The Graphic Mill Exhibitor Guide to PATS 2026
Posted by Richard | Last updated 18/02/2026
Are you exhibiting at PATS in the Birmingham NEC this September? Here’s the essential dates, NEC logistics, and exhibition stand design for the UK’s leading pet trade show.
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Trusted Supplier – PATS
PATS (The Pet & Aquatics Trade Show) is the definitive event for the UK pet industry. It brings together retailers, independent stockists, and garden centre buyers who are actively sourcing new stock.
For 2026, the show continues to focus on structured business meetings and international trade. Graphic Mill builds stands that help you capitalise on this commercial environment. This guide covers your essential preparation.
At a Glance: Key Event Details
- Event Name: PATS 2026
- Venue: NEC Birmingham
- Dates: 27th – 29th September 2026
- Official Website: www.patshow.co.uk
- Recommended Planning Start Date: February – April 2026
- Primary Service: Exhibition Stand Design and Build by Graphic Mill
Why Exhibit at PATS 2026?
Attendees here are primarily retailers and buyers. They want to see products, check margins, and understand how your stock fits on their shelves.
The show facilitates high-value conversations. Your stand must allow for private meetings while simultaneously showcasing your product range to passing footfall. This is critical for all FMCG brands, from pet food and nutrition to toys and accessories, where packaging hierarchy and product quality need clear display.
The Strategic Advantage of a Graphic Mill Stand:
We design stands specifically for the retail environment. Here is how a custom build supports your sales goals:
- Flexible Merchandising: Whether you display heavy 15kg food bags or intricate accessories, we will design an eye-catching space to suit. We ensure shelves can hold significant weight without sagging and are spaced perfectly for your specific product dimensions.
- Product Demonstration: Retailers need to experience the product. We integrate hygienic sampling counters for food brands, or tactile display zones for toys and bedding. This removes barriers and encourages buyers to engage physically with the stock.
- Sustainable Construction: We use modular frames and recyclable materials. This reduces your carbon footprint and aligns your brand with the eco-conscious values of modern pet retailers.
- Stress-Free Logistics: We handle the NEC regulations. From submitting complex electrical forms to managing heavy lifting during build-up, we handle the paperwork. You focus on selling.
- Cost-Effective Scalability: We design stands that adapt. You can use your full structure for PATS, then reconfigure the modular elements for smaller regional shows or pop-up events.
When to Start Planning
A creative exhibition build requires 3 to 6 months of planning.
For September 2026, you should start now (Spring 2026).
The NEC is a busy venue. Securing the best installation slots and accommodation requires early action.
The Graphic Mill Planning Roadmap
- February – April (Strategy & Space): Secure your floor space. Define your goal (e.g. securing national distribution vs. independent retail accounts).
- March – May (Design Concepting): Engage Graphic Mill. We use your brief to create a 3D visualisation. We focus on flow, lighting, and brand impact.
- May – June (Refinement): We finalise materials, graphics, and furniture. We submit mandatory risk assessments to the NEC.
- July – August (Production): We pre-build your stand in our workshop. We test every component to prevent on-site issues.
- September (The Event): Our team handles the installation. You arrive ready to exhibit.
Stand Design Tips for Pet Brands
Retailers buy with their eyes. Your stand must function as a high-end showroom.
1. Product Hierarchy
Avoid packing every SKU onto the wall. It looks cluttered. We recommend “hero” displays for new launches, using digital screens to showcase the wider catalogue. This keeps the stand approachable.
2. Retail-Optimised Lighting
Standard venue lighting is often insufficient for product display. We use specific, bright lighting to ensure your packaging colours look accurate and premium. This makes food look appetizing and accessories look vibrant.
3. Storage is Key
You need immediate access to stock for replenishment and samples. We build discrete, lockable storage into the walls or counters. This keeps the floor clear of boxes and maintains a professional appearance throughout the show.
Logistics at NEC Birmingham
The NEC is one of the UK’s most accessible venues, but it has specific quirks.
Parking
Parking at the NEC is chargeable. Pre-book your parking passes online to save money and avoid queues at the payment machines on the day.
Accommodation
Hotels on the NEC campus (Resorts World, Hilton, Crowne Plaza) fill up months in advance. Book your team’s accommodation as soon as you confirm your stand space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Costs vary by space and complexity. Budget for design, production, installation, and dismantling. Contact us for a quote based on your plot size, or have a look at our exhibition stand pricing page for a rough estimate.
Yes. Many of our clients exhibit at PATS and then smaller events like Crufts or refined specialist shows. We store your stand properties securely between events.
Yes. For 2026, private meetings are essential. We can design semi-private booths or comfortable lounge areas within your stand footprint to facilitate deal-making away from the aisle noise.
Ready to get started?
A free consultation with our team will give you a clear roadmap of costs, timelines, and fresh design ideas guaranteed to make your brand the main attraction.
Ready to start? Book a meeting with our exhibition specialists, Miles 📅 or Ben 📅 at a time that works for you.
Prefer to talk now? Call us on +44 (0)800 4647974 or email us at hello@graphicmill.co.uk
