ETN - Equestrian Trade News - April 2016 by ETN (Equestrian Trade News)

Equestrian Trade News

T h e Vo i c e o f t h e E q u e s t r i a n I n d u s t r y

MAKE A SPLASH... with the latest feed, clothing and safety gear

TEAMWORK! Are you and your colleagues on song?

PLUS • Good grooming ideas • Exclusive CCJ listing • Which is Britain’s biggest equestrian manufacturer? 2017

NEC, EC, Birmingham, UK 22-24 January www.beta-int.com

Main Sponsor

ETN is the official media partner of BETA International

April 2016 Volume 40, No 4 Monthly

T h e Vo i c e o f t h e E q u e s t r i a n I n d u s t

T h e Vo i c e o f t h e E q u e s t r i a n I

View our brand new AW15 Collection now on line www.sherwoodforestltd.com

... the magazine for the industry, about the industry, by the industry

Liz Benwell

NEWS Which is Britain's biggest equestrian manufacturer?...................................................... 6 COVER STORY PRODUCT NEWS................................................. 10 LEGAL DIGEST Why online shoppers can change their minds.... 14 PEOPLE Who’s new, who’s moved?.................................. 16 CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR COVER STORY Can technical be affordable too?........................ 18 Product gallery................................................... 19 How to display clothing....................................... 22 SAFETY FEATURE COVER STORY BETA answers FAQs........................................... 24 Bill Vero: headwear pioneer............................... 26 Pony racing explained........................................ 28 Product gallery................................................... 29 ETN TALKS HORSES With Mel Newman of NAF................................... 33 BUSINESS CONSULTANCY COVER STORY It’s all about teamwork....................................... 34 GOOD GROOMING & FLY CONTROL Sweet itch focus ................................................. 36 Product gallery................................................... 38 RELOCATION DIARY The steelwork’s arrived..................................... 42 BETA MEMBERS’ PAGE....................................... 43 FEEDING FOR PERFORMANCE COVER STORY Product gallery................................................... 44 Fuelling endurance horses................................. 48 AMTRA ACCREDITED SQP CPD FEATURE........... 50 COUNTY COURT JUDGMENTS............................. 54 Equestrian Trade News

TEAM chasing, hunting and polo have always appealed to men. And, as last year’s BETA Conference so clearly identified, our trade needs to get more of that sex into the saddle – and spending. But, unless he comes from a horsey family, it takes a brave ten year old chap to don his jods every Saturday morning and go riding with the girls. So hooray for pony racing which enables nine to 16 year olds to ride in real races on real racecourses. And the lads love it! Find out more in this issue of ETN.

APRIL 2016

T h e Vo i c e o f t h e E q u e s t r i a n I n d u s t r y

Equestrian Trade News

THE Krämer retail catalogue – all 300-odd pages of it - landed with a hefty thump on horsey people’s doormats along with Horse & Hound last month. The German equestrian retail giant, with 27 mega-stores across Germany, France, Austria and the Benelux countries, has arrived trading as Krämer Equestrian Ltd, apparently from a fulfilment house in Paignton, Devon. Was it a coincidence that the Krämer catalogue arrived in the UK the very same week that news came of the Bentham family selling their remaining shares in Robinsons Country Leisure to Sports Direct? We’ll never know. But what we do know is that Frank Schmeckenbecher of Krämer, Jim Bentham of Robinsons and Bengt Höök of Scandinavian retailer Hööks were old friends. It was no secret that they ran an unofficial buying group, sharing sources, suppliers and sometimes even stock. Crucially, they stayed out of each other’s patches when it came to mail order retailing. Even when the internet arrived, the gentlemen’s agreement was still respected in spirit. There was certainly no overt promoting in one another’s traditional territories. One would guess that the ever honourable Bentham family probably backed off from this arrangement when they initially sold 51% of Robinsons to Sports Direct in 2013. That they vacated their desks the day after the Krämer catalogues arrived in the UK is amazing… The exit from our trade of Robinsons’ insightful founder Jim Bentham and his hard-working son Paul seems like the end of an era. Will they be back? I wouldn’t rule it out. Meanwhile, what are the implications for the UK trade of what happened last month? What will Sports Direct do next? Have the Germans acted now with the UK’s EU referendum in mind? Should the British independent retailer be worried? Or should these developments be seen as fair play in an open market? As one prominent retailer remarked: “It’s competition – bring it on!” Time will tell, but there’s too little of it for anyone to sit on their hands.

CONTENTS

T h e Vo i c e o f t h e E q u e s t r i a n I n d u s t r y

Equestrian Trade News

Editor’s Comment

FRONT COVER: The all-action image is by Andrew James, the former editor-in-chief of Practical Photography magazine. Andrew has teamed up with fellow professional photographer and equine specialist Matthew Roberts to run a series of Master Horse Photography courses. Find our more in Product News in this issue of ETN or by visiting the workshops section of Andrew’s website www.andrewjamesmedia.co.uk

T h e Vo i c e o f t h e E q u e s t r i a n I n d u s t r y

MAKE A SPLASH... with the latest feed, clothing and safety gear

TEAMWORK! Are you and your colleagues on song?

PLUS • Good grooming ideas • Exclusive CCJ listing • Which is the UK’s largest equestrian manufacturer? 2017

NEC, EC, Birmingham, UK 22-24 January www.beta-int.com

Main Sponsor

ETN is the official media partner of BETA International

April 2016 Volume 40, No 4 Monthly

T h e Vo i c e o f t h e E q u e s t r i a n I n d u s t r y

News

Krämer catalogue arrives in UK GIANT European equestrian retailer Krämer distributed a 300 page catalogue with Horse & Hound last month. Krämer has been established in Germany for almost half a century and has 27 ‘mega-stores’ in Germany, Austria, France and the Benelux countries. A company called Krämer Equestrian Ltd was set up in August 2015, registered to the address of a Paignton, Devon based fulfilment house. The firm has one director, Frank Schmeckenbecher, who also heads up Krämer’s German operation. There’s also a UK Krämer website which, like the catalogue, is priced in sterling. It offered free delivery on any orders until 31 March. There’s also an on-going loyalty scheme. Prominent brands include Krämer’s own Steeds and Felix Bühler. Products by Horseware, Champion, Bucas, Sprenger, uvex, HV Polo, Ariat and euro-star also feature. “At first I didn’t think too much of it, until I started looking deeper and saw the array of brands that we buy in this country,” said Sue Moxon of R & R Country which has stores in Selby and Melton Mowbray. “l’ll be speaking to suppliers to get their take on it. The prices are very competitive.” Simon Middleton, of Zebra Products which distributes European brands to UK retailers, told ETN: “[Krämer’s] pricing policy appears to be mixed; some products are listed at full UK RRP and some are cheaper. “Their catalogues have a very European feel to them. I am unsure as to how successful they will be over here,” he added. Ariat did not respond to ETN’s request to comment. ETN contacted Krämer Equestrian to ask if it had plans to open stores in the UK. Also why it had decided to enter the UK market at this time. Our calls and emails were not returned.

BESPOKE HELMET HELPS TOMMY RIDE HIGH: Sixteen year old Tommy Lee, who comes from Brighton and has autism, always longed to ride. But his unique head shape prevented him from wearing a helmet. Determined to make his dream come true, academics and designers at the Cerebra Innovation Centre set about creating a suitable helmet for Tommy. Using their 3-D digital scanner, the team created a pattern for the helmet. Their next hurdle was making a working model – and getting it tested to meet the riding hat standard. Gordon Coventry from a charity called Claire’s Project funded the £2,200 cost of the helmet. Then British Standards Institute (BSI) stepped in to do the testing for free against the BSI Kitemark scheme to VG1. “It’s been very rewarding to help develop this bespoke riding helmet for Tommy,” said Maureen Sumner Smith of BSI. “We’re sure he will now get to enjoy many hours of horse riding.” As our photograph shows, Tommy finally made it into the saddle at his local riding school Three Greys in Brighton.

German trade fair moves BACKING A WINNER: A rising star of flat racing has attracted sponsorship from supplements specialist Horse First. Apprentice jockey Nathan Evans (18), originally from Magherafelt in Northern Ireland, had already ridden 16 winners for North Yorkshire trainer Mick Easterby as ETN went to press. Nathan began using Horse First products as a successful pony showjumper. “Nathan is our first sponsored flat jockey and he joins the team of National Hunt jockeys Robbie Power and Paul Carberry,” said Paddy Hughes, managing director of Horse First. “We wish him every success in his future.”

SPOGA horse autumn 2016, which takes place in Cologne on 4 – 6 September, will see the German trade fair move to a new hall. Moving to the roomier Hall 11 will give more scope for individual stand preferences, say the organisers. The new location also offers visitors “optimal accessibility”. Companies already committed to exhibit at spoga horse autumn include Ariat, Bucas, Ekkia, Equiline, Horseware, Kask, Mountain Horse, Passier, Pikeur, Sprenger, uvex and Waldhausen.

ADVERT INDEX

Equestrian Trade News Stockeld Park, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS22 4AW Tel: 01937 582111 Fax: 01937 582778 – Sales Email: sales@equestriantradenews.com Website: www.equestriantradenews.com Publisher: Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd Editor: Liz Benwell Email: editor@equestriantradenews.com Tel: 0345 6185007 Advertising Sales: Nicki Lewis Email: sales@equestriantradenews.com Tel: 01937 582111 Fax: 01937 582778 Advertising Copy: Nicki Lewis Email: sales@equestriantradenews.com Tel: 01937 582111

APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Subscriptions Distributed on a controlled-circulation basis to the retail trade. Paid-for annual subscriptions are £39.95 (UK), £73.00 (Europe), £86.00 (rest of the world). The magazine is independent of all groups. Editorial views expressed in ETN are not necessarily the official view of any organisation or group. Copyright: All material is copyright Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd. Design & Print: G.H. Smith & Son, Market Place, Easingwold, North Yorkshire YO61 3AB Tel: 01347 821329 Fax: 01347 822576 Email: etn@ghsmith.com Web: www.ghsmith.com ISSN 1462-9526

Absorbine.............................................................8 Airowear.............................................................29 Allen & Page.......................................................47 The Animal Health Company................................40 Animalife..............................................................3 Animology..........................................................41 Back On Track......................................................12 Baileys Horse Feeds.............................................45 Battles.................................................................17 BETA International...............................................54 Charles Owen......................................................25 Classified.............................................................53 Equisafety...........................................................31 Exhibit One...........................................................6 Faulks & Cox Ltd..................................................35 Finest Brands International...................................23 Jenkinsons Equestrian..........................................13 Lintbells Equine...................................................11 NAF................................................................7 & 9 Noble Outfitters...................................................21 Saracen Horse Feeds......................................... OBC SEIB......................................................................5 Sherwood Forest................................................ IFC Smart Grooming..........................................36 & 37 Snowhill Trade Saddlery......................................IBC The Spanish Boot Company.................................20 L S Sales (Farnam) Ltd..........................................39 United Sportproducts Germany GmbH..................30 Vettec.................................................................10 Web Directory.....................................................54 Westgate EFI.......................................................27 Zoetis..................................................................15

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Sports Direct acquires Robinsons outright THE Bentham family has sold their remaining shares in Robinsons Country Leisure to Sports Direct. Staff were told of the development on Friday, 11 March. Sports Direct acquired a 51% stake in Robinsons in the autumn of 2013 making the equestrian retailer part of the Sports Direct International plc group. Robinsons, originally Robinsons Saddlery in Wigan, was founded by Jim Bentham in the 1970s. It grew to become Britain’s biggest and most innovative equestrian retailer. It was the first in our trade to run a super-store style outlet, to barcode stock, to pioneer mail order and internet shopping. Currently, as well as its web service, Robinsons has a super-store in Ashton-in-Makerfield in Lancashire with branches in Cannock, Basingstoke, Cardiff and Leeds. The latter opened in December 2014. The ultimate controlling party of the business is now Mike Ashley, by virtue of his ownership of MASH Holdings Ltd which holds the majority of shares in Sports Direct International. Robinsons employs around 130 people and, to the year ending April 2015, reported sales of £14.2 million. Its accounts also state that the company made a pre-tax loss of £274,593 during that financial year. ETN has spoken with Roger Surgay, associate director at Sports Direct, who was at Robinsons’ offices last month (14 March). ETN also contacted Sports Direct’s media agency. Neither was prepared to comment or provide a statement. Paul Bentham, former sales and marketing director at Robinsons, was also unable to comment.

It’s time to put something back, says Frank

Frank Baines (centre) is retiring and handing over the running of Frank Baines Saddlery to his son Garry Baines and daughter Victoria Coleman. WELL-KNOWN saddle-maker Frank Baines is officially retiring as managing director of the company he started 36 years ago. He’s handing over the reins of Frank Baines Saddlery to his two children. Garry Baines oversees saddle development and the workshop, with Victoria Coleman managing sales, marketing and accounts. Retirement will enable Frank to spend more time enjoying his golf, choral singing and playing crown bowls. “He’s never been one to sit and do nothing at home,” said Victoria. Frank is also keen to put something back into the trade he joined as a 15 year old. “I’ll continue to support the Worshipful Company of Saddlers in their work to improve training and apprenticeship schemes in the industry,” he said. “We’re working closely with local councils and schools to raise awareness of our trade. We want to encourage more young people to consider careers as skilled saddle-makers to sustain the future of our industry.” Frank is a Liveryman of the Saddlers’ Company, a Fellow and past president of the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) and Freeman of the City of London.

www.equestriantradenews.com

A HANDFUL of national game fairs is set to compete for tradestands and visitors alike as the summer season unfolds. There are four main contenders to fill the gap left by the demise of the CLA Game Fair which ran for the final time in 2015. • First off is the Field & Country Fair at Cornbury Park, Oxon on 10 – 12 June. This show is run by Time Inc, so has the promotional clout of the publisher’s Country Life, The Field, Shooting Times and, indeed, Horse & Hound behind it. The organising team includes Fiona Eastman, who had long-time connections with the CLA Game Fair. • Stoneleigh Park hosts the UK Game Fair, run by Blaze Publishing, on 22 – 24 July. Under proprietor Wes Stanton, this show has been perhaps most pro-active in attracting tradestands. Blaze Publishing’s specialist shooting titles such as Sporting Rifle and Clay Shooting will help to pull in the punters. • If The Game Fair at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire sounds familiar ring, it’s because this was the intended venue for the CLA’s 2016 show. Run by many of the original contractors, it’s set to go ahead this year on 29 – 31 July. Of the four featured here, this is the only organiser without ready access to its own media channels. Instead they’re majoring on ticket discounts for countryside membership organisations. • Potential media coverage is something Countryfile Live has in spades to plug its event at Blenheim Palace on 4 – 7 August, because it’s run by SME London under licence from the BBC. Almost certainly guaranteed a lifestyle audience from the urban fringe, Countryfile Live has got off to a shakier start with the shooting and hunting sectors, not least by failing to address their main interests. Photo by Bob Hook. exhibit one magazine ad email.pdf

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T: +44 (0)1454 299020 E: exhibit@exhibit-one.co.uk W: www.exhibit-one.co.uk The exhibition and conference specialists APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Which is Britain’s biggest equestrian manufacturer?

R VE Y CO TOR S

Quartet vies for slice of game fair pie

Charles Owen's MD Roy Burek outside the company's Wrexham factory. ETN has set about finding out the answer to this intriguing question. With many variants when it comes to measuring a company’s size, we asked two simple questions: • How many people work for your company? • What is the size in square feet of your factory (or factories)? The outcome on this basis is that Wrexham based riding hat manufacturer Charles Owen is Britain’s biggest equestrian manufacturer. ETN’s findings, in alphabetical order: Abbey England - 50 people and 50,000 sq ft Battles – 130 people and 60,000 sq ft Champion Manufacturing - 55 people and 40,000 sq ft Charles Owen - 145 people and 80,000 sq ft Ideal Saddles – 64 people and 10,000 sq ft NAF – 125 people and 70,000 sq ft Tangerine Holdings – 140 people and 40,000 sq ft Vale Bros – 107 people and 27,500 sq ft NOTES: ETN questioned what we believe to be among the largest UK based manufacturers of equestrian equipment and products. We did not include feed companies. Figures correct at the time of going to press. COMING SOON: ETN reveals the UK equestrian industry’s oldest companies. And this, of course, could include retailers and distributors as well as manufacturers. We’ll be asking the questions, but if you’d like to tell us the date your company was founded, please email editor@equestriantradenews.com GOLDEN SAFETY ADVICE: Ten times Paralympic gold medallist Lee Pearson is urging all riders to make sure they are seen when out hacking this summer. His safety campaign coincides with his new sponsorship deal with hi-viz specialist Equisafety. “Many riders go out hacking not realising how important it is for them to be visible to motorists and other road users,” said Lee. “Safety is the primary focus with Equisafety products and anything that can help prevent accidents to horses and riders is to be applauded.” Equisafety’s managing director Nicky Fletcher is working with another dressage star, Charlotte Dujardin, on a new collection. See Product News.

www.equestriantradenews.com

Prepare for

Magnificent Sales SHOW the WORLD WHO’S BEST in 2016!

