Trade show season is upon us, and for those in the pet food industry, it’s an exciting time to connect, learn and grow.
Petfood Forum 2024 hosted the largest pet food supplier trade show in the industry with over 375 companies participating. But the expo floor isn’t just about booths, it’s a multifaceted experience. It’s where you’ll find the Future of Petfood Pavilion, Petfood Tech Talk Stage, lunch, coffee breaks and an evening reception.
As we begin the new year and trade show season, whether you’re a seasoned attendee or preparing for your first event, having a strategy can make the experience more rewarding and efficient. Here are a few tips to do so!
1. Plan ahead
Before stepping onto the expo floor, review the event’s schedule, exhibitor list, and floor plan. Prioritize the booths, sessions, and networking events you want to attend, and set clear goals – whether it’s learning about new products, meeting specific suppliers, or exploring industry trends.
2. Wear comfortable shoes and bring essentials
Trade shows often mean hours of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must. Don’t forget essentials like a water bottle, snacks, and a notebook or device for taking notes.
3. Network with intention
Be proactive about meeting people. Introduce yourself to exhibitors, strike up conversations during coffee breaks, and exchange business cards. Use LinkedIn to connect with new contacts after the event to maintain those valuable relationships.
4. Explore beyond the booths
At Petfood Forum the expo floor offers much more than company booths. Don’t miss highlights like the Future of Petfood Pavilion, the Petfood Tech Talk Stage, the Student Program presentations, and scheduled lunch and coffee breaks. The networking receptions also provide a more casual setting to connect with your peers.
5. Follow up post-event
Once the event is over, review the materials you collected and follow up with the connections you made. A quick thank-you email, or LinkedIn message can leave a lasting impression and pave the way for future opportunities.
Looking ahead to Petfood Forum 2025
As one of the largest pet food supplier trade shows, Petfood Forum 2025 will feature over 375 exhibitors showcasing the latest products and innovations. Whether you’re attending to explore cutting-edge technology, gather insights from expert-led sessions, or network with industry leaders, preparation is key to getting the most out of the experience.
Stay tuned for our “How to navigate the expo hall” guide, coming closer to the event.
To be in the center of the action of the pet food industry, be sure to register for Petfood Forum. Petfood Forum and Petfood Essentials show dates are April 28-30, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. To stay informed on the latest event developments, go to PetfoodForumEvents.com.
