Zoomark shines brightly

"I never imagined the show would be this big!" That was the astonished reaction of some exhibitors hosting a stand in Bologna for the first time. Companies that attend Zoomark International regularly and know the show better prize its clear arrangement, short routes between the show halls and the intimate atmosphere of the exhibition area above all. In spite of the addition of a further hall to this area, Zoomark remains a compact fair, something that is clearly reflected in the manner in which companies present their products and services at the show. Although some stands are large, they still offer a clear overview, which is not always the case at Interzoo. 
The mood was good through­-out, perhaps on account of the favourable economic situation currently prevailing in many countries. With regard to the visitors, the "international" tag attached to the show's name was fully justified in the first two days of the fair, with virtually all the major retailers turning up in Bologna.

In the months leading up to the show the signs were already there that this year's Zoomark International would be a success. The demand for stand space was unexpectedly high, prompting the organisers to take the swift decision to add another hall to the exhibition area. 735 exhibitors from 43 countries appeared, an increase of 17 per cent from two years ago. Five country pavilions provided clear evidence of the growing international flavour of the fair. The USA, Great Britain and China in particular were once again represented by a large contingent of companies.
In contrast to many other trade shows, the presentation of dog and cat food did not dominate the proceedings in Bologna. Accessory products, especially collars and leads, beds and cushions, toys and transport containers were prominently displayed on the stands. Outdoor activities with dogs were a key theme on many stands, while hygiene and care products played a significant role too. Dog apparel, a very strong segment in Italy on account of the large number of small dogs there, was likewise accorded a high priority on the exhibition area. As well as the dog and cat categories, food and accessories for small animals were to be found on quite a few stands, demonstrating that this segment still offers development potential despite stagnating sales.