Plait it Up keep wisps and strays at bay and create perfect, show stopping plaits every time with Plait it Up. Paint it Clear put your best foot forward with Paint it Clear, a super shiny, quick drying hoof polish for elegant hooves. Make Your Mark creates beautifully shiny quarter marks that last all day. Razzle Dazzle Them catch the judge’s eye on sunny days and shine under the spotlight in evening performances with this luxury finishing spray for super shiny horses and ponies. Oil it Well adds definition and shine to eyes, muzzles, coats, legs and docks with this gentle but high quality oil which highlights your horse’s best points. Brighter than White make white patches brighter than white with this brilliant leg and body whitener. Paint it Black put your best foot forward with Paint it Black, a super shiny, quick drying hoof polish for elegant black hooves.

For more details please call our Sales Office Line: 01600 710 726 or email info@naf-uk.com

www.naf-equine.eu/uk

CLEAN, SHINE and

Pets at Home CEO resigns

DETANGLE

NICK Wood, Pets at Home’s CEO for four years, has resigned. He says he wants to spend more time with his family. Ian Kellett, who previously headed up the company’s retail division, takes over as CEO on 4 April. He is succeeded by Peter Pritchard. Nick Wood will remain with the group in an advisory capacity until 1 July.

LIKE A PRO

Photos: Jon Stroud

THINK BIG: Could this spark a whole new demand for larger tack and pose extra challenges for saddle fitters? History will be made at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in October when, for the first time, heavy horses compete in a ridden championship. Qualifying began at the Shire Horse Society National Show last month. Pictured is Catwg Black Velvet ridden by Stacey Fletcher. (Photo by Jane Muntz-Torres)

“Untapped” UK market targeted by European brand

“I am a strong believer in Absorbine products, and it means a lot to have a trusted brand standing behind me.” Charlotte Dujardin, Olympic, World and European Champion.

OUTSTANDING RESULTS FOR EVERYDAY GROOMING

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Available from your regular Absorbine wholesaler

EUROPEAN brand Cavalor has signed a deal with Zebra Products to distribute its supplements and horsecare brand to UK retailers. Cavalor is sold in more than 50 countries. Its product categories include behaviour, condition, hooves, joints and tendons, muscles, electrolytes, airways, breeding, digestion and care. “As yet the UK market has remained untapped for us,” said managing partner Lieselot Hamerlinck. “And so, with the support of Zebra Products, we are looking forward to growing our brand here, offering solutions to horse owners who really care.” Simon Middleton, managing director of Zebra Products, said: “Cavalor has been on our radar for a while as we’ve seen its popularity and success in other countries.”

www.equestriantradenews.com

NEWS IN BRIEF • Battles has taken on exclusive distribution of pet bedding brand Scruffs. From self-heating fabrics to orthopaedic memory foam fills, innovation is key to the range. • Alexandra Andresen, a dressage rider from Norway, is named by Forbes magazine as the youngest US dollar billionaire on its annual list. The 19 year old is worth £862 billion, inherited from her family’s company which originally amassed its fortune in cigarette manufacturing. • TopSpec is to sponsor the showing arena – to be known as the TopSpec Arena - at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in October. The feed company will also take a tradestand at the show for the first time, running a competition to win £1,500 worth of feed and offering advice. Last year saw 23 TopSpec fed horses win HOYS championships • Westgate EFI is calling for riders and retailers to share photos of their favourite Mark Todd gear to celebrate the brand’s 20th anniversary. Rumour has it that the legend himself will be picking a winner or two from the resulting photo album on the Mark Todd Collection Facebook page. • Companies can have a presence at Badminton and help a good cause by sponsoring one of a herd of miniature horse sculptures. The project is part of World Horse Welfare’s campaign to help ‘invisible horses’ – those transported across Europe for meat, shut in barns for weeks on end or working in deprived areas of the globe. The 7hh fibreglass horses which are available for sponsorship have been created by equine artist Judy Boyt (pictured). They will form an interactive trail for Badminton visitors to follow. • Insurer Petplan Equine paid more than £12 million in insurance claims last year. The most common health problems were arthritis, colic, laminitis, Cushing’s disease and inflamed ligaments. These conditions accounted for almost 20% of all claims. • Localrider magazine is reducing the number of issues per year from 11 to eight. Editor Fiona Rafferty says the move will allow her more time to produce original local stories for the title’s magazine and website. • Online retailer Equestrian.com is to continue its title sponsorship of the Liverpool International Horse Show. Following its acclaimed launch last year, the show organised by Nina Barbour takes place on 31 December 2016 to 2 January 2017 • The new Patey – PROtector riding hat is the result of a collaboration between Patey Hats and Parkgate Equestrian’s helmet brand PROtector. The new helmet meets the Snell E2001 safety standard. • The Royal Veterinary College and Austin Davis Biologics, the company behind EquiSal Tapeworm saliva testing kits, have been awarded a research grant by the Petplan Charitable Trust for further work on equine tapeworm control. Tapeworm infection has been linked with colic in horses.

Introducing New Larger Size w Ne

In response to consumer demand.

1.98kg Five Star Treatment for healthy, flexible senior joints

Senior Five Star Superflex Senior is a unique formulation providing our highest specification of the key joint support nutrients for horses, working in synergy with rich natural sources of Omega 3 fatty acids and naturally sourced antioxidants to support healthy, flexible joints in older horses and ponies still leading active lives.

For more details please contact your NAF Area Sales Manager, or the NAF Sales Office on 01600 710726 or email info@naf-uk.com

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For more details please call our Nutritional Advice Line: 0800 373 106 or email info@naf-uk.com

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Product News Want to promote your business? Then get snapping!

BRITISH Horse Feeds has introduced new packaging featuring quick response (QR) codes for Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet. “As consumers demand more interactive experiences and quick access to product information, we have gone beyond visual appeal to deliver multimedia information,” said Will I’Anson of British Horse Feeds. Consumers can scan the QR codes on the bags with their smartphones for a concise video explaining how to prepare the feeds and the benefits of each product. “Our new website, launched in 2015, is fully optimised for mobile devices and tablets,” added Will. “The interactive packaging compliments this development.” QR codes can also be found on British Horse Feeds’ new product literature, samples and promotional materials.

Supplies guaranteed of new premium bedding METSA Wood, manufacturer of Hunter branded woodshavings bedding, has launched a premium product. MEGASpread is made from sustainable virgin, untreated softwood. Vacuum packed under extreme compression, when the bale is opened the large shavings flakes spring back for fantastic spread volume. The result is a soft, supportive bed. Dust extracted and dried at sterilising temperatures to reduce bacteria and fungi, MEGASpread has low dust and fungal spore counts, so supports equine respiratory health. White MEGASpread flakes are highly absorbent. They become discoloured when wet, making them easy to identify and muck out. Metsa Wood says supplies can be guaranteed for retailers who, in turn, can reassure their customers of continuous availability.

Manage Lameness with Vettec Hoof Care Products! Problem: Horse with moderate lameness Solution: A heartbar shoe was applied to support the intire hoofcapsule. Equi-Mesh was placed underneath the shoe (1). Equi-Pack CS was applied in the back half of the foot to support the caudal region (2). Equi-Pack SOFT was applied to the front half of the foot to prevent pressure to the tip of the pedal bone (3). Result: When applied correctly, the horse will travel comfortably. Equi-Pack SOFT will protect the pedal bone from shock and other pressuring obstacles. 1

APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

R VE Y CO TOR S

Packaging packs more punch

A PICTURE’S worth a thousand words, goes the saying. A good image might also be worth £1,000 and more if it helps you sell more stuff! Taking good photos of horses is hard… but get it right, and you’ve got a great original shot to catch consumers’ eyes and draw them to your website, social media or catalogue. A new photography course has been set up to teach the necessary skills. Scheduled for 22 April and 17 June, Master Horse Photography courses are held at Grange Farm Equestrian Centre, Wittering, Cambridgeshire, just off the A1. They’re led by photographer and photography tutor Andrew James and leading equine photographer Matthew Roberts. Andrew, who is responsible for this month’s front cover of ETN, is a former editor-inchief of Practical Photography magazine. Course participants enjoy a full day of helpful advice and practical experience, photographing horse and riders in a series of different locations and scenarios around the JumpCross course at Grange Farm. Andrew and Matthew promise delegates will come away with a clutch of great action shots and new-found confidence to continue taking your own shots. Master Horse Photography courses cost £149 per delegate including tuition and a buffet lunch. To book, visit the workshops section at www.andrewjamesmedia.co.uk

Therapy to boot THE new Therapeutic Support Boot Air from Italian company Zandona features 18 magnets. It supports the suspensory ligaments and tendons, can be used for travelling and to help decrease post-work swelling. The boot has a padded, wicking CoolMax lining. Spare linings can be purchased separately. It’s fitted with wide elastic straps with Velcro fastenings. The magnets are arranged for maximum effect using the principles of reflexology, says the suppliers. The Zandona Therapeutic Support Boot Air is available for front and rear limbs in black and sizes small to extra-large. Distributed in the UK by Fearns Farm Partnership, the RRP is £163.

On alert for laminitis LINCOLN Platinum Pro Lamin8+ contains nine active ingredients to support a healthy metabolism and hoof function. It features ingredients found by The Laminitis Trust to benefit horses with laminitis, says supplier Battles. The supplement contains live yeast which acts as a probiotic, antioxidant vitamins E and C, L-carnitine and ginseng root which have been shown to maintain glucose tolerance in horses. Available in 2.1kg, the RRP is £29.99. www.equestriantradenews.com

T 01462 790886 E equine@lintbells.com

SKIN & COAT The unrivalled formula for the healthiest skin and a fine, glossy coat NOURISHES HEALTHY SKIN PROMOTES HEALTHY COAT AND SHINE CALMS SENSITIVE SKIN

“I am delighted with your Skin & Coat supplement – there is a clear difference between my five event horses that are on it and the others who aren’t, their coats are gleaming!” Alice Dunsdon, CCI**** Eventer “I could see the difference straight away, really pleased with my horse’s skin and coat condition when being fed Yumega!”

YUMEGA contains specially selected Golden Flax oil, providing the highest possible levels of natural Omega 3 to improve coat condition, providing a rich, natural show ring shine. Carefully selected Starflower is a rich source of the Omega 6 fatty acid, GLA, helping to soothe sensitive skin and support the natural skin cycle to replenish skin health and condition.

Ms S Fairburn 100% Pure Salmon Oil is rich in Omega 3, EPA & DHA, helping to calm sensitive and itchy skin.

Added antioxidant, Vitamin E, from natural plant sources neutralises free radicals to support the natural defences of your horse’s skin.

www.lintbellsequine.com

Product News Memory foam brings comfort to the tack room

New distributor for titanium lorinery

IF YOU’VE ever had the pleasure of sleeping on a memory foam mattress, you’ll appreciate just what amazing properties it has. Now a new range of accessories brings those special attributes into the tack room. The Elico Memory Foam collection is designed to relieve equine pressure where it matters most. Launched to great acclaim at BETA International 2016, stocks have since arrived at distributor Jenkinsons’ warehouse. • The Elico Memory Foam Girth is manufactured with a strong nylon knit facing fabric. It is elasticated at both ends and has self-locating, springloaded, stainless steel roller buckles. Designed for freedom of movement, it features a memory foam inner. This allows the girth to conform to the contours of the horse's body for comfort. In black or brown, the girth comes in sizes 40” to 54”. The RRP is £29.95. • Elico Memory Foam Dressage Girths are bound to be in high demand as this piece of kit is notoriously difficult to make comfortable for the horse. With similar features to the standard long girth, the dressage style – which is equally suitable for use with any saddle with long girth straps - comes in sizes 24”, 26”, 28” and 30”. The RRP is £27.95. • A really useful addition to any rider’s kit is the Elico Memory Foam Girth Sleeve. With an inner of memory foam to conform to the horse's shape and help prevent chafing, it’s easily removed for washing. At 30” long, and in black, the RRP is £14.75. • The versatile Elico Memory Foam Training Roller features ten D rings. Eyeletted straps allow for 18” of adjustment. Memory foam pads ensure a comfortable fit; in one size and black, the RRP is £35.95. • Any headcollar can be transformed into a luxury model with Elico Memory Foam Headcollar Pads. Ideal to help prevent rubbing and release pressure, they simply slip onto the nose or headpiece (crown). The RRPs are £4.25 and £4.75 respectively. • Finally, the Elico Memory Foam Saddle Pad works hard to absorb pressure and improve comfort for the horse’s back. In one size and black, the RRP is £34.50. See page 13.

WESTGATE EFI has been appointed sole UK distributor for Lorenzini titanium bits, stirrups and spurs. With more than 20 years’ involvement in the aerospace, nautical and medical industries, Lorenzini is believed to the first to bring titanium technology to the equestrian market. The Italian made range combines lightness of weight and strength with sleek styling. Last year Lorenzini – which works with riders including German eventer Michael Jung - won a BETA International Innovation Award for its spurs.

Online CPD for SQPs VIRBAC has launched an online CPD module for equine suitably qualified persons (E-SQP). It focuses on the company’s 3D Worming approach and is worth five points to SQPs. Virbac manufactures the Equimax and Eraquell worming brands. Its 3D Worming approach is designed to foster correct worming practices and offer up-to-date advice and information. SQPs who have registered an email address with AMTRA will receive notification from ‘SQP training’ to access the 3D Worming online training module. • More SQP and farrier CPD features are available at www.equestriantradenews.com

prepare Increase circulation

perform recover Support mobility

Reduce muscle tension, aid warm-up and warm-down to help prevent injury

Back on Track’s own unique Welltex® fabric works by reflecting the body’s infrared heat due to the infused ceramic particles in the textile, helping to support circulation and ease muscle tension. UK Stockists Required. Visit our website to download a brochure or contact us at uk@backontrack.com.

Learn more at www.backontrack.com

13 Skin support based on best science

Blue is the colour

YUMEGA Skin & Coat from Lintbells is an oil supplement providing additional support for the horse’s natural skin defences. It is specifically formulated using the best available science to improve coat condition, produce a high shine, help ease skin sensitivities and enhance the skin’s natural barrier. Yumega Skin & Coat contains the highest quality ingredients including golden flax oil - which provides maximum levels of natural omega 3, starflower, pure salmon oil and the antioxidant vitamin E. Lintbells’ products are supported by multi-platform marketing campaigns, literature and point of sale materials. See page 11.

FOLLOWING a Facebook poll of its fans, Likit has added an aqua coloured Boredom Breaker and Likit Holder to its range. Scottish parent company Talisker Bay manufactures Likit stable toys as well as tasty treats under the Stud Muffin and Likit brands. UK distribution is through Westgate EFI and Trilanco.

Charlotte Dujardin inspires hi-viz range HIGH visibility specialist Equisafety has agreed a sponsorship deal with dressage star Charlotte Dujardin. The new partnership has plans to create a new range of high visibility apparel. “Charlotte is very passionate about promoting the importance of wearing high visibility wear and I’m looking forward to designing some pieces with her,” said Nicky Fletcher managing director of Equisafety. Charlotte famously likes her dressage horses – including her top ride Valegro – to go hacking. “It’s really important that high visibility products are worn so that riders can be seen as much as possible,” she said. “I’m really looking forward to working with Equisafety and spreading this message as much as I can,” added Charlotte. (Photo by www.piaffe.co.uk)

Don’t let the grass grow… …STOCK up now on Five Star Laminaze from NAF. The product is a unique blend of naturally sourced antioxidants combined with key gut support, bio-available sulphur and targeted nutrients. It’s all packed into a palatable formula to maintain hoof health and help improve the diet and lifestyle of horses and ponies on restricted diets. Supplementing with prebiotics and live probiotics is recommended for promoting a stable gut environment, says NAF. Naturally sourced antioxidants are present to support a healthy system. Bio-available sulphur (MSM) supports healthy hoof growth and strong sulphur bonds within the laminae. Feeding Five Star Laminaze provides important nutrients for dietary support of prone individuals, especially during times of significant grass growth and on frosty mornings. See page 7.

Legal Digest

WHY ONLINE SHOPPERS CAN CHANGE THEIR MINDS Retailers are under different legal obligations when customers purchase goods online as opposed to in store, warns Saby Sambhi.

hen shopping in store, consumers’ rights are governed by the Consumer Rights Act

2015. The Act only grants a right of rejection or refund to the consumer in the event that the goods are not of satisfactory quality, not fit for purpose or not as described. Crucially, it provides no right to return goods in the event the consumer has simply changed his or her mind; although many retailers do often provide such a right as a goodwill gesture. When shopping online, however, consumers are offered much more protection. The Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 include, most importantly, the right to return an item within 14 days of receiving it. This is known as the 14 day ‘cooling-off’ period. During this time, an item can be returned for any reason including change of mind. While at first this may seem to be unreasonably weighted in favour of the consumer, the rationale is to provide shoppers with extra protection in lieu of the fact that they have not had the opportunity to inspect the item in person. There are exceptions where the ‘cooling off‘ period does not apply. If a consumer has purchased custom-made products or perishable goods, for example, they are not entitled to 14 days’ grace. Where the consumer has exercised his or her right of return under the Regulations, the consumer also has the right to receive a refund on the delivery charge. However, this does not apply if the consumer opted for a more expensive delivery option than that which the retailer usually offers.

