Presenting the 2019 New Products Showcase Winners

When you walked the 45,000 square-foot New Products Showcase at Global Pet Expo this year (15,000 square feet larger than 2018’s showcase!), you were surrounded by the industry’s most innovative, useful and cutting-edge pet products on the market. With over 1,000 entries and more votes cast than ever, our buyers narrowed down top picks to determine the winners. After the ballots were counted, we announced Best in Show, Second and Third place winners at the ninth annual “Best in Show” awards ceremony. Here’s who took home an award, and some serious bragging rights!    

AQUATICS

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Best In Show
Fluval Flex Aquarium Kit
Hagen Group

Second Place
Aqua-Sphere 360 Aquarium
Penn-Plax, Inc.
 
Third Place
GloFish 5-gallon Aquarium Kit
Spectrum Brands / Global Pet Care

BIRD

• 

• 

Best In Show
Coffeawood Tree
Prevue Pet Products, Inc.
 
Second Place
Zoo Med Chicken Banquet Mineral Block
Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc.
 
Third Place
FEATHERGLOW
Volkman Seed Factory

BOUTIQUE

• 

• 

Best In Show
Push-N-Pop for Dogs and Cats
Ethical Products, Inc.
 
Second Place
Bone Shaped Cake Pan in Silicone
Puppy Cake
 
Third Place
Enchanting Night Luxury Dog Bed
Hello Doggie

CAT

• 

• 

Best In Show
Gone Fishin’ Cat Toys
Ethical Products, Inc.
 
Second Place
Corkies Catnip Cat Toys
Ethical Products, Inc.
 
Third Place
INTELLIKATT interactive cat bowl
BeOneBreed

DOG

• 

• 

Best In Show
My Pet Pail
My PetPail by Pet Partners Worldwide
 
Second Place
Fluff & Tuff Spring Collection
Fluff & Tuff, Inc.
 
Third Place
Fromm Crunchy Os™ Dog Treats – Blueberry Blasts Flavor
Fromm Family Foods, LLC

NATURAL PET

• 

• 

Best In Show
Live Cat Grass and Catnip
Bell Rock Growers
 
Second Place
Peanut Butter No-Hide Wholesome Chews
Earth Animal
 
Third Place
Icelandic+ Cod Treats
Icelandic+

REPTILE

• 

• 

Best In Show
Exo Terra Tall Paludarium/Terrarium
Hagen Group
 
Second Place
Zilla Bow Front Opening Terrarium
Central Garden & Pet – Central Aquatics
 
Third Place
Zoo Med Reptile Electrolyte Soak
Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc.

SMALL ANIMAL

• 

• 

Best In Show
SMAKERS Handmade Gourmet Treat Sticks For Small Animals
A&E Cage Co., LLC
 
Second Place
Ferret Finder Walking Vest
Marshall Pet Products, Inc.
 
Third Place
Enriched Life Care and Habitats
Oxbow Animal Health

POINT OF PURCHASE

• 

• 

Best In Show
Llama Mia
SnugArooz
 
Second Place
Super Snouts Hemp Company USA hand-crafted locking display case.
Super Snouts Hemp Company
 
Third Place
molly mutt 10 year anniversary brand center
Molly Mutt LLC

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15 Fun Things to Do in Orlando Before and After Show Hours

Your travel arrangements are made, your bags are packed and you’re ready to attend Global Pet Expo set for March 20-22 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL! Now, all that’s left to do is plan for some well-deserved fun in the sun in what’s nicknamed “The City Beautiful.” In celebration of 15 years of Global Pet Expo, we’re excited to present, 15 Fun Things to Do in Orlando Before and After Show Hours!

1. But First, Coffee

There’s no better way to start the day than with a hot (or iced) cup of Joe. There are plenty of onsite locations at the Convention Center that sell a selection of caffeinated beverages, but for early risers in search of a local favorite craft coffee destination, consider heading to Lineage Coffee Roasting, which serves up unique and quality coffee from around the globe. 

2. Eat a Delectable Meal

Whether you’re in the mood for a burger or salad, pizza or authentic Greek cuisine, head to the Point Orlando to satiate your food cravings.  And for the best dining rates in town, present your Show badge at these select restaurants and save. Meal reservations are recommended, as there will be thousands of hungry attendees!

