Record Exhibitors At Horse of the Year Show 2003

Horse of the Year Show returns to the NEC Arena, Birmingham from Wednesday 17th to Sunday 21st September 2003. Last year's move to the NEC was an overwhelming success attracting record crowds of over 55,000.

This annual equestrian spectacular brings with it a Tradestand Pavilion which this year will allow for a record 180 stands selling a variety of wares. Each of these will benefit from the public spend in the area which, following last year's customer survey, is calculated to be well in excess of £1,500,000 for the 5 days.

Following a review of the 2002 show, the organisers, Grandstand Media Ltd, have reconfigured the Tradestand Pavilion to expand aisle widths and allow for improved flow due to greater public attendance, whilst also increasing stand availability to meet demand from new and existing exhibitors.

"We were delighted at the success of last year's show. When we took on the event in 1997 we were playing to half empty houses with only about 110 stands in the Pavilion. Now, due to sell out performances and a huge year-on-year return rate of existing exhibitors, we are struggling to meet demand for both public admission tickets and tradestand space.

Having entered a new era, this year's Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) is certain to build on the triumph of 2002 and promises to be bigger and better than ever before. The response to our change in venue from all branches of the equestrian industry has, without exception, been extremely positive" stated Mark Wein, a Director of Grandstand Media Ltd.

Unlike many other events, Horse of the Year Show has the advantage of all the stands being indoors, under one roof, so the weather does not affect attendance. Furthermore, the main entrances to the event are positioned in such a way that visitors are channelled through the stands upon arrival at the show. The 2002 visitor survey reinforced this:

· 97% of respondents visited the stands
· 87% made purchases
· 27% spent over £100
· 10% spent over £200

'Best show in over 15 years. Attendance was outstanding with a great quality of customer. Every day was a non-stop selling day. Well done to HOYS for a great venue and a great show.' (Urad Saddlery Products)

'HOYS 2002 was an absolute success and we will, without doubt, continue to support the show. The move to the NEC proved to be a great success. We had five days of customers from all over Europe. Excellent!' (Dengie Crops Ltd)

Shoppers will also be able to take advantage of the complimentary collection and drop off point for bulky purchases enabling a more hassle free shopping experience. For a current list of tradestands at HOYS 2003 visit www.hoys.co.uk

For tickets call the dedicated Horse of the Year Show booking line: 08700 10 10 52 or to make a group booking call: 020 8900 9282. Alternatively book online at www.hoys.co.uk where visitors can also find out all the latest news and information on Britain's greatest indoor equestrian event.

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