Data protection Obligations under the Data Protection Act (DPA) apply to data collecting and processing even where it is carried out online. Inevitably during online transactions consumers will provide and retailers will retain ‘Personal Data’ as defined by the DPA. Accordingly, the retailer is under several obligations in respect of such data including the following: • an obligation not to retain any data which is unnecessary or excessive; • an obligation to ensure that any data held is kept securely and is not accessed by any unauthorised individual or entity; and APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

The boom in online shopping brings with it new obligations for retailers.

• an obligation to notify the consumer as to how their data will be used and ensuring that the consumer’s consent is obtained specifically if their data is going to be used for marketing purposes. While the above are the most prominent obligations which an online retailer has in respect of ‘Personal Data’ held in connection with its customers, it’s by no means an exhaustive list. To this extent, retailers must ensure that they are compliant with all the provisions of the DPA.

Cookies There has been an explosion in the use of cookies in relation to online shopping. A cookie is a small file sent from the retailer’s website and stored on the consumer’s browser. It sends information to the retailer each time his or her website is loaded by the consumer, allowing the retailer to record the consumer’s previous

The cooling off period does not apply if a consumer has purchased custom-made products.

activity and therefore formulate targeted marketing. While this is undoubtedly beneficial to retailers, in accordance with the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 retailers are required to notify consumers when information is to be stored on their equipment. And consumers must be given an opportunity to refuse this. It is therefore now commonplace for pop ups to appear on websites notifying the browser that the website uses cookies and requesting permission from the browser to authorise the same.

About the author SABY SAMBHI is a corporate and commercial solicitor for Blacks Solicitors LLP. Saby trained with a small corporate firm in the City and prior to joining Blacks worked in-house at Capital One and Intraining. Saby has experience in all areas of corporate and commercial work including consumer law, acquisitions, disposals and restructuring as well as dealing with a myriad of commercial agreements. Saby was recently invited on to BBC Radio Leeds to discuss consumer law issues. You can contact Saby via www.LawBlacks.com or tel 0113 227 9272. www.equestriantradenews.com

WOULD YOU PUT UP WITH IT? 15

flies lice midges Deosect is the only prescription product to control flies, lice and midges for up to 4 weeks For further information please contact: Zoetis UK Ltd., Walton Oaks, Dorking Road, Walton-on-the-Hill, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7NS

Tel:0845 3008034

Deosect contains cypermethrin Speak to your medicine prescriber about the use of this or alternative products. Further information is available on the product SPC Usewww.equestriantradenews.com medicines responsibly: www.noah.co.uk/responsible/ ® Registered trademark Date of preparation: 4.15 AH268/15 POM-VPS

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS APRIL 2016

16 •Katherine Tuckley has joined Faulks & Cox Ltd (FCL) as internal accounts executive handling in-house accounts. She gained three national diplomas in equine management at Moulton College before spending four summers in the US teaching riding and breaking-in horses. Katherine has also worked as a groom for the Pytchley Hunt and was dressage rider and trainer Harry Payne’s head girl for seven years. Recently, she’s worked for equestrian retailers at shows and in-store. “To sell Tubtrugs and so many other FCL products I’ve used for years is a real thrill for me,” she said.

• Jessica Balmer has joined Trilanco

as brand manager. Three generations of the Balmer family now work for the wholesaler. Jessica’s grandparents Derek and Sylvia Balmer started the company, with Derek still involved today. Jessica’s father Martin Balmer is Trilanco’s managing director, and her mother Lisa is a director. “I’m currently working with our new brand Clipperman and on new products for our established brand Easidri,” said Jessica. Jessica has two showjumpers and competes up to 1.30m. She holds a BA (Hons) degree in equine business management from Hartpury College, has a UKCC Level 2 coaching qualification – and an HGV licence.

•Country fashion brand Ellis Rugby has appointed Brian Davies as national sales manager UK. Brian has previously worked for Supreme Products and Matchmakers International. Before that, he spent eight years with Joules as retail sales manager. •Congratulations to Zoetis’ equine business consultant Laurie May and her husband Julian on the arrival of their daughter. Elda Jane was born weighing 9lb 1oz after keeping her new parents waiting for eleven days. “She’s doing brilliantly and has already met mummy and daddy's horses who seem to quite like her,” said Laurie who also writes ETN’s Business Consultancy features.

•TopSpec has two new business development managers. Berkshire based Jessica Burbage covers the south of England including Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Dorset. An E-SQP, Jessica has worked for an agricultural and equine wholesaler and in sales for another feed company. She competes in British Eventing. Sarah McAndrew looks after south Cheshire, the West Midlands, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire. Before joining TopSpec, Sarah was yard manager at Swallowfield Equestrian in Warwickshire. She helps run British Dressage shows and competes at preliminary and novice levels.

•Staff and customers at Essex retailer Westleigh’s Saddlery & Country Clothing are rooting for co-proprietor Vicki Clark as she competes in the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships at Hartpury this month (on 6 April). Vicki rides her own Dakota 1 SB (Jack) in the novice freestyle. The partnership qualified for the national final by winning their regional championships at Houghton Hall with more than 74%. Vicki has owned her eight year old, 18hh “gentle giant” Dutch warmblood since he was a five year old. “They tell me Jack can go all the way,” said Vicki. “But I’m just enjoying myself. I particularly love riding to music [freestyle] – it just makes me smile.” Boutique style Westleigh’s Saddlery and Country Clothing, at Ramdsen Bellhouse, near Billericay, featured in Retailer Profile (ETN August 2015). •Stephen Joseph, a director at Grub’s, retired last month after 36 years in the footwear and clothing industry. An Australian, he arrived in England in the late 1970s. Before Grub’s, he was with Protectoplast. “I’m looking forward to my retirement but will miss all my colleagues,” said Stephen who plans to spend more time flying his light aircraft and visiting his daughter and grandchildren in Australia with his wife Wendy. APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

•Horse & Hound’s editorial team has a new line-up following content director Sarah Jenkins’ (top left) return from maternity leave. Alice Collins (top right) has been promoted to development editor, and Pippa Roome (bottom left) is now magazine editor. Carol Phillips (bottom Right) has returned to her web editor role, while retaining responsibility for the news desk. The Horse & Hound office was due to move from London to its new home in Farnborough at the end of last month. www.equestriantradenews.com

www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS APRIL 2016

Clothing & footwear

LET’S GET TECHNICAL ETN explores the making of an equestrian clothing label

aterproof, windproof and breathable are only some of the attributes of so called ‘technical’ clothing. Horsey people also demand stylish, functional and affordable. So how does the US based design team at Noble Outfitters meet this myriad of requirements for the UK and European market?

Can a fabric be truly technical yet still affordable? Yes, by getting the most from fabric selection. Our fabric mills build in technology at a good price so we can pass that onto our customers.

The fabric used in Noble Outfitter’s Elite Insulated Jacket is waterproof, yet so light and slightly stretchy; it’s just perfect for riding. How did you come up with the fabric? We listen to our customers; riders told us they needed a jacket that moves with them without sacrificing warmth.

How does Noble source and test fabric for specific uses? For example, the Elite jacket (pictured) which is already popular in the UK? We use third party testing on all our fabrics, and we have staff with expertise in tactical and outdoor markets. The Elite Insulated Jacket was developed especially for the UK and European market, taking into account that a robust garment was required that would stand up to varied weather conditions. It was important to find resilient fabric that still had a pleasing feel and great wearability.

Technical superstars • Noble Outfitters’ key outerwear jackets, the Elite (pictured in riding shot) and Evolution, are fully seam sealed, waterproof and breathable. They’re manufactured with a specialist fabric the brand developed with its mills. Best quality YKK zips and Prym snaps are used, while well-designed hoods, adjustable hem/waist cinches and internal knit storm cuffs are details that ensure excellent fit and function.

Noble Outfitters’ garments are beautifully finished. How do you achieve this? We expect all our clothing to adhere to high quality and finish despite our competitive price points. Each garment is inspected thoroughly by our quality control teams and wear-tested by customers. We gather this feedback and learn from it.

So consumers are involved in product design too? Yes, we bring our consumers to our office for product development/review meetings. We take their ideas very seriously and many items in our line have come from our customers’ ideas. In addition to the third party testing, we also perform actual product wear-testing. While third party testing assures basic physical standards are maintained, it’s equally important that the fit, design details and functional materials all work in real use scenarios. An example is the zip-in storm skirt/pommel cover integrated into the Evolution jacket.

Getting equestrian consumers involved via focus groups is a crucial part of Noble Outfitters’ development process.

How are each season’s colours decided upon? We research our market plus the fashion market and translate that into a pallet covering fashion and function. While we make sure our colours are appropriate for this industry, we also like to add fun details and pops of colour when we can.

• Performance riding shirts, Gwen and Ashley (pictured right), feature branded fabrics such as Tactel along with Spandex to ensure a sports fit. Stretch mesh back panels and power mesh underarm panels give extra breathability. Opti-Dry technology wicks away moisture. For sun screening, an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 50+ means only 1/50th of the UV radiation falling on the garment’s surface can pass through it. • The Balance Riding Tight (pictured left), is made from 76% Supplex nylon/24% Spandex jersey. This textured fabric feels like cotton with the benefits of light, flexible, quick-drying, multi-way stretch fabric technology. Toray ultrasuede knee patches give good grip yet wash well. Flat seams ensure no friction and the lightweight stretch hem fits comfortably under boots. Opti-Dry Technology UPF 50+ are added bonuses.

APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Layering is the secret The measure of good equestrian clothing is that the rider forgets he or she’s wearing it, says UK and European sales manager Matt Cummins. “For the UK’s unpredictable seasons, it’s all about the three layer system,” he advises. “Start with the breathable Hailey Long Sleeve Crew, with stretch mesh back panels and Opti-Dry technology. Next, layer up with a Lauren Quarter Zip Mock with 10% fleece content and anti-microbial fabric. Finally, top it off with the All Round Jacket….a water and wind resistant stretch soft shell jacket.” See page 21. www.equestriantradenews.com

Clothing & footwear

TOP GEAR! Their feet in your hands…

RETAI L TIP

Along with the patter of tiny feet comes parents’ responsibility to ensure they are correctly shod. The footwear experts at Jama Corporation explain why.

An adult foot has 26 bones, 19 muscles, more than 100 ligaments and matures at 18 years. So caring for the growing child’s foot is clearly a matter to be taken extremely seriously. • Parents should ensure shoes or boots fit well. They should try not to hand down from one child to another – no two pairs of feet are the same. • Toe nails should be straight across and not too short; cutting on a curve can encourage in-growing toenails. • Suitable socks should be selected. Too big, and they will cause bunching and blisters. Too small, and they can cramp the foot. • Footwear with natural linings such as leather and high cotton content socks allow little feet to breathe. • When leather shoes or boots get wet, they should be dried naturally away from direct heat. Filling them with newspaper can help absorb the moisture and maintain their shape.

ETN looks at what’s new for the seasons ahead

Brighter days are ahead

AFTER a wet and dreary winter, the arrival of this season’s warm new shades are set to brighten your customers’ mood. That’s the hot tip from Zebra Products, distributor of a growing stable of top European labels. Colour is key to the Cavallo collection with its Equine Energy and Blue Perfection themes set to turn heads. From PK, there’s a distinctly Hawaiian feel throughout the range offering a tantalising taste of summer. Functionality remains important too, with modern, technical fabrics boasting added benefits such as UV protection, anti-odour, dirtrepelling features and breathability. The PK Graziano t-shirt (RRP £29) delivers a touch of glamour thanks to its floral design and V-neck. This fine cotton t-shirt comes in true blue, French blue, hunter green and blazing orange.

Fit for purpose Parents should invest in footwear suitable for the purpose. So, if a child is going to be riding, a defined heel and appropriate (not too chunky) sole is required. Leather is warm, breathable and therefore comfortable. Riding boots must of course also be sufficiently robust and hardwearing. Easy access for a child’s foot is important to prevent them trying to force their feet into shoes and boots. Zippers, lazy lacers, Velcro and simple poppers really help children put on and take off their own shoes. With warehouses in USA, Canada and Munich, Jama Corporation manufactures a high quality range of children’s shoes and riding boots. With genuine leather uppers and suitable soles and heels, many are designed with zippers for ease of use and comfort for children. Pictured are the Focus, Joy and Bloom styles.

From Cavallo, the Gill (RRP £155) is a great all-round jacket that’s windproof, waterproof and breathable. With a reflective print and attractive mesh lining, it’s available in walnut, blue night and flame red.

The Charlotte Studio Collection Krystal Shirt (RRP £69) is set to shine. With a clever mesh inner on the sleeves, this shirt from Kastel Denmark is in a material that’s antibacterial, anti-odour and offers UV protection.

www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS APRIL 2016

20 Grab their attention!

Stylish, come rain or shine…

THIS bright, sporty jacket from Horze is bound to grab your customers’ attention in store. The softshell Jessica jacket is breathable, windproof, water repellent and lightweight. In a great bold colour - very much ‘in’ this Spring – the RRP is £47.99. Thoughtfully designed for riders, the sides are stretchy, while the arms are lined with the same fabric for useful ‘give’ while in the saddle. Jessica’s tapered waist makes for a flattering fit. A reflective pocket on the front of the jacket is ideal for a phone.

WITH co-ordinating colours, contemporary styling and tempting RRPs, the Sherwood Forest range enables your customers to create a completely new wardrobe each season. Whatever the weather, this good quality yet affordable label delivers ‘the look’ plus the practicality that all riders desire. The back to basics Sherwood Forest Hyland mid-length jacket is a great waterproof, breathable stand-by. This traditionally styled jacket offers warmth, comfort and reliability while out riding or back in the stables. With reflective piping along the front pockets, fleece lining, front zipped pockets and adjustable cuffs, it comes in dark navy or lake blue. The RRP is £69.95

More for men MOUNTAIN Horse is investing more in clothing for male riders. The brand has also launched a new logo, in keeping with its new, modern, softer look. This year’s Spring collection puts the emphasis on the functional under the banner ‘less is more’. “We’ve focused on integrating technical design and technical textiles with a sophisticated, classic look inspired by the season's trends,” said a spokesman. “It's important for us at Mountain Horse that our clothing can be used in many different environments, that our garments are equally suited to the outdoors, the stables and in urban areas.”

The versatile Newby fitted base layer can be worn alone or used as an under-layer. This elegant top has an attractive spotted design with quarter zip front fastening and shaped collar. Made from soft stretch jersey with mesh panel inserts, it’s perfect for the active rider. In dark navy, the RRP is £37.50.

A gilet is every rider’s essential. And this Hartwell Gilet from Sherwood Forest is perfect for layering in the summer months. A useful reversible 2-in-1 garment, it comes in a soft finish outer fabric with stand collar and front zipped pockets. Colours are dark navy, glacier grey and lake blue – and the RRP £59.95.

The Spanish Boot Company

Whether competing or riding at home, the Lulworth Sleeveless show shirt in soft, lightweight stretch fabric offers sheer comfort. With its fitted silhouette and crisp, white stock collar along with Sherwood Forest branded front fastenings and beautiful silver embroideries, the Lulworth is elegant in the extreme. In dark navy and white, the RRP is £31.25. See page 2.

Tipped for the top

0845 3138167 thespanishbootcompany.co.uk APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

THE Dublin Pinnacle Boot from Weatherbeeta comes in chocolate brown and has an RRP of £159.99. This waterproof, breathable country boot has a lacing system and touch tape closure for full adjustment. A cupped heel, arch support and padded heel cushion all contribute to enhanced comfort. www.equestriantradenews.com

21 Country classic is foot perfect

The classic companion

THE Ruscello – new this month from Brogini – is a classic country boot. Designed for excellent traction for walking, a waterproof membrane keeps feet warm and dry in all conditions. This distinctively stylish boot combines chocolate brown grain leather with chestnut nubuck. Available in a choice of three calf widths, the Ruscello can help you kit out customers of all shapes and sizes. The RRP is £110.

IT WORKS with jeans, a skirt or even in the saddle. The Richmond ladies’ hacking jacket from Alan Paine is made in pure wool with a water repellent outer. With a visually striking lining, it has two lower flap pockets and two back vents. It comes in sizes 8 to 18 with oak, auburn and carrot tweed options. The RRP is £239.99

Performance boots for all

Let’s celebrate the summer

GRUB’S neoprene boots are perfect for a huge range of activities. From dog walking to gardening, riding to shooting, this high performance footwear collection enables stockists to sell to the whole family. Warm and insulating, Grub’s boots offer excellent grip with their uniquely designed soles. And there are some fantastic colours available for the new season. International event rider and brand ambassador Ben Hobday says Grub’s boots are great for his horsey lifestyle. “My Grub’s are by far the comfiest boots I own. They’re so practical when I’m on the yard with the horses and brilliant for walking cross country courses.” Grub’s Frostline boots are available in UK sizes 4 to 13 and retail at around £70 per pair.