3. Mix and Mingle

If you’re looking for a good cocktail in a fun and unique setting, Hanson’s Shoe Repair has our vote. This stylish speakeasy takes you back to the Roaring Twenties for an experience like no other. Take note of the beautiful architecture; Hanson’s building may be the oldest building standing in downtown Orlando.

4. Be the Headliner 

Belt out your favorite tunes with help from backup singers and a live band at Rising Star! Located in the Universal CityWalk, this is the perfect place to sing like the karaoke star you are and create unforgettable memories.

5. Shop ‘til You Drop

Pointe Orlando is your one-stop shop for all things shopping, dining and entertainment, conveniently located across from the Orange County Convention Center. 

6. Putt the Day Away

With more than 100 hitting bays, full-service restaurant and bar, and rooftop terrace, Topgolf elevates the golf game to a new social level that’s fun for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

7. Relax and Unwind

Hotels in Orlando boast some of the best spa experiences in the nation. Make a reservation at one of these spas for the relaxing escape you need to take on the return flight home. Might we suggest a foot massage?      

8. Get Lost in the Art

When you’re out driving around, be on the lookout for the amazing murals scattered throughout the city. For the exhibit aficionado, immerse yourself in Orlando’s thriving arts and cultural scene at CityArts Factory, which features new artwork every month.

9. Visit a Theme Park

Orlando is home to seven of the world’s top 20 theme parks! Escape to a universe of fantasy and imagination after walking the Show Floor, leaving you feeling invigorated and inspired. Present your Show badge to receive discounted admission at these select theme parks.       

10. Take a Day Trip

If you have a full day to spare before the Show or are sticking around afterward, consider visiting the Wekiwa Springs located only 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. This beautiful state park is home to abundant wildlife and miles of trails waiting to be explored by foot, bike or horseback and kayaks and canoes are also available on site.     

11. Sit by the Pool

We hoped you packed your swimsuit! A dip in the pool at your hotel is the best pick me up after a long day of moving and shaking.

12. See the Kennedy Space Center

Train like an astronaut and explore NASA’s launch headquarters at the Kennedy Space Center!

13. Explore the Everglades

Meet Florida’s resident wildlife, including alligators and exotic birds, with a trip to the Everglades! Excursion attendees are picked up by bus in Orlando and depart on a 1-hour ride to the Headwaters before boarding an airboat and venturing into protected swamps and marshes. 

14. Ride the ICON Orlando

Unbeatable views of Orlando’s picturesque skyline await you on the ICON Orlando. Purchase discounted tickets online and skip the line at the ticketing office!   

15. Taste a World of Chocolate

The Chocolate Museum and Café is Orlando’s sweetest attraction. From chocolate sculptures and exhibits to chocolate-making workshops and free tastings, this is the perfect stop to satisfy your sweet tooth and learn about the fascinating history of chocolate. 

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Did your favorite Orlando attraction make the list? If not, we’d love to hear from you! SHARE your top things to see and do in Orlando and we’ll add them to our list. We’ll see you at Global Pet Expo!

Time to Pack Your Bags for Global Pet Expo!

Can you believe it’s almost time to join us in sunny Orlando for The One Show to Attend? Before you hit the road or board the plane, you’ll want to make sure these items are in your suitcase. Plus, read until the end to find out how you could win a fantastic prize just for packing your bags!

1. Comfortable Walking Shoes

With over 5 miles of exhibit space that you’ll undoubtedly want to visit, a pair of sensible walking shoes comes in at the top of our list of must-have items for Global Pet Expo attendees.

2. Wearable Fitness Tracker

Not quite as essential as the comfy shoes, but it’s always fun to bring a wearable fitness tracker to the Show. The steps sure rack up quickly when you’re walking through the miles of aisles that make up the Show Floor.

3. Business Cards

You’ll mix and mingle with countless individuals throughout the Show. Make sure your new connections have a way to follow up on the business opportunity you discussed at the Networking Reception by packing a stack of your business cards.

4. Laptop or Tablet

Whether you’d like to take notes during Global Pet Expo Academy or connect with your new network of industry contacts on LinkedIn, consider bringing a laptop or tablet to enhance your Show experience.

