Grow. Innovate. Connect.
Thank You for an Incredible CONNECT 2026
Thank you to the retailers, groomers, distributors, manufacturers, service providers, and pet professionals who joined us March 4 and 5, 2026 at CONNECT in Niagara Falls.
Over two incredible days, the Canadian pet industry came together to share ideas, discover new products, attend education sessions, and build the relationships that continue to move our industry forward. From the busy show floor to the CONNECT Tool Box vendors and networking events, the energy and collaboration made this year’s event truly special.
CONNECT has always been built by pet professionals for pet professionals, and it is your participation, passion, and commitment to the industry that make the event what it is.
Thank you for being part of CONNECT. We look forward to seeing you again next year.
Paul Ford
"Connect truly delivers. It’s a standout event for high-quality conversations, intentional networking, and a genuine sense of community.
Everything runs seamlessly thanks to the Team Connect crew, who go above and beyond to support attendees. Plus, the experience is top-notch with great food, comfortable carpeted aisles, and social events that perfectly bring everyone together."
Craig MacIntyre
"An absolute success and blast at the Connect Pet Expo! Unmatched networking opportunities and such excellent energy. The professionalism and support from Grant, and his team at Connect make it a perfect venue and experience to connect with new prospects, educate for stronger retail, and catch up with current and old partners. Highly recommend for anyone in the Pet Industry sector to attend."
Codie Bonner
Connect Pet Expo offers a truly valuable and refreshing experience. The environment allows for meaningful, one-on-one time with brands, creating space for real conversations, thoughtful questions, and stronger relationship building. The overall atmosphere is welcoming, collaborative, and genuinely supportive of the pet specialty community. It’s an event that prioritizes connection and quality interactions.
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.
SPECIAL REPORT: The Booming Canadian Pet Retail Industry: Trends, Growth, and Future Outlook for 2025
Date: March 31, 2025
Photo by Tranmautritam
The pet retail industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, becoming a booming sector that continues to captivate consumers and businesses alike.
As more people consider pets as beloved family members, the demand for quality pet products and services has skyrocketed. Pet owners now prioritize not only basic pet care but also premium products, innovative technology, and unique services to enhance their pets’ well-being.
This surge in spending reflects a significant shift in consumer behaviour, with pet-related expenditures reaching new heights.
Several factors have contributed to this growth, including the increasing number of pet adoptions in recent years, a growing awareness of pet health and wellness, and the rise of e-commerce platforms that make pet products more accessible than ever before. Moreover, the pet humanization trend, where pets are treated with the same care and attention as family members, has played a pivotal role in driving the demand for high-quality pet food, luxury accessories, and personalized services.
Looking ahead, the future of the pet retail industry appears bright. Innovations in pet technology, such as smart pet devices and health monitoring gadgets, are expected to continue gaining traction. Sustainability is also emerging as a key focus, with eco-friendly pet products and services leading the charge. Additionally, the rise of subscription-based services and direct-to-consumer business models will likely reshape the retail landscape, making it easier for pet owners to keep their furry friends happy.
2026 Exhibitors