BR’s summer collection allows for endless combinations. Dark, neutral colours, such as navy and black team up beautifully with bright, bold golden sun and ‘very berry’. Stunning silhouettes - and detail such as subtle studs - give the clothing a luxurious look. The placket of the close-fitting ladies’ polo shirt Pam has three small buttons featuring imitation diamonds while the underside of its collar is lined with glitter fabric. Three small studs add a fancy touch to the sleeves. A sleeveless version, named Paula, is ideal for hot summer days and can be worn under a tailored jacket too. BR, available from Dutch wholesaler Bieman de Haas BV, has co-ordinating collections for horse and rider, plus rugs, saddle pads and horse boots.

Comfort fit ear design for unrestricted movement and insect protection.

G U A R D S M A N ™ F LY M A S K Noble Outfitters expands its range into horse wear with the launch of its revolutionary new Guardsman Fly Mask. This structured mask sets a new standard in protection for horses against flies and bugs.

Heavy-duty UV coated mesh with anti-rub nylon guard.

PROTEC TION Unique patent pending flex spline technology.

DURAB IL ITY Heavy duty UV coated mesh with anti-rub nylon guard.

Flex Spline Technology™ creates a canopy away from horse’s eyes.

CO MFOR T

Brushed fleece on crown and nose.

Brushed fleece on nose and crown for added comfort.

CO VE R A GE Removable nose guard with UPF 25+. With or without ears Black or Noble Gold.

For more information and to place an order, contact matt@nobleoutfitters.co.uk Mobile: +44 (0)7827 948276

Removable nose piece with UPF 25+ protection.

Contoured closure prevents

nobleoutfitters.co.uk insects from entering mask.

Clothing & footwear

Don’t be a display dummy… …Make mannequins work for you. Louise Deery shares her top tips for in-store merchandising.

he ideal layout creates a flow through the store that’s visually appealing and encourages browsing. It should also be easy for customers to find what they’re looking for.

▲ Support mannequins with hanging stock of the featured outfits. Then customers can visualise how the garments will look when worn and shop for them without having to search the store. Well-dressed mannequins also prompt add-on sales by inspiring customers to buy into the overall ‘look’, something that can greatly increase total basket value.

NEED MORE INSPIRATION? TOGGI’S seasonal brochures are packed with tips for creating sophisticated looks. Great lifestyle photography illustrates garments’ versatility and inspires a variety of outfit building options. If your in-store displays are hampered by a lack of space, be creative with what you have. Use good lighting, find props to create talking points and refresh merchandising regularly with new content.

◄ Mini-Me is an emerging trend. Mums are buying scaled-down adult outfits for their children rather than traditional ‘kiddy collection’ garments. For example, Toggi’s A/W16 collection features Mini-Me pieces to complement its ladieswear collection. The Emmie sweatshirt is a take on the ladies’ Lorena; the Sofia polo shirt reflects the ladies’ Skyla and the Coco rugby shirt complements the Renata. Create a hotspot by merchandising childrenswear and ladieswear collections together.

▲ Use displays to appeal to different markets. Develop a story that speaks to customers and connects with their lifestyles. Styling outfits with accessories that fit the story promotes add-on sales too. Make mannequins realistic. Adding creases to elbows and backs of knees, rolling up sleeves and pulling out collars instantly adds life to a mannequin display. Don’t go overboard, however. Make sure outfits are neat with excess fabric pinned away, and that garments are nicely steamed to remove packing creases. ▲ Strong price points attract customers who weren’t necessarily looking to buy a certain garment. Styling mannequins and featuring strong price points can often encourage impulse buying. Meanwhile point-of sale messages such as ‘new season’ get frequent customers browsing the shop floor to see what’s new since the last time they visited. APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR LOUISE DEERY is Toggi’s head of design. She’s part of the team from Finest Brands International (FBI) - home of Toggi and Champion - that won the BETA International Best Large Stand Award for the second consecutive year in January. The awards are judged by representatives from BETA International’s chosen charities. So a second consecutive win for FBI was all the more remarkable because it was judged by a completely different set of people.

www.equestriantradenews.com

WWW.TOGGI.COM

速

protective wear

feaTurInG kOdIaC and kendrICk A REVOLUTION IN ERGONOMIC DESIGN cutting edge comfort and flexibility achieved through revolutionary Seg-Tek construction channelled airflow heat release system military grade outer mesh kendrICk sTeel TOe Cap lOnG bOOT conforms to the eN 20-345 safety standard.

latest high-tech lightweight and malleable foam upwards of 100 forming Seg-Tek panels providing the perfect contoured fit

Features an anti-skid rubber sole with steel shanks

www.championhats.co.uk

Safety

A QUESTION OF SAFETY Our trade faces fast-changing times in safety standards. ETN asked BETA to answer readers’ questions.

The BETA show stand is always inundated with consumers asking for safety equipment advice.

Q. Is it still legal for retailers to sell (BS) EN 1384 riding hats? A. It is not illegal to sell riding hats carrying this standard provided that consumer regulations are met – the hat is fit for purpose and it has not been the subject of misleading advertising. However, it’s important to check a customer’s requirements to avoid selling them a hat with a standard that might not be allowed by a given discipline or activity. In the case of EN 1384, it was the presumption of conformity – not the actual standard – that was withdrawn. This meant that it could no longer be used to obtain the CE mark and show compliance with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) regulations. Q. There were some exciting new body protectors on show at BETA International. Are the more flexible, ventilated designs just as safe as the older, more rigid ones? A. Any body protector that meets the appropriate safety standard – even one sporting a new design – will provide the same level of protection. This is because a standard outlines what is expected from the garment in terms of performance and coverage. Each manufacturer, however, interprets this information and uses it to design and make body protectors from its own choice of fabrics. This can result in a wide range of products, all meeting the standard yet featuring a completely different appearance and feel, particularly as materials develop to become lighter and more flexible. Always check with the manufacturer or supplier that its body protectors meet EN 13158/BETA 2009. Q. Is there a standard for equestrian air vests? If not, if and when is there likely to be one? A. Although a European standard does not APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

yet exist, some companies have been using a private standard developed by the testing house SATRA. Meanwhile, BETA and a group of air vest manufacturers have met several times to discuss the creation of a new standard. This might, in the long term, become a harmonised European standard - in the same way that the BETA body protector standard was developed many years ago. The group has outlined some performance and testing parameters, which it hopes to have tested in the near future along with a draft ready later this year. Q. I worry about selling some styles of country boot to people who are clearly going to ride in them. What’s good advice about the respective sizes of stirrup and boots to avoid a foot being caught in the stirrup iron in the event of a fall? A. Boots suitable for riding should have a small heel and a non-slip sole, but those with deep treads should be avoided. As a good rule of thumb, always allow an inch either side of the boot so that the foot can slip out of the stirrup with ease. Q. Is it worth my while stocking hi-viz products in summer as well as winter? A. There is a growing awareness of the benefits of wearing hi-viz all year round when riding on the road. However, as the weather gets warmer, heavier jackets will be put away in favour of hi-viz tabards and gilets or many of the wide range of accessories now available. These include hat covers, boot wraps and shoulder straps for riders and tail guards, bandages and exercise sheets for horses. Look out for rider gear carrying the correct standard – EN 20471 (2013) for professional use (those working around horses), EN 1150 for non-professional use (leisure riders) and EN 13356 for accessories such as hatbands and

gloves. Hi-viz horse equipment isn’t covered by a standard. Q. Are BETA safety courses open to everyone? As a retailer, what would I get out of attending? A. BETA safety courses are open to retailers – both BETA members and non-members. They focus on the principles of hat and body protector fitting, and give an overview on human physiology, providing an understanding of how a safety garment works, what part of the body it protects – and, equally importantly, what it is not intended to do. Retailers gain valuable skills that will help them to offer an expert riding hat and body protector fitting service to their customers. It is also possible to take the City & Guilds exam in Fitting Protective Horse Rider Equipment, run in conjunction with BETA. This qualification is available to anyone who has previously completed a BETA safety course. It involves written and practical exams. Q. When BETA is out and about talking to consumers at shows this summer, what are likely to be the main safety subjects raised by riders? A. Top of the list will undoubtedly be hat standards as disciplines settle down with their hat rules for the season. People are also keen to ask how frequently they should replace their safety garments. Given the Pony Club’s changed rules for body protectors [BETA 2009 Level 3 is now required for cross country and pony racing with BETA 2000 no longer allowed], with British Eventing set to follow suit in the next couple of years, this will certainly be a hot topic! And BETA’s Riding Helmet Bounty Scheme, run in conjunction with British Eventing, is sure to spark off plenty of interest. www.equestriantradenews.com

INTRODUCING THE

Fian

Preserving the tradition of a supremely elegant hat

MADE IN BRITAIN BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN PROTECTIVE HEADWEAR MANUFACTURERS WREXHAM

Kitemarked to VG1 01.040 2014-12

VG1 01.040 2014-12

www.charlesowen.co.uk

Safety

MAKING HEADWEAR HISTORY… This year’s BETA Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Bill Vero for his life’s work as a pioneer of protective headwear. Bill – who was instrumental in developing the Gatehouse brand – takes us on a whistlestop tour of the evolution of the modern riding helmet.

rotective headwear dates as far back as 500BC, when the ancient Greeks used natural sponge inside helmets to protect the head in battle. In terms of modern advancement however, it was the 1940s before great strides were made in head protection. And these developments were largely driven by the eminent neurosurgeon Sir Hugh Cairns. In 1941, Sir Hugh published a definitive article in the British Medical Journal in which he related the behaviour of safety helmets to head and brain injury. He was to become a key figure in the development of protective headwear, having been profoundly affected after treating T. E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) for what were ultimately fatal head injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. While helmets then featured a hard outer shell and concussion tapes, Sir Hugh indicated that “between the outer shell and the lining there is a gap which may with advantage contain some energy absorbing material.” A colonel in the Royal Army Medical Corps, Professor Cairns was a driving force in making crash helmets compulsory for army despatch riders as early as 1941. A subsequent surge in motorcycling saw the world’s first performance standard for protective headwear published in 1951 by British Standards, BS2001. This was a new concept and introduced product performance testing using a static test rig. It was not until 1963 that the first riding helmet standard was issued. It used the same static test as the motorcycle helmet standard, with test impacts being towards the crown of the helmet, based on the assumption that the rider tended to fall head down. Thin cork padding was used and the draw lace in the headband gave sufficient clearance internally. Fibreglass shells were slowly replacing the old original felt and goss* bodies. The peaks were rigid and chin straps elastic; the first thing the wearer would do was cut off the strap! APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

harness. The shell was strong glass fibre laminate with thick cork shock-absorbing padding and adjustable webbing concussion tapes. The harness featured a chin cup and quick release hook. Importantly, the jockey was no longer

The first thing the wearer would do was cut off the elastic chin strap! Women making goss helmets in 1954.

The first British hat standard for riders was followed by the standard for jockey skulls. This resulted from a Jockey Club investigation into accumulative brain injury – jockeys’ caps were then as lightweight as possible since they weighed in with them. Consequently, in the mid-1960s, I worked with Brigadier Tony Teacher, the National Hunt Committee, surgeons and top jockeys, including Brough Scott, to develop the original fibreglass jockey skull. The committee paid particular attention to the specialist needs of a competition helmet, with a higher impact and penetration test, a deeper shape, especially at the rear and side, and a stronger, more stable four- point

In 1964, the Everoak Jockey Skull was the very latest in head protection.

required to weigh in with these new helmets; a huge step forward in equestrian head protection representing radical change. Although coming under future criticism, it was the forerunner of all modern equestrian helmets and did sterling work in preventing injury or death to many riders. Over time, equestrian standards would gradually increase in their structure and performance requirements. The rigid peak and chin cup were dispensed with and, ultimately, polystyrene liners brought about a major improvement in shock absorption. In the motorcycle standard, the development of a new test rig allowed testing that was much more representative of the actual dynamics of an accident. It also tested lower on the side of the helmet; an area that had been neglected in equestrian helmets. These shortcomings were about to be exposed in a variety of ways during the 1980s. Esther Rantzen in her That’s Life television programme criticised the riding cap standard, saying that the jockey skull was much safer to wear. There was an immediate reaction to this powerful publicity and the market changed almost overnight with a huge demand for jockey skull caps. This was followed by Jane Davies, whose www.equestriantradenews.com

27 son Mark died while competing at Burghley in 1988, becoming a spokeswoman for improved head protection and founding the Mark Davies Injured Riders’ Fund. In 1989, Michael Whitlock and Nigel Mills published their article on medical research into head injuries in horse riders. It clearly illustrated the need for additional protection at the lower edge of equestrian helmets. The pressure was now on to develop a higher standard of protection using the more modern test rig. At the same time, a European standard was being discussed. Due to concerns about the timescale for an EU specification, a UK committee was formed to bring forward a specification for an upgraded

The first motocycle helmet standard appeared in 1951, but it was 1963 before an equestrian equivalent was issued. This British Standards test rig is from 1958.

standard: PAS 015. The standard required uniform shock absorbing padding right to the edge of the shell, the impact test sites were lower down the helmet ensuring good performance over the complete helmet area, there was a hazard anvil test to replicate the kick of a horse, an increased penetration test and a new lateral rigidity test (compression) to represent being rolled on by a horse. All this, of course, meant bigger helmets and new fitting requirements. While the UK market

A Gatehouse HS1 on a modern test rig.

adapted to larger PAS015 hats, the European committee was not as receptive to the bulkier helmets and a slightly lower test requirement, EN1384, was agreed in 1996. The UK’s long history of helmet testing and certification, and the experience of its technical committees, have tended to work very effectively. In the EU, however, the EN helmet committees are far larger with all the member nations represented. With such a diverse set of opinions, it’s more difficult to get harmonious agreement and achieve change – as has been demonstrated by the recent indecision and subsequent withdrawal of EN1384. The American Snell Foundation, on the other hand, is an independent organisation which can react quickly to change. It’s also worldrenowned for setting a high bench mark for its performance requirements. Snell also has a different approach to audit testing, by buying the Snell approved product in the market place rather than directly from the manufacturer. From the start of the twentieth century to today, the world we live in has rapidly changed together with our medical knowledge of the devastating effect of head injury and the need for head protection. One of the most important parts of rider safety, however, remains the correct fit and care of the helmet and harness. *Goss: cotton twill, dipped in shellac boiled in water and ammonia, which was then laminated onto a felt hood and pressed to shape in a heated mould.

Safety

FAST, FURIOUS FACTFILE • Pony racing has been officially established in the UK since 2004 and run by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) since 2007.

AND FUN…

ETN discovers the exciting equestrian sport that’s keeping boys riding. The Conditions Final at York Racecourse introduces new jockeys to the Racecourse Series. It’s open to ponies and riders who’ve been unplaced in the Racecourse Charles Owen Final in the last two years.

harles Owen has supported pony racing for the past ten years. It’s a perfect fit with the helmet manufacturer’s quest to promote safer riding. “Before we got involved, pony racing had stopped in the UK because it was considered too dangerous,” said Roy Burek, Charles Owen’s managing director. “The Irish had carried on with it though and it was quickly becoming apparent that the young Irish jockeys were outriding the young UK jockeys because they were getting so much more experience.” Already, pony racing has produced a raft of talented young jockeys ready to follow solid careers in the industry as well as make sporting headlines. “There’s no other sport which you can’t start until you’re 16 [the minimum age for race riding under rule], and that’s very late,” said Roy.

Sophie Smith and Push the Button won the 2015 138cm Charles Owen Series Final at Aintree Racecourse. Overall, boys outnumber girls.

APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

He applauds the UK pony racing scene for giving young jockeys access to racing school training. They also ride in real races on real racecourses during real race days, and go through the weighing room, paddock and parade rituals just like their seasoned counterparts. It’s a priceless experience and enormous fun too; not to mention living the dream of becoming the next Frankie Dettori or Ryan Moore. Importantly, pony racing is giving boys who often feel out of place at the local riding school - a reason to carry on in equestrianism, something the entire industry needs. “When I’ve been pony racing, so many parents come up and thank me for keeping their sons interested,” said Roy, “And it’s great that it’s more than 50% boys.” Clarissa Daly, Pony Racing Authority (PRA) chief executive, is keen to keep the sport open to all young riders, with or without their own ponies. She’s also quick to emphasise that Charles Owen’s backing of pony racing has been crucial to its development in the UK. “Without Charles Owen’s support from the beginning, we wouldn’t have the wellregulated, popular sport that pony racing is now,” she told ETN. “We’re doing what we set out to do – producing jockeys of the future and making racing more accessible. But none of this could have been achieved without Charles Owen backing us and supporting us from the beginning.