5. Warm Weather Essentials

When you’re ready to soak up the sun and explore the lively city of Orlando, consider packing a swimsuit, pair of sunglasses and light, breathable clothing. Sunscreen and a refillable water bottle are also recommended if you plan on spending time outdoors. Golfers are encouraged to bring their clubs, as Orlando is known for being one of the world’s best golf destinations!     

Before zipping up your suitcase and heading out the door, inquiring minds want to know… What’s the one thing you could never leave for Global Pet Expo without? SHARE a photo with us for a chance to win Apple AirPods! To be eligible to win, photos must be posted on public Instagram accounts using the hashtag #GearingUpForGlobal. We’ll announce the winner on Global Pet Expo’s social media accounts on Friday, March 22.

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In the meantime, happy packing and safe travels! We’ll see you March 20-22 in Orlando, Fla. at the Orange County Convention Center for Global Pet Expo.         

Global Pet Expo Social Media Tips and Tricks

It’s time to get social! Whether you’re looking for Show updates, end-of-day recaps, New Products Showcase winners or cute pets on the Show Floor, you can find it all on your favorite social media platform. Use these social media tips and tricks to help make sure you never miss a beat amid the hustle and bustle of Global Pet Expo set for March 20-22 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL.   

Facebook

Like Global Pet Expo on Facebook for the latest show updates and highlights. Back by popular demand, join us as we go LIVE throughout the Show during some of our favorite moments. NEW this year, add the Global Pet Expo photo frame to your profile picture and show your friends you’ll be at The One Show to Attend this March!

Twitter

Follow Global Pet Expo on Twitter and use the #GlobalPetExpo hashtag in all your tweets. These tweets will be live-streamed onto monitors throughout the Show Floor. This is a great way to connect with attendees, live-tweet an educational seminar or schedule an impromptu happy hour after the Show.

Instagram

Follow Global Pet Expo on Instagram for the best Show photos. Use the #GlobalPetExpo hashtag and tag us in your photos and stories for a chance to be featured on our social media channels. Posts using the hashtag will also be featured on the Show Floor monitors. Plus, catch the greatest moments of Global Pet Expo on Instagram Stories! And for the first time ever, you can watch the highlights from each day on IGTV.

YouTube

There’s never a dull moment at the Show, and you’ll want to catch it all. To help you stay in the loop, watch Global Pet Expo TV videos on our YouTube channel for a highlight of the must-see events from each day! 

Snapchat

There’s no better way to share the Global Pet Expo vibe than with a snazzy Snapchat geo filter! In addition to using all the fun filters, Snapchat users can view our geo-story for a behind-the-scenes look at the Industry’s Premier Event.

Global Pet Expo App

As an added convenience, download the Global Pet Expo app, available for iOS and Android devices. Use this handy application to access the schedule of events, exhibitor list and floor plan, connect with attendees and more.

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We look forward to getting social at the Show, both in-person and digitally!

The New APPA Young Professionals Education Breakfast

There’s nothing like a hearty breakfast and a healthy dose of wisdom to kickstart your day! For the first time ever, the APPA Young Professionals will host a special education session and breakfast featuring dynamic speaker and economic expert, Connor Lokar! This free event is open to all Show attendees and is set for Friday, March 22 from 7:45 – 9 a.m. at Global Pet Expo.

Lokar is a Program Economist at ITR Economics and has a knack for relating to the next generation of business leaders. He provides economic consulting services for businesses, trade associations and Fortune 500 Companies across a spectrum of industries. Attendees will receive expert analysis of what to expect from the economy in 2019 and beyond, covering topics such as pet industry trends, business to business activity, trade, labor market trends, inflation, interest rates and more.

As the industry’s only young professional organization, the APPA Young Professionals’ mission is to promote career path development of young professionals in the pet industry through networking opportunities. This event offers attendees a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and gather invaluable insight on the economic outlook of the industry. Don’t miss out on this worthwhile event! Please arrive early as space is limited.

An Inside Look at Global Pet Expo Academy

Are you ready to deepen your pet industry knowledge and put your business on the road to success? Does the thought of learning from pet-retailing’s best-known and most admired leaders in marketing, merchandising, customer service, HR, operations, finance and tech make you happier than a dog who hears the treat bag crinkle?

If you answered yes to any of the above, Global Pet Expo Academy is for you! 

