Grow.
Innovate.
Connect.
Join us at Connect… Canada’s Pet Trade Expo. Celebrating and promoting the growth of the Canadian pet industry with manufacturers, specialty pets live, distributors and more. A business to business show like no other.
Coming May 22-23, 2025
Niagara Falls Convention Centre
Let's Connect.
As a Canadian hosted event, Connect Canada's Pet Trade Expo is proud to showcase the thriving pet industry in Canada, which is known for its love of animals and commitment to their welfare. Canada boasts a vibrant community of pet retailers, manufacturers, distributors, specialty pet breeders and service providers, all of whom contribute to the growth and innovation of the industry. Join us! Let's Connect!
Connect:
A B2B pet trade event celebrating the Canadian pet industry hosted and created with a team that is 100% built with individuals and vendors from the Canadian Pet Industry.
Benefits of Attending Connect
The pet industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with millions of pet owners seeking the best products and services for their furry friends. For professionals within this thriving sector-be they retailers, groomers, or other pet industry businesses-attending Connect can be a game-changer. Here’s a closer look at the numerous benefits these events offer.:
Networking Opportunities
One of the most significant advantages of attending Connect is the chance to "connect" with other industry professionals. Whether you’re looking to build relationships with suppliers, meet potential clients, or collaborate with other businesses, Connect provides an invaluable platform for networking. You’ll meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for pets, paving the way for future partnerships and collaborations.
Hands-On Product Experience
Connect vendors often feature product demonstrations, allowing you to see and feel items before making purchasing decisions. This hands-on experience is crucial in the pet industry, where the quality and appeal of products can significantly impact sales. By testing products firsthand, you can make more informed choices about which items to stock and promote in your store.
Inspiration and Motivation
Attending Connect can reignite your passion for the pet industry. Surrounded by fellow enthusiasts, innovative products, and exciting ideas, you may find yourself inspired to take your business to the next level. This motivation can translate into new projects, improved customer service, and an overall boost in your business performance.
Access to the Latest Trends
The pet industry is continuously evolving, with new trends emerging regularly. Connect showcases the latest innovations, from cutting-edge technology to trendy pet products. Attending the show allows you to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that your business remains relevant and competitive. By observing consumer preferences and emerging trends, you can make informed decisions about inventory and marketing strategies.
Building Brand Awareness
For new or emerging businesses, Connect provides an excellent opportunity to showcase your brand. Setting up a booth allows you to engage directly with potential customers, gather feedback, and create brand recognition. The exposure gained from attending the show can significantly enhance your visibility in a crowded marketplace.
Potential for New Partnerships
Connect attracts a diverse range of businesses, from manufacturers to distributors. This diversity opens up opportunities for new partnerships, whether for co-branding initiatives, collaborative marketing campaigns, or joint ventures. Exploring these possibilities can lead to innovative offerings that benefit both parties and enhance customer satisfaction.
Educational Workshops and Seminars
Connect offers educational sessions featuring industry experts who share their knowledge and insights. These workshops cover a wide range of topics, including product development, marketing strategies, and best practices for customer engagement. Participating in these sessions not only enhances your skill set but also equips you with actionable strategies to implement in your business.
In an ever-competitive market, attending Connect is an investment worth making. From networking and education to gaining insights into trends and competitors, the benefits are extensive. By participating in this event, you position yourself—and your business—for success in a dynamic and flourishing industry. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, the knowledge and connections gained at a trade show can pave the way for growth and innovation in your pet-related endeavors.
Attendees and Exhibitors alike enjoyed all the amenities of the Connect Lounge. A spacious seating area with beverages, charging stations and plenty of seating area for impromptu meetings.
Connect brought 2 days of educational talks to attendees. Visitors heard from Candace D'Agnolo, Pet Industry Network, Pet Retail Helper, Weruva, Instinct, eTail Pet POS and many more...
A highlight of the show was Connect's Fresh Food Showcase featuring a variety of frozen and gently cooked products from many of the Connect Exhibitors. Thanks to Habco for the great looking freezer setup.
Wednesday night featured Connect Live at the Marriott Hotel with the E.Z. Street Band. The evening kicked off with $10,000 in cash giveaways to retailers and exhibitors...oh along with a poutine bar!!