• The PRA runs 79 fixtures at point-topoint meetings and 27 at racecourses which are known as the Charles Owen Series. Two or three races are run before or after the main programme. The Pony Club also runs around eight stand-alone pony racing fixtures. • Although some betting does take place on pony racing - entirely legally, it’s not encouraged or endorsed by the PRA. • Pony racing is open to boys and girls. Anyone can take part so long as they are aged nine to 16. The Charles Owen Series run on racecourses is open to 11 to 16 year olds. All jockeys must be members of the PRA. • In 2015, PRA membership was 51% boys, 49% girls. • There are schemes for children who don’t have their own ponies to make it possible for them to participate. • All types of pony can be used, from Shetlands to thoroughbreds. Races are categorised by pony height; most are for ponies measuring 138cm and under and 148cm and under. There are some races for 128cm and under ponies. Heights are verified by Joint Measurement Board (JMB) height certificates. • Pony racing jockeys must wear a helmet and body protector. The minimum safety standard requirements are the same as for Pony Club activities. So helmets must meet PAS 015: 1998 or 2011 with BSI Kitemark, VG1 with BSI Kitemark, Snell E2001, ASTM-F1163 2004a with SEI mark or AS/NZS 3838 1998, 2003 or 2006. Body protectors must meet BETA Level 3; air vests, if worn, must be in addition. Pony Club medical armbands must be worn when racing. No other specialist kit is required. • To find out more, visit www. ponyracingauthority.co.uk or email ponyracingauthority@thejockeyclub. co.uk. www.equestriantradenews.com

BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY ETN looks at the latest in personal protection for equestrians.

Busting the air vest myths

Outlyne Tried & Tested Body Protection

THE MYTH: Air vests are dangerous because when they ‘go off’ the noise spooks the horse. THE FACT: SATRA Technology, the world-renowned testing organisation, carried out in-depth research into air jacket noise before creating the SATRA M38 and M39 standards [that all Point Two garments meet]. As part of the study, sound bites were taken during a race meeting. This revealed that the sound of the vest going off was quieter than the noise of the horses galloping by, the horses jumping over fences and much quieter than the tannoy speaker. That being said, you can never rule out a horse getting spooked by anything. We’ve heard from some riders that their horses have galloped off after a fall. But what happened before air jackets were invented? Most riders will agree that horses generally gallop off after a fall, it’s their natural instinct. THE MYTH: It takes less time for a rider to hit the deck than it does for the air vest to inflate. THE FACT: We’ve always insisted that speed of inflation is crucial and worked hard to achieve this. That’s why Point Two air jackets now inflate between 60 and 80 milliseconds. THE MYTH: If the lanyard is too long, the airvest won’t go off in the event of a fall. THE FACT: This is correct; the airbag system cannot be activated until the activation distance (full stretch of the lanyard) and activation force are both reached. It’s also really important that the lanyard is attached using the saddle attachment and not the D-rings on the saddle. THE MYTH: If a rider falls into water while wearing an air vest, he or she could drown because they’ll be unable to stand up. THE FACT: Since launching in 2009, Point Two has sold more than 60,000 vests and with other air jacket brands now available, there must be at least 100,000 on the market. Yet we have yet to hear of anyone drowning! All Point Two air jackets are fitted with a bleed valve. Once inflated, the jacket holds you tight for 15 to 20 seconds and then slowly deflates. As part of the SATRA M38 standard, extensive testing was carried out to ensure our air jackets do not restrict movement when inflated. THE MYTH: Air vests are too technical, complicated and expensive for the average equestrian retailer to stock. THE FACT: Point Two currently has approximately 200 stockists in the UK alone. All new retailers receive comprehensive product training, and continue to receive regular refresher training from our team of Point Two specialists.

www.equestriantradenews.com

My Airowear is flexible and comfortable, allowing me to perform at my best while keeping me safe. Harry Meade

www.airowear.com

Photo credit: Jon Stroud

Rumour sometimes surrounds the use of equestrian air vests – so ETN asked the experts at Point Two to set the record straight.

Perfect Protection

30 £2.3 million EC funding secured

Helmets for every horsey head

EquiAirbag®

VZERO

USG EquiAirbag® VZERO

For more information:

www.equiairbag.de

A GROUP of which Charles Owen is a member has received £2.3 million to research head trauma. The hat manufacturer is one of six academic and commercial partners in the HEADS project. The consortium was formed with the goal of understanding and preventing head injury. The funding, from the European Commission's Marie Sklodowska-Curie Programme, has enabled the group to take on 13 PhD students to conduct a three-year investigation into head injury and helmets. Charles Owen’s managing director Roy Burek (pictured) has long been an advocate of researching ways to mitigate head injury with wearable, comfortable, up-to-standard helmets. Recent collaborations with other sports include Charles Owen working with the National Football League (NFL) in America.

OUR action photograph shows top eventer Oliver Townend wearing the Gatehouse RXC1. The helmet is just one of a range developed by Westgate EFI’s (WEFI) Gatehouse brand to suit all equestrian activities. Collection highlights include the HS1 Jockey Skull – a long-time eventers’ favourite, and the new Jeunesse, a VATfree, young rider helmet with a velvet or glitter finish. Also new is the Gatehouse Challenger. This peaked helmet with excellent ventilation carries the Kitemark and both PAS015 and SnellE2001. Ventilation is a highlight of the new Air Rider MkI1. Meanwhile, the Conquest MkII hits the shelves next month having been redesigned to meet PAS015. See page 27.

Choice of competition-legal helmets

New era of body protection

USG Eco Flexi

Available in the UK in all well-assorted Stores or USG UK Marylise Silk 07590714539

www.usg-reitsport.de

THE new Ti22 heralds a new era in body protector comfort and protection from Champion. Made from lightweight, malleable foam, each panel in the Ti22 has been punched with airflow holes. Along with the garment’s channelled construction, this help dissipate unwanted heat. The body protector has at least 100 flexible sections to mould to the riders’ shape and flex with his or her movement. The Ti22 also features heavy duty YKK zips, a breathable, military grade outer mesh and a soft titanium coloured inner lining. Available for delivery from early next month (May), it comes in nine sizes from children’s extra-small to adults’ extra-large with a choice of back lengths – short, regular or long. The RRP is from £95 to £160. See page 23.

ALL Champion hats and helmets are certified to PAS 015 or VG1 01.040 201412, giving your customers a wide choice of competition legal headgear. The new Champion Air-Tech Plus has an efficient ventilation system and is Kitemarked to VG1. A removable inner liner wicks away moisture. The Air-Tech Plus features an adjustable head sizing ring. This allows it to accommodate a range of head sizes and shapes (from 6 ¼ to 7 ½) in just three models – small, medium and large. See page 23. www.equestriantradenews.com

31 Tracking device seeks UK retail outlets RIDING can take you to wonderful, wild places. But what if a lone rider falls off and is unable to call for help? And how about the awful sight of a loose horse galloping off? Ridersmate is a safety tracking device. On the market for under a year, it’s nevertheless selling in 13 countries to mountain bikers, cyclists and motorcyclists. And now it’s available to UK equestrian retailers. Ridersmate automatically informs loved ones and emergency contacts of a fallen rider’s location. They receive via text a longitude and latitude, the speed the rider was going, plus an embedded map link to Google Maps showing exactly where the rider is to be found. The unit attaches to a saddle, with a detachable jack plug that tethers to a belt loop or an item of clothing. Should the rider fall, the jack plug detaches from the Ridersmate unit, automatically sending out an emergency message to the chosen contacts. To cancel the response, you can simply reattach the jack plug to the unit, which will send a second message informing your contacts that all is well. The unit can also locate a loose horse. The Ridersmate unit is programmed from the Ridersmate APP (free from APP stores) directly to

your phone. The unit is powered by a re-chargeable battery, with at least 18 hours battery life, and a pay-as-you-go SIM card. £10 credit should last a year or two. “Ridersmate has already saved many lives and many more from permanent injury by getting the emergency services to them in the shortest time possible,” says founder David Coleman. Ridersmate also records ride routes. And, when not riding, it also acts as a tracking system for assets. For example, attach it to a horse trailer or saddle, and should the item move more than 500m in any direction, you receive an alert message with its location. “As a rider who’s had a couple of falls, I know what it’s like to be laying on the ground unable to use my hands to make a call,” said David. “That’s why I designed Ridersmate, it makes the call for you.”

Kicking squashed toes into touch

TWO new boots from Toggi are designed to enhance safety around the stable yard. The long Kendrick and jodhpur style Kodiac are made with steel toe caps conforming to the EN 20-345 safety standard. Other features are anti-skid rubber soles with steel shanks. Both come in sizes 36 to 45. See page 23.

32 A passion for safety

Hi-viz is funky and fun too

SNOWHILL Trade Saddlery is determined to ensure that every rider can be as safe and comfortable as possible. Made in Europe from nubuck leather, Rhinegold Tec Steel Toe Safety Boots are high quality safety footwear. The sole is certified as anti-slip, while the toe cap holds the highest European standard. The Rhinegold Pro-Comfort body protector features much smaller than usual segments of padding for a comfortable feel with great flexibility and freedom of movement. It’s also light in weight - but without compromising on safety. Double Velcro fastenings with coloured safety markers ensure maximum closure, while there’s an easy clip-in belt with elasticated straps to the front. Meeting BETA 2009 level 3, the Rhinegold Pro-Comfort body protector is available in adults’ sizes small, medium, large and extra large and children’s sizes small, medium, large and extra large.

WEARING fluorescent, reflective gear is just as important when hacking in Spring and summer as in winter, a hi-viz specialist is reminding riders. It can be fun to wear and look funky too! Indeed, bright block colours are tipped by fashion aficionados to be ‘in’ this season. “Going without that splash of hi-viz is not a good idea,” says a spokesman for Equisafety, “especially when a horse and rider can be difficult to see while riding down a leafy lane on a bright sunny day. “Think how hard it is when driving yourself to see every detail when going from shady areas to bright ones. And then there’s the low but bright sun, dazzling drivers at either end of the day.” Equisafety has a vast range of items for riders who are out in all weathers, as well as for their horses. The company has a Spring safety-fashion hint too: “Make yourself visible and funky by mixing up your hi-viz colours to raise awareness of your presence.” See page 31.

Entry level body armour The Rhinegold Pro Riding Hat, which meets PAS 015, is ventilated for a through-flow of air to keep the rider’s head cool. It features a removable, washable liner for comfort and hygiene too. With a soft, suede style Coolmax lined harness, it comes in sizes 6 3/8 to 7 1/2 in black. New colours for 2016 are navy and black/grey.

The Rhinegold Glitter Pro Riding Hat (PAS 015) is ventilated, features a removable, washable liner and soft, suede style Coolmax lined harness. With a glamorous glitter panel, it comes in sizes 6 3/8 to 7 1/4 in black and – new for 2016 – navy too.

The boots are Thermy-Tex lined to absorb moisture and odour, something that also prolongs a healthy environment on the interior. Available in UK sizes 4 to 12 including 5 ½, it comes in black or brown. See page 55.

APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

WESTGATE EFI has added the Profile body protector to its Rodney Powell range. The new, entry level body armour is lightweight, flexible and competitively priced. Aimed at the junior and amateur market, it conforms to EN13158, BETA Level 3. The Rodney Powell Profile is adjustable, with a front zip fastening and wipe-clean stretch polyester outer. It comes in black in children’s sizes extra, extra small through to adult medium. See page 27.

Roadwork made brighter WHEN riding or driving their horses on the roads, your customers can make themselves more visible with reflective, fluorescent Golly Galoshes. Comfortably worn over boots or bandages – while keeping them clean too – these equine gaiters come in bright colours as well as formal navy and black. With hook and look fastenings, full length zips and generous reflective strips, they’re fast and easy to put on. www.equestriantradenews.com

ETN Talks Horses

Enjoy the latest in the series in which ETN chats to people in the trade about their horses.

Mel Newman Brand manager for supplements and horsecare products manufacturer NAF

Mel Newman with

d.”

Jarl. “We just clicke

Please introduce your favourite horse. Jarlath, affectionately known as Jarl or Pants, is my best friend and confidant. There’s nothing I can’t tell him. He’s a seven year old, 16.3hh, tricoloured Irish sports horse. He’s very striking – and, boy, does he know it! He always gets comments on his looks when we’re out and about. He had been known to be a bit of a tricky customer in his younger days, but he’s been nothing but brilliant since we’ve been together. We just click. And do you have a famous favourite? What with me being Dutch and a dressage enthusiast, it would have to be the legendary KWPN Totilas. So many fantastic horses have come from Holland, so this was a really tough choice. But watching Edward Gal and Totilas together was to see poetry in motion. What do you and Jarl enjoy doing together? Jarl has had some treatment recently so we’re taking his recovery slowly to build up his strength again. When we’re fit, we’re hoping to get back into what we love which is dressage. We love going to a party [a show], but right now he’s my hacking partner in crime! How often do you get to ride? I try to ride and spend time with Jarl every day. I’m very lucky to be at a fantastic livery yard that takes excellent care of him when I’m not able to. What’s your management mantra? Let horses be horses with regular turnout and access to grass. Horses need a chance to stretch their legs, mooch about, eat and socialise. This is my biggest management mantra, as is mixing up their training schedule to keep things exciting and fresh.

www.equestriantradenews.com

What are your top three equestrian products? 1. NAF Five Star Superflex Senior – an absolute musthave. Superflex Senior is totally brilliant; I can really see and feel a difference in Jarl since he has been on it. After his rest period, I was able to jump on board a month earlier than planned! It’s not just for senior horses but also horses that have a bit more joint mileage on the clock. It is comforting to know that he is getting the best nutritional support to improve his performance. We would not be without it. 2. Casco Mistral helmet – it’s the most comfortable helmet I’ve ever had. I like that I’m safe without compromising on style and the interchangeable coloured piping is fun. 3. Hunter Balmoral wellies – they were a Christmas present from my parents and are amazing. They’re warm, waterproof, look smart and have a sole that is stirrup safe. I’m totally lazy when it comes to changing my footwear at the yard so these are ideal, particularly in rainy South Wales. I even wear them to the rugby! What are your equestrian ambitions? It used to be a career in the equestrian industry, and now I’m so happy to be able to say that this ambition has come true. I love working at NAF. From a riding perspective, one day I’d love to sport a top hat and tails and ride a prix st georges test. That really would be the icing on the cake. What do you lo ve about having a horse? Being outdoors and active is a huge aspect of my love for horses. Also gaining the trust of such a big animal and training through the levels gives me a real buzz. That and kissing their noses! If you’d like to talk horses with ETN, please get in touch via editor@equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS APRIL 2016

Business Consultancy

IT’S ALL ABOUT

TEAMWORK

Are you and your colleagues singing from the same hymn sheet? Or do egos and office politics get in the way of running a profitable business? Laurie May looks at teamwork – and how to achieve it.

t’s hugely rewarding when a team pulls together and works seamlessly. So, how do we know what a great team looks like? And how do we work out how to improve our own teamwork? There are four key components for effective function within a team: Commitment: Taking a stand for collective team results, acting out of integrity and operating from a stance of ‘whatever it takes’ within guiding boundaries. Contribution: Giving fully of oneself to others, finding ways to trust in each team relationship, and bringing what is wanted and needed to the group as a whole. It is also calling one another to account when necessary. Authenticity: Being honest with oneself and others, communicating without facades and expressing vulnerabilities and areas where one needs help. Responsibility: Owning it all - the good and the bad results, not blaming others, and bringing possibility to every situation. Sound easy? The truth is that teams are not born as brilliantly coordinated performers; instead they go through many stages of development. Having the ability to diagnose which stage, and make appropriate interventions will help you get the most out of your team. These are the stages of team development: Forming: When a team first comes together, members begin to explore their purpose, roles and how they fit. Team members behave quite independently and are usually more focussed on themselves. The leader can help by facilitating introductions,

on roles and responsibilities is needed. Remember though, we cannot see a person’s belief set or skill set at first glance. What we can see are the behaviours they exhibit. We would expect a person’s behaviour to be in line with their skill set and beliefs. Understanding what drives behaviour at work is key to getting a team to perform at its best. Equally, while we may not particularly like a fellow person within a team, we can control how we behave towards that person within the work environment. This encourages the team to focus on their behaviours with one another in a professional and objective manner rather than subjectively ie. driven by their beliefs. To further analyse your team, consider using the model on the next page. Ask each member of your team to give a score for each area. Things to look out for: • Are there general themes emerging in the scores eg. is one area particularly low or high? • Are there any one-off outlying scores eg. maybe

Cartoon by John May.

Personal liking, or a harmonious relationship, are not essential for good teamwork. running team building events, and most importantly, clearly explaining the purpose of the team. Storming: Conflict can arise during this stage of team development between one or more team members as the group sorts itself out and becomes more functional. This phase is inevitable and essential to enable the team to perform in the future. The leader can help by clarifying and reflecting ideas and handling and moderating conflicts. Norming: The team now begins to share ideas, thoughts and beliefs. The team begins to trust one another. The leader can help by clarifying ideas and ground rules, and encouraging more reticent people to participate. Performing: The team starts to work together

APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

to a high level. By now, team members have high knowledge levels and all will be exhibiting the desired behaviours. The leader’s role is to keep the group focused and to encourage and facilitate as necessary. Changes during this stage can move the team back into the storming phase.