Global Pet Expo Academy, brought to you by Pet Store Pro and sponsored by Hill’s, offers FREE educational seminars on the latest trends and best practices for building and growing a pet business. You read that right—all sessions are completely free for Global Pet Expo attendees! Pre-registration is not required, but we do recommend arriving early as space is limited!  

Every Global Pet Expo Academy session is packed with practical information and expert advice from the experiences of today’s most influential and successful pet retailers. From getting more cash out of your business, building a treat bar, understanding natural behavioral styles and determining what your time is worth, choose from a diverse selection of session topics designed to help you be the pet-retailing guru you’ve dreamed of being.

The 2019 Academy features an impressive lineup of speakers including Pet Boss Nation’s Candace D’Agnolo, Bow Wow Beauty Shoppe’s Leel Michelle, American Pet Professional’s Nancy Hassel, Retail Phil’s Phil Chang and more, each with an important message you don’t want to miss. You can view the entire seminar schedule here!  

We know you’ll be busy moving and shaking, making connections and doing business throughout the Show. When you’re strapped for time and can’t decide on which seminars to attend, check out one of the 15-minute “mini sessions” taking place twice a day on the Show Floor in the New Products Showcase area. These sessions give you a sneak peek of upcoming seminars, helping you plan your education schedule and maximize your time.

And, that’s the bell! Don’t miss your opportunity to gain valuable insights at Global Pet Expo Academy taking place March 20-22 only at Global Pet Expo. Don’t forget to bring a notebook and pen!

Getting to Know Media Honoree Dr. Evan Antin

Each year at Global Pet Expo, we recognize individuals from the media who have the power to influence millions of people and use this to positively promote the joys and benefits of pet ownership. We are thrilled to share that Dr. Evan Antin has been named the 2019 recipient of Global Pet Expo’s annual Excellence in Journalism and Outstanding Contributions to the Pet Industry Award!

Before we get too deep, open Instagram and scroll through the feed to find out more about the doctor and who knows…you may even want to join the other 1.1 million people following Instagram’s most famous veterinarian!  

It may not come as a surprise, but Dr. Antin went viral after being featured in People Magazine’s “Sexiest Man Alive” issue in 2014, and again in 2017. He used his newfound fame as a platform to help save animals, appearing everywhere from NBC’s TODAY to ABC News, The Doctors and more, traveling to countries around the world and making a difference in the lives of animals and humans.

Dr. Antin graduated veterinary school from Colorado State and currently works at the Conejo Valley Veterinary Hospital in Southern California. In addition to his love for cats and dogs, Dr. Antin’s passions lie in exotic animal medicine and educating people about animal welfare.    On March 21, Dr. Antin will personally accept the award during the Purina Media Reception, a media-exclusive event, at Global Pet Expo. But you never know, you might just catch a glimpse of him on the Show Floor. Join us for Global Pet Expo March 20 – 22, 2019 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando to find out… Until then, congratulations, Dr. Evan Antin!

5 Reasons to Attend Global Pet Expo

If you’ve heard of Global Pet Expo before, you’ve also probably heard it referred to as the One Show to Attend. If you’re a newcomer, you may ask why? As the pet industry’s largest annual trade show featuring the newest, most innovative pet products in the market, we assure you that this is THE show to attend to secure a place in the $69 billion pet industry. This is also the first industry trade show of the year featuring more new product launches than can be found at any other industry event (more than 3,000!) Still not sold? Here are five more reasons to attend Global Pet Expo 2019: 

1. Key Industry Insight from Experts

As a member of the pet industry, your business relies on staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices. With over 30 educational seminars to attend, Global Pet Expo Academy offers tips and expert advice from today’s most successful pet retailers. And best of all, the sessions are free!

2. See What’s New

Discover the latest and greatest pet products on the market in our New Products Showcase, where we’ll debut nearly 1,000 products. This year’s Showcase is 45,000 square feet – an impressive 15,000 square-feet larger than last year! Witness as the industry’s most creative and innovative efforts are presented in one central location on the Show Floor. Leave the Showcase feeling energized and inspired by the ingenuity that continues to fuel the pet industry.

