aquatics industry.

For visitors, this means access to suppliers, live product demonstrations and the New Products Showcase & Awards, which will spotlight products launched to trade since October 2025.

A structured route for senior buyers

PATS 2026 launches its Hosted Buyer Programme, aimed at senior buyers with direct purchasing power at multi-site or online retailers. 

Hosted buyers receive support with travel and accommodation costs, a flexible meeting schedule with selected suppliers and access to exclusive networking with exhibitors throughout the show. 

Rather than navigating the show floor without a plan, hosted buyers arrive with a pre-arranged route designed around making the most of their time. Applications for the PATS Hosted Buyer Programme are available here.

Education and expertise on the floor

The Grooming Zone returns for 2026 with a new expanded programme, including retailer-focused sessions developed in partnership with BIGA (British Isles Grooming Association) to give retail staff practical grooming knowledge they can apply directly in-store, alongside the usual live demonstrations from industry groomers.

Coffee & Connect brings market insight and real-world perspective together over a relaxed coffee morning. Visitors can hear directly from experts from Pets at Home, Omni and Leopard Co. on what is currently shaping the pet trade, then stay on to network with fellow retailers, buyers and exhibitors over coffee and pastries. No pre-registration is required; a PATS ticket grants automatic access.

Over in the Aquatics & Reptile Zone, Animal Encounters delivers expert-led sessions in partnership with Animal Teach, covering animal behaviour, adaptations and welfare, offering practical knowledge that staff can apply in their businesses.

International sourcing opportunities

This year introduces the International Pavilion, giving visitors direct access to first-to-stock international brands not yet widely available in the UK. For retailers looking to differentiate their range or get ahead of trends before competitors do, this is a dedicated space for discovery.

Travel and accommodation

Birmingham International Airport sits directly adjacent to the NEC, connected by a free Air-Rail Link taking under two minutes. Birmingham International railway station is just a five-minute walk from the venue, with direct connections to London and other major UK cities.

Preferential hotel rates for PATS 2026 are available through the show’s official accommodation partner, with a range of options close to the NEC for different budgets.

PATS 2026 is free to attend for qualifying trade professionals. Trade professionals can register for a free ticket here.