Developing correct team behaviours The most effective way to improve teamwork is to drive the right behaviours within the team. This may sound bizarre, as we all like to get along with our team members; but personal liking, or a harmonious relationship, are not essential for good teamwork. What matters is that the behaviour used leads to optimal performance.

Team analysis In analysing team and team members’ current behaviours, the outcome may be that an individual requires skills training. Or it may be that you need to challenge their own beliefs around their role or capability to do the role, in order to identify a skills or confidence gap. It may be that further clarity

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Trust Trubtrugs®

everyone marked commitment a level 2 or 3 and one person scored it a -3? Focus on where there are themes and in those areas where improvements can be made. Use these results to form a discussion with the team. For example, if communication came out low, then why do other team members think this was the case? What can be done to improve communication as a team, and ensure all members are listened to? Often your own team members will have very valuable insight into how to improve team performance. Some questions to consider asking the team to promote discussion and allow all voices to be heard: • Are people surprised by the

results or are they as expected? • Where do team members feel the biggest changes can be made? • In the areas where teams have scored themselves highly, what makes them feel they are good at this? • What do they feel hinders them from being better as a team in some areas? Working objectively with your team by building insights into the skills, strengths, weaknesses, motivations and primary character traits of the individuals that form it - and how these impact on their interactions with each other will help everyone to develop the right behaviours. And this will allow your team to perform at the highest level.

As good today as they’ve always been… The Original Flexible Tub Durable and lightweight design

ABOUT THE AUTHOR LAURIE MAY is the equine business consultant at Zoetis where her role involves enhancing the range of services offered to trade customers. She is currently a lecturer at the University of Derby Corporate (an accredited study centre for the Chartered Institute of Marketing) and lectures for the Communications, Advertising and Marketing (CAM) Foundation. www.equestriantradenews.com

100% food grade plastic The perfect container for feed Super-strong handle joints Range of fantastic colours Call our Midlands head office for an efficient service or visit our Online Trade Warehouse to order online: Tel: 01455 848 184 Fax: 01455 844 134

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Good Grooming & Fly Control

WHEN THEY’RE ITCHING FOR HELP… The equine skin is the largest of its body organs. So imagine the torment suffered by those with sweet itch. Sara Davis looks at cause, prevention – and how retailers can assist.

he equine skin is precious. It covers the whole body, provides camouflage, prevents dehydration and foreign bodies entering. Skin also helps control body temperature, secretes waste, carries sensory nerves and synthetises vitamin D. Sweet itch is a debilitating condition affecting the skin. Found in any breed or age of horses, ponies and donkeys, it’s also known as summer eczema or Queensland itch. It’s more commonly associated with summer and early autumn, but thanks to milder winters we’re now seeing sweet itch throughout the year in some areas.

The causes Sweet itch is caused by an allergic response to the bites of Culicoides midges. The saliva of the midge contains an allergen (protein molecules) which causes an extreme immune response in sensitised individuals. Other factors which can trigger summer eczema include genetic predisposition, protein surge from Spring grazing and high sun exposure.

Common Culicoides midge.

Symptoms Allergic reaction develops at the site where the insect bites with most equines showing skin lesions affecting the mane, tail and dorsal midline. Sometimes the ears and head are affected too. These lesions are characterised by intense itching, which results in rubbing and considerable self-trauma. Violent rubbing in a bid to alleviate the itching causes broken hairs, broken and sometimes bleeding skin, bald patches and raised ridges on the skin. Secondary infection can also be a problem.

Prevention Owners whose horses already have sweet itch should be urged to consult a vet. But by offering advice and appropriate products, retailers can help prevent repeat episodes in susceptible animals. • Avoid turnout near stagnant water, ponds or slow moving water sources as this is where midges are found. Stabling when midges are most prevalent, generally dawn and dusk, is also effective.

The painful and ugly results of sweet itch.

TAKE THE QUIZ Just for fun – answers at the bottom of the page

an antibacterial, moisturising effect. Skin conditions are distressing for horses and unsightly for owners. Sweet itch is very hard, if not impossible, to cure. Preventive measures, taken in good time before the midge season seriously starts, are the key.

Alternative remedies While natural remedies can help maintain a healthy equine skin, they are not a substitute for veterinary care. However, with prevention in mind, many prove very useful. • Bio Skin Oil can help reduce the urge to itch. Natural ingredients like marigold, carrot, calendula and St. John’s Wort help restore damaged skin areas and encourage hair re-growth on bald patches. • Tea tree oil possesses antiseptic, disinfectant and antibacterial characteristics combined with great effectiveness against fungal infestations. It is non-irritant and has a natural fly-repelling effect. Teatree Grooming Lotion reduces the urge to scratch. It soaks in deeply to soothe, moisturise and cool the skin. • No Rub is usefully applied to the hair roots of the mane and tail to reduce rubbing and normalise the skin. It also has

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Melaleuca alternifolia – Australian tea-tree

ABOUT THE AUTHOR SARA DAVIS is a horse owner who worked in a veterinary practice before joining Agrihealth, the distributor of Leovet fly control and grooming products. For more details visit www.agrihealth.co.uk or tel 02838 314570.

ANSWERS

Help your customers to help their itchy horses and ponies.

1. One of the functions of skin is to: A. Connect bone to bone B. Synthesise vitamin D C. Enable digestion 2. Sweet Itch is also known as: A. COPD B. Summer Eczema C. Mud fever 3. Sweet Itch only effects older ponies: True False 4. Sweet itch results in: A. Intense itching B. Lesions C. Bald patches resulting from excess rubbing D. All of the above 5. Sweet Itch is an allergic response to: A. Culicoides midge bites B. Dust from mouldy feed C. Bacteria from soil 6. The use of fly repellents such as Power Phaser can help control midges from biting. True False 7. The inclusion of what in the horses diet acts as a natural fly repellent? A. Biotin B. Seaweed C. Garlic 8. Side effects of corticosteroid use includes: A. Laminitis B. Colic C. Loss of sight 9. Natural remedies can be used to: A. Substitute veterinary care B. Help promote and maintain the health of the equine C. Eradicate Sweet Itch completely 10. Tea tree oil is a natural: A. Antiseptic B. Disinfectant C. Antibacterial D. All of the above

1 – B, 2 – B, 3 – FALSE, 4 – D, 5 – A, 6 – TRUE, 7 – C, 8 – A, 9 – B, 10 - D

• Use insecticides and repellents. But because of the sensitive nature of the skin, consider how harsh they will be. Products such as Power Phaser have been tried and tested in this field; it also has a proven repelling function and extended period of effect. A combination of diethyl toluamides and ethereal oils such as cedar oils, clove oil, eucalyptus oil and mint oil make it gentle on sensitive skin. • Rugs and masks can be used to prevent flies and midges settling on the animal’s skin to bite while offering UV protection from the sun too. Screens can be placed over stable doors and windows. • Adding garlic to the diet not only enhances overall wellbeing but can be effective as a fly repellent. The granulated form makes for easy, dust-free addition to feeds. Garlic is especially effective when the horse sweats and an aromatic haze is produced. • Control of the symptoms can be achieved by a vet with antihistamines and corticosteroids, although the potential side effects – such as laminitis and immune suppression – make this a less preferred option compared with prevention. Antibiotics may be required to manage any secondary infection. Over the counter products such as zinc oxide spray can help create a protective film to protect wounds while they heal.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS APRIL 2016

Good Grooming & Fly Control

TIME TO SHINE…

On long summer days, owners love to bath, groom and pamper their horses – but keeping flies at bay is equally important. ETN has the pick of the products.

Time savers in a bottle FIRST thing on a busy show morning, your customers will appreciate products that get their horses sparkling super-quickly. Absorbine has a host of ideas that save time, trouble and temper. ShowSheen Orginal Hair Polish and Detangler cuts grooming time by up to 80%. It repels dust and dirt, accentuates body tone and leaves manes and tails tangle free. It comes in a 946ml spray bottle (RRP £16.06). Detangler Gel with argon oil is a perfect alternative for thick tails or horses that don’t like sprays. A 118ml bottle has an RRP of £10.88. ShowSheen Stain Remover and Whitener contains oxierasers. It’s simply sprayed on – then the stain is rinsed away. For tough stains, it works as a powerful pre-treatment spray. The RRP of £9.97 buys 591ml. ShowSheen Miracle Groom ‘bath in a bottle’ is a patented 5-in-1 formula that cleans, conditions, deodorises, detangles and shines with one application. It cleans and nourishes the coat and skin naturally, protecting the hair’s essential oils. Available in 946ml spray bottle, the RRP is £15.77. See page 8.

Putting on a show

The ever-fresh grooming solution YOU can constantly offer your customers something new with MagicBrush…which has just launched Care&Shine sprays to complement its versatilee grooming tools. MagicBrushes come in packs of three colour co-ordinated brushes. The latest themes, followed through on the highly decorated boxes, are Sweet Surprise, Salt & Pepper and Chili. They make great gifts as well as useful utensils. MagicBrush lies comfortably in the hand and can remove anything from dried on sweat to loose hair on any part of the horse – including head and legs - without irritating him. Indeed, they seem to offer a groom-cum-massage. The EU made brushes are machine washable, while the backs can be used as sweat scrapers. New MagicBrush Care&Shine sprays are equally well presented. They make brushing easy while their nourishing vitamin B5 complex supports healthy hair growth. These silicone free products come in 360 degree spray bottles which have a low sound so as not to disturb the horse. There are two Care&Shine options. Fruit Surprise contains blueberry, raspberry and macadamia nut oils plus caster oil. Care&Shine Sensitive features aloe vera for a moisturising effect to enhance healthy hair.

For a magical gleam

NAF has launched a range of specialist show turnout products. Each item in The Magnificent 7 range has an RRP of £9.99. There’s Plait it Up to keep wisps at bay and create perfect plaits every time. Brighter than White is a brilliant leg and body whitener to make white patches even brighter. Paint it Black is a super shiny, quick-drying hoof polish for elegant black hooves; while Paint it Clear gives clear finish. Make your Mark creates great quarter marks that last all day. Oil it Well adds definition and shine to eyes, muzzles, coats, legs and docks. It’s a gentle but high quality oil to highlight every horse’s best points. Razzle Dazzle is a luxury finishing spray to catch the judge’s eye on sunny days and under the spotlight in evening performances. The Magnificent 7 complements NAF’s Fab Four - Show Off and Pimp My Pony shampoos, Shine On grooming spray and Muck Off stain remover. The sum total is The Illuminating Eleven - a complete showing and turnout collection. See page 7. APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

BATTLES’ new six product coat care collection will keep horses gleaming. There are three shampoos: HySHINE Magic Sparkle 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner helps to repair damage caused by exposure to sunlight, and offers a fusion of provitamin B5 to help strengthen the hair. 500ml has an RRP of £8.25. HySHINE Magic Dazzle Whitening Shampoo is a fast acting shampoo that combats yellowing hair. It features avocado, lavender and wheat germ extracts to protect and repair the coat. The RRP is £8.25 for 500ml. HySHINE Magic Miracle Shampoo restores the shine in horses’ coats in no time at all. It has a pleasant mint fragrance too. 500ml retails at around £7.99. The HySHINE collection also has three products for finishing touches: HySHINE Magic Finish Detangler is an enhanced conditioner for use on manes, tails and coats. Rich in silk proteins, the formula leaves horses’ manes and tails easy to manage. 500ml has an RRP of £8.99. HySHINE Magic Sheen Detangler Serum untangles, nourishes and hydrates hair for long lasting shine with no greasy residue. The RRP is £12.49 for 200ml. An essential for showing mornings is HySHINE Magic Vanish Stain Remover. With the help of brightening agents, stains miraculously disappear! In 500ml containers, the RRP is £8.99. See page 17. www.equestriantradenews.com

Stock both products and ease your customers’ fly problems in and out of the stable with…

Feed-Thru Fly Control Breaks the Fly Life Cycle. Prevents the Development of Stable Flies and House Flies in the Manure of Treated Horses. Highly Palatable Feed Additive.

For our complete range see our website www.lesliesutcliffe.com LS Sales (Farnam) Ltd. Bloxham Mill, Oxon, England, OX15 4FF T: +44 (0) 1608 683855 E: orders@lesliesutcliffe.com

NEW PRODUCT

O-MEGA SHINE

PRODUCT REVIEW This lovely Horse is owned by Nicola, who kindly did a trial of the “O-Mega Shine”. Nicola took this photo & says “since using O-Mega Shine his skin, coat & mane are fantastic, also his hoof quality has improved. I don’t have to bath him as often, as a groom is enough to make him shine, even on show days. I recommend this produuct to everyone”

Attain & Maintain A Show Winning Coat 100% Cold Pressed British Hemp Seed Oil A Vegetarian Source of Omega Oils 87% Omega Oils (3, 6 & 9) Essential Fatty Acids Can also be massaged into the skin Sizes 1 lt to 5 lt. Average daily dose of just 20ml. Average 2.5lt lasts 125 days FROM THE MAKERS OF

www.animal-health.co.uk Tel: 01787 476400

40 Ex-racehorses get smart SMART Grooming has teamed up with Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) to offer show preparation advice. The initiative involves the grooming products supplier working with Clare Poole, RoR Wales and Severn co-ordinator, and Claire Blackham, coordinator for the south-west. The charity RoR re-homes, re-trains and cares about the welfare of horses that have raced and been in the racing industry. “Claire and Clare are Claire Blackham passionate about the reschooling and training, as well as producing and competing in different disciplines to suit the needs of the individual animal,” said Vicky Goody of Smart Grooming. RoR co-ordinators arrange training in their respective areas for members of the organisation to attend. Tuition includes guidance on schooling for the ring, tips and techniques for Clare Poole achieving a show finish plus practical show preparation demonstrations. People taking on RoR horses also receive support and any help they need with general schooling and management issues. “Smart Grooming looks to support riders that really do give something back to their sport,” adds Vicky. “Claire and Clare are keen to pass on their knowledge to help and further the careers of racehorses that are no longer part of the racing industry. “They are both successful as riders and producers and have enjoyed much success with the re-trained racehorses that have come under their care.” (Photos by Equinational) See page 37.

Stop sweet itch before it starts Z-ITCH Pour-On from Trilanco is a ready-to-use liquid that aids the control of sweet itch in horses. The solution contains permethrin and should be applied weekly for maximum benefit. Easy to apply thanks to an integral measuring chamber, it’s simply poured along the horse’s back. Ideally, Z-itch should be used before the horse starts to show symptoms of sweet itch, but it can be applied any time in the season. A 250ml bottle has an RRP of £33.60. Your customers can complete their horses’ protection with the Z-itch Sweet Itch Rug With Hood. As well as guarding against midges, it helps ward off nuisance flies too. The close fitting rug is made from soft, tightly woven polyester with elasticated edges to prevent small insects from getting inside. It’s supplied in three parts (main body, hood and belly flap) to make the rug easy to fit. The Z-itch Sweet Itch Rug With Hood covers the horse from nose to tail including the belly, thanks to the large tail flap and wide, removable girth that clips around the horse. As an extra benefit, it reduces the impact of UV rays. Available in sizes 4’6” to 7’, the RRP is £83.20. www.equestriantradenews.com

41 Hair today, gone tomorrow…

No flies in these eyes! THE Guardsman Fly Mask from Noble Outfitters creates a structured canopy to protect horses from bugs and flies. Importantly, it ensures good clearance from the horse's eyes. The contoured closure design prevents insect penetration and the heavy duty UV coated mesh is built to last. A comfortable fit around the ears allows unrestricted movement, while fleece padding on the headpiece and nose offers comfort. There’s also a removable nose guard providing UPF 25+ protection. A bridle loop works for storage or to attach to the head collar. There’s even an identification label. The Guardsman fly mask comes in various sizes and with or without ears with RRPs £21.95 and £19.95 respectively. PoS is available too. See page 21.

Patented protection EQUIGROOMER looks simple – yet is highly effective at removing dirt and loose hair from long or short coats. Popular with horse and dog owners across America, it’s solely distributed in the UK by Smart Grooming. EquiGroomer comprises a steel serrated blade set into a painted hardwood handle. It’s easy to use, quick to clean, tactile to hold and comes in a choice of eight colours. The RRP is from £17.95. The tool comes in two sizes; small (12 cm width) for dogs, cats, rabbits and alike; and large (24cm) for horses, cattle, donkeys and goats – giving it wide appeal across the equine, pet and smallholder markets. See page 36.