3. Networking Opportunities

With more than 16,000 industry members in attendance, the thought of networking at Global can be a little overwhelming. That’s why we kick off the Show with a free networking reception, sponsored by Pets Add Life. Have a drink and a bite to eat with friends, old and new, in a fun and relaxed environment. It’s just what you need to break the ice with that industry contact you’ve been trying to connect with.

4. Get Those Steps in

With over 352,300 net square feet of exhibit space, you are guaranteed to reach your step goal walking around the Show Floor. In other words, that’s the equivalent of 16 football fields worth of aisles packed with the latest pet products just waiting to be explored! So, pack your comfy shoes and wearable fitness tracker and prepare to rack up those steps. (And, totally impress your friends!)

Because Orlando!

The vibrant city of Orlando offers something enjoyable for every schedule and interest. Whether you’re looking for some R&R, a superb dining experience, championship golf course or a chance to release your inner child at a theme park, Orlando has it all. Plus, show your badge to access select attractions and experiences at a discounted rate!

We’ll see you March 20-22, 2019 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando for Global Pet Expo, THE ONE SHOW TO ATTEND!

Don’t Miss the Professional Women’s Network Breakfast at Global Pet Expo 2018!

If you’re attending Global Pet Expo this March, you won’t want to miss the seventh annual Professional Women’s Network (PWN) Breakfast featuring entrepreneur, author and television personality Shama Hyder! This event is open to all Show attendees and is set to take place Friday, March 23^rd at 8 a.m. at Global Pet Expo.

Hyder will share her knowledge and expertise in marketing in the Digital Age. Attendees will learn the five principles behind building a compelling personal brand and how to establish themselves as thought leaders across audiences.

In 2009, Hyder founded The Marketing Zen Group, a digital marketing agency with an emphasis on social media marketing. The Zen Group launched with only $1,500 and the company grew by 400 percent in the first year. Hyder now manages over 30 full-time team members, delivering social media and digital public relations services for clients that range from small businesses and nonprofit organizations to Fortune 500 companies across the globe. In addition to her firm’s success, Hyder has authored five books about marketing, social media and branding.

Hyder has received numerous awards including the prestigious Technology Titan Emerging Company CEO award. She was named one of the “Top 25 Entrepreneurs under 25” by Business Week in 2009, one of the “Top 30 Under 30” Entrepreneurs in America in 2014 by Inc. Magazine, and was recognized on the Forbes “30 Under 30” list of movers and shakers for 2015. LinkedIn named Hyder one of its “Top Voices” in Marketing & Social Media. Her web show Shama TV was awarded the “Hermes Gold award for Educational Programming in Electronic Media” and most recently she was awarded the “Excellence in Social Media Entrepreneurship” award for 2016 by Anokhi Media.

The PWN Breakfast is an opportunity that professionals will not want to miss! PWN promotes social and career development activities that result in greater success for the industry in total, and the breakfast will reflect just that. This event is not open to the public and attendees must wear their badge to access the event.

 

Mark Your Calendars for the Premier Industry Event

Global Pet Expo is happening March 21-23, 2018 in Orlando, Florida.

In addition to the many exclusive member benefits you receive as an APPA member, you also have access to Global Pet Expo, the Premier Industry Event. If you’ve never attended the Show, here are a few incredible facts about last year’s event: 

The thirteenth annual Global Pet Expo featured 343,700 net square feet of exhibit space, nearly 24,000 feet larger than 2016 to accommodate the growing number of exhibiting companies. That’s a lot of space to cover in three days – bring your walkin’ shoes!

Attendance at the premier industry event included 6,761 qualified buyers from 79 different countries – making Global Pet Expo a key trading opportunity for companies around the world. There were also 1,130 exhibiting companies, including 270 first-time exhibitors, covering more than 3,437 booths, giving buyers thousands of new products and trends to choose from!

The 2017 Show also marked the debut of country-specific pavilions. Previously, multiple countries exhibited together in one space on the Show Floor, but the new international model allowed participating country delegations dedicated space throughout the exhibit floor.

Global Pet Expo is the pet industry’s largest annual trade show.  The 2018 Show will be bigger and better than ever and will have everything you need all under one roof, so make your plans to attend today!

The 2018 booth application is available online, and buyer registration and qualification is now live.

We look forward to seeing you at next year’s Show!

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The Premier Industry Event will take place March 21-23, 2018 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. For more information, visit the website.