NETTEX Itch Stop Salve Summer Freedom is a patented formulation which helps repel and protect against insects and biting flies. By applying it before the midges come out in the early spring, owners can avoid the itch, scratch, rub cycle that becomes a misery for many horses and ponies. However, if midges have already managed to get to a customer’s horse, then the cream provides instant relief. Its soothing action also disinfects and sanitises sores and promotes hair regrowth. Application is required only once a week in most cases making the RRPs of £12.50 for 300ml and £22.45 for 600ml highly cost effective, says Nettex. The weather resistant formula is simple to apply and won’t matt in the horse’s hair.

Relocation Diary

“The steelwork is here…” As work gets underway on wholesaler Trilanco’s new £7 million headquarters, managing director Martin Balmer writes a relocation diary exclusively for ETN.

Just some of 318 tonnes of steel are unloaded

hat a month it’s been! The site is now completely clear and all the foundations have been laid, using some 1850m³ of concrete. It’s amazing to see the area we’re going to occupy and start to think about how it’s all going to work. Of course, we’ve done a lot of planning on paper, but when it starts to come to life - and come up out of the ground, it takes on a whole new reality. In order to put down these foundations, 35,000m³ of spoil has been removed from the site. What’s more, the contractor finished a week ahead of schedule. I know, you don’t often hear that…And of course, we’re a long way from the end, but it’s always nice when things like this happen. We’ve also erected a new fence along the site’s northern perimeter for security as the build progresses. This fence is 2.4m high and 114m long. The fence around the full perimeter will stretch for 386m when completed, which equates to 220 fence posts and 926 square metres of Paladin mesh. Some drain connectors have been excavated into the main sewers…Not quite as much fun as moving huge amounts of soil with large plant, but very necessary all the same. The steelwork is here and has progressed well. We’re three weeks into this aspect of the build as I write, and there are five more weeks of steelwork to complete before we can move onto the cladding phase. There will be an approximate weight of 318 tonnes of steel when it’s all been erected. The heaviest are the portal rafters to the roof structure which span between the perimeter columns. Each of these arrives at the site in four pieces; when assembled and hoisted into position, they weigh 2.1 tonnes each. We’ve also positioned one of the pre-cast concrete stairways that will lead to the offices. This was hoisted by one of the same cranes that are assembling the steelwork. In other good news, we’ve been able to take some pictures of the site using a drone. The results really give you a feel for what we’re working on and you can start to see how it’s all going to look when completed.

A bird’s eye view of the site from the drone.

Martin

• To find out more, visit www.trilanco.com

APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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BETA Members’ Page

Products mean prizes!

Bag tickets to Bramham WE HAVE a number of free tickets for Bramham, which we will be offering to BETA members shortly. They are available in pairs and can be used to treat yourself or offer to customers as a special promotion. Look out for an email arriving in your inboxes in the next couple of weeks with further details.

ith the competition season now under starter’s orders, we are beginning to prepare for two of our most exciting summer sponsorships – the CIC 3* at the Equi-Trek Bramham International Horse Trials (9-12 June) and the Festival of British Eventing, at Gatcombe Park (5-7 August), where we will return as presenting sponsor for an 11th year. To maximise our presence and fly the flag for BETA members, we plan to run our popular luxury prize draw and hand out goody bags at both events. However, these two initiatives rely on the generous support of members and are only made possible thanks to the kind donations of products for prizes. The hamper and goody bags are always in great demand and provide a powerful incentive for visitors to come to the BETA stand.

Do you have something you would be willing to contribute? We are looking for donations with a minimum retail value of £100 for each hamper. All products will be given pride of place in an attractive and eyecatching display on the BETA stand throughout the event. Perfect prizes include a saddle, bridle and other leatherwork, a set of rugs, a rider outfit, leg wear for horses, feed and supplements, bedding, stable equipment and giftware. Smaller items such as pens, baseball caps and sample pots are ideal for the goody bags, which are handed out to visitors and competitors in the Pony Club Team Show Jumping at both events. If you would like to donate to the hamper, goody bags or both, please contact Laura Clegg in the BETA office.

Book a training course BETA’s training courses are a great way to brush up on your knowledge, add another string to your bow and equip yourself with new skills to benefit your customers. Our April courses (below) are booking up fast, so why not get in touch to reserve a place today? You can also contact the BETA office for a full list of courses planned for the rest of the year. 12 April – Retail Customer Service & Sales Skills, Perth Racecourse, Perth. 12 April – Safety Course for Hat & Body Protector Fitting, Buckerell Lodge Hotel, Exeter. 13 April – City & Guilds exam – Fitting Protective Rider Safety Equipment, Buckerell Lodge Hotel, Exeter. 28 April – NOPS training day, Arden Hotel, Birmingham.

For further information on any of the items mentioned here

CONTACT LAURA CLEGG AT BETA Tel: 01937 587062

Website: www.beta-uk.org Email: laurac@beta-int.com Stockeld Park, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS22 4AW www.equestriantradenews.com

Play your part and reap the rewards

on’t forget that equestrian retailers have a big part to play in Take up the Reins, BETA’s exciting new campaign to encourage people to #GetHorsey. This means taking up riding, volunteering to help at a local equine charity or attending equestrian events to show support – anything that gets them out there and connecting with horses! The initiative sees BETA’s three mechanical horses taking to the road on an awareness-raising mission where they will put in an appearance at consumer shows, sports events and shopping centres throughout the UK. Everyone who hops on board for a ride will be given a Take up the Reins goody bag, complete with a Riding Kit Voucher, which they can exchange in-store for a pair of pimple-palm gloves when buying their first pair of jodhpurs and riding boots from a participating retailer. If you haven’t done so already, why not join the scheme to help drive additional footfall and new customers your way? Contact Tina Hustler in the BETA office to find out more.

Welcome to BETA! WE ARE pleased to welcome the following companies to BETA following the council’s approval of their membership applications: Cheffings Equine, Tiverton, Devon – Retail. Nutribio, Cork, Co Cork – Trade. David Sandeman, Marshfield, Wiltshire – Associate. Somersby House Tack Shop, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire – Retailer. Salhuset A/S, Oslo, Norway – Overseas Retail. Castlefin Equestrian, Victoria, Australia – Overseas Mobile Retail. Jobayohin Plus (Tekomono Inc), Chiba, Japan – Overseas Retail. Bond Street Trophies, Hinckley, Leicestershire – Retail. Hammett Equestrian, Warboys, Cambridgeshire – Agent. Ollard Westcombe (2000), Downpatrick, Co Down – Trade. RJ and RE Burrow, Ottery St Mary, Devon – Trade. Mountain Horse, Oxford – Trade. Northern Crop Driers, York – Trade. Falcon Equine Feeds, West Chiltington, West Sussex – Trade. Pure Flax, Wetherby, West Yorkshire – Trade. EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS APRIL 2016

Feeding for performance

THE POWER TO WIN

ETN look at the latest in performance feeds – and how to sell more of them.

Beating the opposition - by feeding beet

For equine athletes ENDURO Performance from Saracen is a high oil and fibre mix ideal for the equine athlete. Fortified with vitamins and minerals, it’s formulated to draw on ‘super fibre’ sources for controlled energy release. High fibre levels also support digestive health while the product offers powerful antioxidant protection. Now in new-look packaging, the RRP is £14 per bag.

Fortified to perform

FIBRE-BEET has an energy level comparable with oats; a fact not lost on racehorse trainer Patrick Holmes. His Foulrice Park Racing operation has been notching up winners on the product from British Horse Feeds that combines beet pulp with alfalfa. The strike-rate of horses in his care is proof that running them on a high fibre diet does not necessarily mean a loss of athletic performance. “We didn’t have to completely change our existing feed regime,” said Patrick. “We just added Fibre-Beet to enhance what was already working for us. The results speak for themselves.” Notably, the trainer’s horses have picked up several best turned out awards just lately too.

FIBRE Performance from Dodson & Horrell is a fibre based competition feed providing similar energy levels to the company’s Competition Mix. Fibre Performance is formulated to ensure that muscular, hoof, coat, joint and immune health is supported with a comprehensive package of B vitamins plus 28 vitamins and minerals and good quality protein. Fibre Performance also contains electrolytes plus cooked cereals. The RRP for a 20kg bag of Fibre Performance is £13 to £14.

How to sell more feed Shoppers are creatures of habit. Good retailers prompt people out of 'sleep shopping' by engaging them through knowledgeable staff, interesting displays, great offers and attractive store layouts. MAKE THE BEST USE OF POS: • Keep it simple. Too many messages and it’s just ‘noise’. • Shoppers have become trained to look for promotional materials, so stick to the basic principles around colours (reds and yellows), shapes (circles and triangles) and locations (shelf barkers, end of aisles, till units). DEAL WITH CUSTOMERS’ QUESTIONS: • People don't expect you to be experts but you must know the basics to instil confidence - and where to find the answers to more complicated queries. • So call the companies’ helplines on customers’ behalf to help them make decisions and purchases. • Staff training on equine nutrition and product selling points is always a good thing. But do keep up-to-date with the latest thinking by refreshing the training ideally six monthly.

80% OF SALES COME FROM 20% OF STOCK: • Your retail space is valuable, so don't over-range your store with lots of products all doing roughly the same thing. • Instead, make sure you have breadth of range with feed, forage, herbs and supplements and treats making your store appeal to a wider group of people. • If you're trying to be a feed specialist, then having a better range than other stores will help attract discerning shoppers.

RETAI L TIP

PAY ATTENTION TO STOCK TURN AND SHELF LIFE: • Having product go out of date is a massive waste, and not only of the feed and the money it cost you to buy the stock. More importantly, it wastes your precious retail space. • If a line is so slow selling that it goes out of date, it should have been removed long ago. • Keep on top of what's selling and what isn't - don't be afraid to remove slow sellers. • Tell customers you can order in a product for them. This way you keep the shelf space for lines that sell without losing sales from discontented regulars.

With thanks for these tips to the Dodson & Horrell commercial team. APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

www.equestriantradenews.com

Problem solving

performance feeds

your customer says... “I need him to keep condition while I stay in control” No.4 Top Line Conditioning Cubes Concentrated

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“my mare is sharp and can stress the weight off” No.20 Slow Release Condition & Competition Mix High oil

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“I like her full of energy, especially for a jump off” No.9 All-Round Competition Mix With oats

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SOlvINg FEEdINg PROBlEMS FOR REPEAT CUSTOM Baileys Horse Feeds - EXPERTS IN PERFORMANCE NUTRITION Tel: 01371 850 247 (option 1) sales@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

Feeding for performance

“You get out what you put in”

For competition condition

SWEDISH international showjumper Peder Fredricson has joined Carl Hester, Charlotte Dujardin, Laura Renwick and Sam Griffiths on Saracen Horse Feeds’ team of brand ambassadors. Peder, who switched from eventing to showjumping in 2000, was introduced to Saracen feeds to address one of his top horses’ digestive and muscle issues. He now feeds ReLeve. “I’m pleased to have found a feed with serious research behind each bag. You get out what you put in,” said Peder who has Rio in his sights this summer. “We’re very pleased to welcome a European rider of Peder’s calibre to our team,” said Michael Bacon, sales and marketing director of Saracen Horse Feeds. “It’s a real testament to the brand and how we are supporting riders globally.” See page 56.

IF CUSTOMERS are looking for feeds to help increase condition for the competition season, look no further than Equerry Conditioning Cubes and Equerry Conditioning Mix. Formulated to provide calories and good quality protein for muscle development, weight gain and improve topline, they contain highly digestible cereals plus yeast to help promote a healthy digestive system. Equerry Conditioning Cubes and Mix provide a good source of fibre and contain high levels of oil to promote condition and a shiny coat Both products contain added vitamins and minerals including magnesium and raised levels of vitamin E, an important anti-oxidant. The cubes have an RRP of £11.95, and the mix £14.95. Both come in 20kg sacks.

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• Launched 37 years ago, ETN is part of the BETA Group. It’s published for the trade, by the trade. • The monthly magazine is read in 47 different countries. • ETN is the official media partner of BETA International. • Want more equestrian trade news? Sign up to ETN’s weekly e-newsletter for the latest happenings and appointments. • Earn CPD points. ETN runs CPD features for SQPs, saddle fitters and farriers. Articles and quizzes are accredited by the relevant professional bodies. • ETN is online too. Visit www.equestriantradenews.com for breaking news. You can also answer CPD quiz questions online here. • Do colleagues ever ‘borrow’ your copy of ETN and take it home, never to be seen again? You need an extra subscription. • Have a say and air your views. ETN welcomes letters to the editor via email to editor@equestriantradenews.com • To find out more, contact Nicki Lewis on 01937 582111 or email nickil@beta-int.com APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

It’s warm out there… THE NETTEX Electrolyte Range is formulated to replace vital salts that are lost through sweating during strenuous exercise, travelling or stress-related conditions. It’s ideal for use all-yearround, especially during the hotter months and competition season. Although Nettex says electrolyte supplementation is equally important in the winter months when horses sweat after hunting. The products come in powder, liquid or a syringe paste. Containing branch chain amino acids (BCAA), they assist muscle recovery and help reduce fatigue. The Nettex Electrolyte Range is mint flavoured, so highly palatable. Electrolytes are designed to replace sodium, potassium and chloride. Equine sweat contains a higher concentration of salts than body fluid, says Nettex; this means that a sweating horse loses proportionately more electrolytes than water. In hot conditions, 10 to 15 litres of fluid can be lost per hour of exercise. Nettex Electrolyte Maintenance Powder and Liquid can be fed daily. They can both be mixed with the horse’s feed or water. Nettex Electrolyte Syringe Paste Boost is formulated as an easy to give ‘top-up’ for fast results and easy, portable use.

Getting the right response SPILLERS Response Slow Release Energy Cubes are a favourite with competition riders such as eventers Wills Oakden and Becky Woolven and showjumper James Smith. Controlled levels of cereal starch blended with highly digestible fibre and oil help to deliver manageable power for their horses, when it’s needed. All Spillers products adhere to the BETA NOPS Code. www.equestriantradenews.com

Until you’ve fed him Calm & Condition®… ...you’ll never know how glossy his coat could be Calm & Condition® ➤ Barley and molasses free, low starch and low sugar* ➤ For horses and ponies at rest to hard work ➤ Ideal for horses and ponies that need to put on or maintain condition ➤ Quick soak in less than ten minutes

For friendly and helpful advice, contact our award-winning nutrition helpline today 01362 822 902, email helpline@allenandpage.co.uk Quote Ad Reference: glossy1

*When compared to traditional diets with comparative energy levels

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Feeding for performance

MORE MILES TO THE GALLON… Back in early February, Pauline Holloway’s Nottinghamshire based team of home-bred endurance horses had a precompetition season visit from TopSpec veterinary nutritionist Anna Welch. ETN went along to eavesdrop.

op level endurance competitions involve a long day for all concerned. With up to ten hours’ riding, plus vet checks, fitting

in sufficient refuelling of a very hard working horse is a challenge. Successful horses learn to make the most of opportunities to drink, eat and

They’re half-brothers, of similar height, both winners at 120km plus and both fed on TopSpec. But laid-back, seven-eighths Arabian Ruwais Bolero, left, (who weighed in at 556kg) and keen-to-go Anglo-Arab Phantastik Bolero (492kg) are a great illustration of why horses need feeding as individuals.

rest while pausing mid-ride for around 30 minutes in ‘vet gates’. Here they’re assessed by vets, judged fit to continue or eliminated, then attended to by each rider’s ‘crew’.

As grazing animals, horses must eat every four to six hours. ‘Gut sounds’ are checked rigorously by endurance vets; if they’re poor, horses are

THE HARD-WORKING GOOD DOER LIKE many horses at the tail end of a mild winter when the grass kept on growing, Ruwais Bolero came out of it on the chubby side. “There must be a balance Ruwais needs a gradual loss of 40kgs. between having enough condition to start the [competition] season but not carrying so much weight that joints will be compromised,” said Anna. “Extra weight also makes it harder for a horse to lose heat [and therefore attain the low heart rate required to pass a vet check] on a hot day.” With plans to compete in one-day 80km rides and 170km over three days, she confirmed that Ruwais - who weighed in at 556kg on the TopSpec weighbridge - needs a gradual loss of around 40kg. “A lot of endurance horses are good doers, particularly the Arabs and native types. Their owners tend to feed good forage and they often live out at grass,” said Anna. She asked Pauline and her granddaughter Daisy Strang, who rides Ruwais, about his plans for the season, temperament, work rate and current diet. Daisy explained how the chestnut gelding makes long rides seem effortless. “He doesn’t appear to be doing anything, but he covers the ground like a well-oiled machine,” she said. The crux of Ruwais’ diet, said Anna, must be to maximise his protein intake and maintain his micronutrient levels while reducing calories. “If you tried to do this with a traditional compound feed, the amount you’d have to give him to supply the micronutrients and protein he needs for work would contain too many calories. APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Anna and Daisy discuss Ruwais’ diet

“So the TopSpec Comprehensive Balancer that Ruwais is on is perfect, although we would recommend TopSpec Lite Feed Balancer for horses in a lower level of work.” Ruwais’ bucket feed also contains salt, TopChop Grass, TopChop Alfalfa, TopSpec UlsaKind (see box right) and sugar beet pulp. Anna recommended reducing the beet “which is high in calories but low in protein” and give “just a little very dilute beet pulp to dampen the feed” instead. Pauline confessed that Ruwais has half a dozen carrots daily. “I suppose they’ll have to go…?” No, luckily, he can keep his crunchy treats. “Carrots are pretty much water and some sugar and fine in moderation,” reassured Anna. Anna suggested that at 14, Ruwais would benefit from a joint supplement “as an insurance policy”. So he has joined the group of horses to which Pauline already feeds TopSpec 10:10 Joint Finally, Anna took haylage samples Supplement. to be analysed.

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49 out of the competition on ‘metabolics’. Horses are trained to eat and drink during a ride. “We experiment during training sessions at home to see what they like,” explained Pauline. “You can make a mash from any kind of cube. We’ve found that very useful as they can slurp it up quickly while they’re being cooled off. There isn’t time to chew through a big pile of hay.” A sloppy mixture of soaked TopSpec UlsaKind cubes, grass nuts and apple juice is Pauline’s horses’ preferred vet gate offering. “There’s always a choice of other feeds too and of course grass is something they go for if it’s available,” she added.

The expert’s view ETN asked TopSpec’s vet

nutritionist Anna Welch, who has competed in top level endurance, for four feeding essentials in this sport: Micronutrients – vitamins, minerals, trace-elements and pre/pro-biotics to support body metabolism and the digestive system in particular. Hoof quality is particularly important in endurance horses, as is the immune system. Pauline’s horses’ micronutrients are supplied in full with TopSpec Comprehensive Feed Balancer. Good quality protein – this is crucial for supporting muscle strength and renewal and is also supplied by TopSpec Comprehensive Feed Balancer. Fibre and oil – these tend to be the preferred energy sources for endurance horses. Anna and Pauline had an interesting discussion about the point at which starch is needed

to replenish glycogen stores. Provided a horse is trained correctly, was the consensus, the glycogen reserves are unlikely to be depleted to the extent that high levels of starch feeding become necessary in most competitions. But a significant level of starch may need to be included in the horse’s diet if he is competing over hilly ground, over long distances or in extremely fast endurance racing scenarios. Salt – a tablespoon per feed, twice a day, is an essential ingredient in most working horse’s diets. Levels need adjusting according to diet and quantity of sweat. Horses on a high forage diet receive ample potassium, and they will receive calcium, phosphorus and magnesium in their hard feed. Therefore if salt is added to this type of diet it will negate

PAULINE’S FEEDING MANTRA A ‘football’ of haylage is always fed before bucket feeds. “I like quietness and routine on the yard at feeding time,” says Pauline who has also trained Arab racehorses. “I want it to be peaceful while the horses eat.” the need for added commercial electrolytes at lower levels of competition. In fact, Pauline thanked Anna for offering this advice at the start of last season and “saving me a fortune in commercial electrolyte preparations” – something she now only uses when training and competing over longer distances.

THE ULSAKIND EFFECT PAULINE originally turned to the TopSpec helpline early in 2015 with a query about Ruwais. “He’s a good, sound horse but he wasn’t always producing optimum gut sounds at the vet gates,” she explained. After a long chat with one of the nutritionists, Pauline started to feed him TopSpec Comprehensive Feed Balancer and TopSpec UlsaKind Cubes. “Once we started Ruwais on his new feeding regime he received almost all As for metabolics at the vet gate,” she said. Ruwais and Daisy went on to have a fantastic 2015 season finishing first at King’s Forest 80km, Cranwich 139km and the Royalties 172km. At the EGB National Awards, Ruwais was Top Part Bred Arab, Top Home Bred Horse and Daisy became Reserve National Young Rider

Champion. “The TopSpec feed has made a huge difference – and it’s so re-assuring to be able to get practical, nonpatronising advice from the helpline at any time,” said Pauline. Ruwais and Daisy were due to start their 2016 campaign with a 64km ride last month (March). For other horses on the yard, once they are slim and in full competition fitness, Pauline has added some locally grown barley to their feed. “Oats would be better,” said Anna. “The digestibility of oats is so much higher.” Even better, she suggested, would be some TopSpec Turbo introduced six weeks before a big ride. The high oil content, micronized oats and soya would be gentler on their guts than raw barley, while packing an energy punch.

WITH thanks to TopSpec’s veterinary nutritionist Anna Welch and to Pauline Holloway, her family and their horses. TopSpec equine advisors are happy to visit yards of 12 or more horses with their weighbridges. A follow-up visit is then made to the yard’s local retailer to inform them of the types of feed it may be beneficial to stock. Indeed many retailers initiate yard visits by letting their customers know about the service. “We get a very good conversion rate when feed advisors visit yards,” said TopSpec’s senior nutritionist and marketing director

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Katy Mickle. “Retailers trust us to go into yards – because we always drive the business to them. “And of course, we’re always at the end of the phone to help retailers and their customers. If we can help people achieve their dreams, that’s great.” • For more information and feeding advice, you or your customers can contact the multi BETA Business Award winning helpline on 01845 565030.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS APRIL 2016

SQP CPD Feature

ETN’s series of CPD features helps SQPs (Suitably Qualified Persons) earn the CPD (continuing professional development) points they need. The features have been accredited by AMTRA, and highlight some of the most important subject areas for SQPs specialising in equine and companion animal medicine. This month we begin a series of CPD feeding and nutrition modules. The next one will appear in the April issue of ETN. AMTRA is required by the Veterinary Medicines Regulations to ensure its SQPs undertake CPD. All SQPs must earn a certain number of CPD points in a given period of time in order to retain their qualification. SQPs who read the following feature and submit correct answers to the questions below will receive two CPD points.

WHAT DO HORSES EAT? Nutrition plays a significant role in equine health and welfare, so it’s difficult not to discuss feeding within any healthcare conversation. For SQPs, therefore, a working knowledge of nutrition means a better service to clients, says Ruth Bishop.

The dietary options on offer in any store are many and varied. No wonder the choice of product can sometimes be quite overwhelming for consumers. The spectrum of feedstuffs is very wide, with intake ranging from many kilos per day to a few grammes. The major categories are as follows -

At least 50% of the daily diet should be forage, but in most horses it is significantly greater than this – typically over 80% of the daily diet in many horses kept for leisure purposes.

Grass Good pasture contains an even cover of palatable grasses, free from

out for. Good grass is generally equivalent to a medium or high energy, high protein feed. It’s at its very richest in spring (and often again in the autumn), when the protein content can be above 20% and the energy content equivalent to that of a racing feed. Actively growing grass can be rich in sugar – as

THE SPECTRUM OF HORSE FEEDSTUFFS

FORAGES

CUBES & MIXES

Supply roughage and bulk; form the greatest part of most horses diets, fed in several kilos per day.

Supply energy, protein, vitamins & minerals; Typically used at 1- 8 kg per day.

CHOPPED FIBRES & FIBRE BLENDS

BALANCERS

Similar in nutrition to forage but fed in bucket. Mainly fed in grammes/ day.

Concentrated nutrition pellets. Feed rate usually 250g - 1kg per day

SUPPLEMENTS LICKS & TREATS

Supplements & licks: specific dietary additions; very low feed rates 10-100g/d. Treats: used for reward, greeting distraction, various sizes ( >1kg /day.)

FED IN SEVERAL KILOS PER DAY……........……………………………………………FED IN GRAMMES PER DAY

Of course there’s some blurring of the edges between categories as some products sit between two, for instance mixes containing high proportions of fibre. Horses mainly eat forage, in the form of grass, hay or haylage; forages are what horses are designed to eat, and are essential for a healthy horse. Forage is capable of supplying the energy, fibre and protein needs of a horse, especially one at maintenance or light work – although essential micronutrients will in many cases need topping up.

weeds, and provides a rich source of nutrients from energy and protein to vitamins, minerals and plant phytochemicals. Horses thrive at grass - physically and mentally – but some do too well, gaining excess weight. A recent survey of predominately outdoor living horses found that over 30% were overweight. The amount of nutrition that grass provides varies according to the time of year, the grazing management, the number of horses (or other animals) grazing the land and how long the horse is turned

APRIL 2016 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

specialist blends of them, grown and sown specially for hay. Seed hay tends to be quite coarse in nature with a relatively low energy and protein content; or • Meadow hay - from pasture permanently kept as grass, usually comprised of a more varied mixture of grass species, and tends to be softer and finer with a higher nutritive value than seed hay. As a general rule of thumb, small bales weigh about 20kg, with large bales weighing 250-350kg depending on size. A slice or section from a small bale typically weighs about 2kg / 4lbs. The main concern with hay is its hygienic quality: moulds, spores and other dust particles that develop during harvest or storage can cause respiratory irritation and lead to the development of Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO) in horses. Soaking and steaming Hay Unless it’s been expertly dried in controlled conditions (there are suppliers who do this), UK hay is likely to contain some mould and dust. Soaking or steaming hay are popular ways of removing any dust, by either removing the particles, or effectively ‘sticking’ them to

Soaking time much as 3% of every mouthful, and this together with fructans, a storage form of plant sugar, has been implicated in the incidence of pasture-associated laminitis. Poor grazing isn’t as rich, but a horse turned out for several hours a day can still easily receive more from its pasture than it will from most low energy feeds.

Hay Hay is dried mature grass, normally in the form of either: • Seed hay - usually perennial ryegrass varieties, timothy or

Research has shown that 30 minutes’ soaking is effective. Soaking hay also causes some loss of nutritional value as some soluble sugars and proteins are leached out into the water; more soaking equals less nutritional worth. Owners of laminitis-risk horses can take advantage of this to reduce unwanted sugar contents.

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51 the grass stalks so that they are consumed rather than inhaled.

Haylage Haylage is grass that is baled moist (typically 35-40% moisture) and then bagged or wrapped to keep the air out and moulds from forming. It’s popular with growers because it’s easier to make than hay, and with horse owners because of its low dust and spore content. Plastic packaging means it can be stored outside. Disadvantages are that quality can be variable between different suppliers. Also portioning can be a challenge, since the bales don’t often break into easy slices. Moisture content can be variable between suppliers, ranging from 20-50%. Small haylage bales weigh about 25kg, whereas large wrapped bales can be 180-250kg or greater.

Haylage tips for SQPs • Up to 50% of haylage can be water, compared with 15% in hay, so it cannot be fed on a weight-for-weight basis with hay; advise feeding about 1½ times the weight of haylage as hay. • The quality of the airtight seal is essential. Air ingress will allow mould growth in the bales. Small bales may split at the seal, large bales can be punctured by haylage stalks or from bird, rodent or mole damage. • Quality is all important, so choose a supplier with a good reputation and ask for an analysis of their product. • A good rule of thumb is to use a bale within four days of opening (less in summer) as moulds start to grow again immediately the bale is opened. • Avoid feeding visibly mouldy haylage and “gritty” or soil contaminated material, as there could be a risk of listeriosis. Forage analysis Hay and haylage are often thought of as an inert and safe nutritional bases. However because

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they constitute such a large part of the diet their contribution is worth monitoring especially if the horse competes, is at risk of laminitis, has Cushings disease etc. Energy, protein and sugar contents can vary depending on the grass species, date of cutting and the weather during cutting and baling. Sugar contents can exceed 10% in some forages. Nutritional value can be quantified by a simple test, a service offered by many feed manufacturers.

Ad lib forage feeding Many owners feed on a free access or ad libitum basis to ensure the horse always has forage available. Actual individual amounts consumed should be monitored though as offering ad lib doesn’t always mean an optimum intake especially where several horses share the forage, or if the quality is variable.

mixes and balancers. However in the horse owner’s eyes, they fulfil a different role, tailoring individual diets to meet specific needs. Supplements are used regularly, with estimates of their use in 80% of equine diets. There are two main categories of supplements: - Broad-spectrum: providing a

Feed

Description

Typical feed rate

Low energy / High fibre

Cubes and mixes with a high fibre content designed for horses at maintenance, in light work, or for horses that work well off low energy feeds.

1-4 kg per day

Senior feeds

Cubes and mixes with additional nutrients for older horses. Some come in low-and high-energy form; some contain joint support ingredients.

1-4 kg per day

Feeds for laminitics

Usually in fibre-mix or cube form, low energy, high fibre, low starch and sugar complete feeds. Capable of replacing the total diet of at risk animals.

1 -10 kg per day

Competition feeds

Medium energy cubes and mixes with higher vitamin and mineral contents designed for the working and competing horse or pony.

2-6 kg per day

Conditioning feeds

Higher energy and protein feeds designed to put on weight. Some are starch based, but more modern versions are high in fibre and oil to ensure condition is achieved without increased excitability.

1-3kg per day

Stud and breeding feeds

High energy, protein and mineral feeds designed for breeding stock.

2-6 kg per day

Racehorse feeds

High energy cubes and mixes for horses in training or intense work. Traditional products are starch based, but modern variants use alternative energy sources such as oil and digestible fibre to support digestive health and aid performance.Some companies offer low energy lay off or rest and recuperation variants for horses on the easy list.

5-7 kg per day

Feed Balancers

Concentrated nutrient-rich pellets, supplying essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Commonly marketed to complement highforage diets, but also as top-ups to existing diets or when cereals, eg. oats, form a large part of the diet.

250g – 1kg

Chaffs and forage replacers A number of chopped fibre products are marketed as forage replacers. Chops and chaffs that can be added to the hard feed to bulk it up or slow down the rate of eating. There is some evidence to show that horses take longer to eat short chop forages than they do hay or haylage. There are also complete fibre feeds available fortified with protein, vitamins and minerals etc., designed as the full compound feed. These aim to fit more closely with the digestive physiology of the horse, and are particularly good for horses or ponies prone to laminitis and digestive issues such as gastric ulcers.

Compound feeds Compounds are balanced blends of ingredients formulated to meet the requirements of horses when fed in conjunction with forage. A recent survey found 87% of owners feed some form of compound, the majority of which was commercially prepared. The market for compound feed is highly fragmented with different products and product forms for every kind of horse or pony (see table below). Balancers are concentrated, nutrient-rich versions of compounds, and the balancer category has itself recently become more fragmented along similar lines to compound feeds.

Supplements Supplements augment the nutrition provided by the main part of the diet. They come in a variety of forms; powders, herb blends, liquids, pastes, pellets, licks - and in a variety of packaging. Under regulations governing animal feed, supplements are considered “complementary compound feeds” as are cubes,

broad spectrum of major and trace minerals together with vitamins, these are designed for topping up micronutrient levels where little or no hard feed is fed. There’s some blurring of the edges here between balancers and broad spectrum supplements in terms of the nutrients they supply. Balancers tend to be in pelleted form whereas

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS APRIL 2016

SQP CPD Feature

ETN CPD Questions Nutrition

SELECT YOUR ANSWERS AND TICK THE BOXES

1. When is grass at its richest? A Autumn B Winter C Spring D Summer 2. Approximately how much does a typical small bale of hay weigh? A 10kg B 20kg C 30kg 3. Why is hay soaked? A To make it the same as haylage B Because horses prefer it that way C To reduce the respirable dust content 4. Does a full haynet of hay contain more fibre than the same haynet full of haylage? A Yes (because haylage contains more water so weight for weight there is less fibre) B No (because a haynet of haylage weighs more than a one containing hay) 5. Haylage can be stored outside A True B False 6. The sugar content of hay and haylage is minimal A Always – forage is high in fibre B Never – Forage is made from grass that is rich in sugar C It depends on growing and harvest factors, so best to check if you are worried. 7. What energy sources in compound feeds are used to help reduce excitability? A Fibre and oil B Starch and sugar C Proteins and amino acids 8. Which of the below is not a current category of compound feed for horses? A Racehorse feeds B Feeds for senior or aged horses C Feeds suitable for chestnut mares D Breeding feeds E Feeds suitable for horses and ponies prone to laminitis F Balancers 9. What sort of supplement would you expect to see magnesium in? A A digestive supplement B A hoof supplement C A calming supplement 10. Which nutrient would you expect to find in a hoof supplement? A Vitamin A B Iron C Biotin

The value of learning… ETN would like to thank Animalife for facilitating this feature to enable SQPs to earn valuable CPD points. Animalife, the company behind Vetroflex, Vetrofen and Vetrocalm supplements, runs an in-store training programme to help retailers enhance their nutritional knowledge and sales expertise. supplements can be in the form of a powder or a lick. - Specific: providing an ingredient or mixture of ingredients designed to perform a specific function. These range from daily addition of salt and/ or oil to the diet to more targeted support, eg. for joints or hooves. The top five specific nutritional concerns of horse owners are hoof quality, joint quality, colic, care of the senior horse and laminitis. Behaviour also ranks highly especially related to supplement purchases.

Different companies takes different approaches to each functional area, and the following table gives some examples of these. Medicinal claims for supplements and feeds are not permitted. There is an exception for laminitis, but only in relation to a product’s (low) starch and sugar content. Claims linking laminitis and hoof health are not permitted.