ETN - Equestrian Trade News - March 2015

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

March 2015 Volume 39, No 3 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

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

2015

BETA INTERNATIONAL 2015

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Editor’s Comment RESEARCHING a feature on BETA International’s 20th anniversary at the NEC, Birmingham (see ETN February issue) was the perfect excuse to look back through two decades’ worth of ETNs. Of course, I got distracted and started reading news stories from way back when. It’s amazing how many people and companies are still around in our addictive industry.

One big change, however, was equestrian consumer magazine circulations. In 1999, Horse & Hound’s average weekly sales figure was 66,898 while Your Horse was flying high with 71,079 per month.

It seems unbelievable that - according to newly published and independently verified ABC figures for 2014 - Your Horse has plummeted to 17,338 with Horse & Hound on 40,705.

Almost certainly, declining magazine sales are no reflection on the quality of the product; but rather an indication of the wide choice of media now available to readers. Having said that, ABC figures are now permitted to include digital versions of the identical product; yet Horse & Hound’s ABC includes just 873 digital copies per week while Your Horse sells none.

The only conclusion is that horse owners must be getting their equestrian media fix for free; either via free publications or online. For sure, social media has soaked up huge amounts of demand – although it’s debatable how authoritative and accurate is the information found there.

I WONDER if some people who design equestrian products ever actually go near a horse, let alone a muddy, sweaty one. And have they ever experienced doing everyday stable chores with gloves on in the half dark?

Yes, you know the sort of product I mean. It all looks lovely when the rep brings it to show you. But put it to work, and it’s another story. Sometimes, the product itself is fine, but the packaging, fittings, fastenings or use-ability hasn’t been thought through properly.

Common culprits are supplement containers. The contents often comprises a highly technical formula to be fed in carefully calculated amounts. Yet if you can get the lid off without it spilling everywhere, you’re lucky if it doesn’t either run down the pot of splatter across the feedroom while you try to get the lid on again!

So well done to Animalife for putting in the effort and coming up with a new style of supplement utensil. See it on page 34 in this issue of ETN. I HAD a terrible pub lunch the other day. I only ate it because I was hungry, a deed which necessitated first peeling a congealed film off the top of the gravy…

Not wishing to offend my companion (who was paying), I didn’t complain. Now I regret it because, surely, it’s in any business’s interest to get feedback, good or bad? But how to go about it?

As a retailer or supplier, what would you rather a cross customer did? Say it loudly for all to hear? Have a quiet word?

Or go away, tell friends and colleagues and never come back?

Surely you’d rather hear the truth - or at least the customer’s version of events - and then deal with it appropriately.

Wouldn’t you?

Liz Benwell

CONTENTS

MARCH 2015

NEWS......................................................................... 4 RETAILER PROFILE C J Puddy Saddlery................................................ 14 PRODUCT NEWS..................................................... 16 PEOPLE.................................................................... 20 COMPETITON GEAR COVER STORY For horse and rider................................................ 22 LAMINITIS AND JOINT CARE COVER STORY The vet’s view......................................................... 26 Product gallery....................................................... 30 BETA INTERNATIONAL 2015 INNOVATION AWARDS Results and judges’ comments from the ETN sponsored accolades..................................... 36 BETA INTERNATIONAL 2015 COVER STORY News, views, reaction and pictures...................... 41 Fashion show report.............................................. 44 2015 BETA BUSINESS AWARDS COVER STORY & GALA DINNER The trade’s glittering social occasion and saluting the winners.............................................. 46 SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS NATIONAL COMPETITIONS Round-up and results............................................ 50 SPONSORS & SHOWS............................................. 52 COUNTY COURT JUDGMENTS................................ 54

FRONT COVER: Scenes from a successful BETA International 2015.

News

4

“Plenty to be positive about”

BETA International 2015 marked its 20th anniversary at the NEC, Birmingham on 22 – 24 February.

The statistics made it the biggest since 2007.

Almost 300 companies exhibited. One in four came from overseas, a record 120 exhibitors were new while a growing pet product sector numbered around 20 companies.

The attendance figure was 4,599*, including 701 re-entries on separate days.

BETA International organisers confirmed increasingly rigorous checks on eligibility to attend the trade-only event. Their action was reflected in a high quality of buyers.

“We had an exceptional show

surpassing previous years,” said Becky James at Haygain. “There was a high footfall of quality visitors from all corners of the industry.”

Lynda Mortlock, an experienced retailer who runs Ingatestone Saddlery Centre in Essex, is chairman of the BETA trade fair committee. “The show looked clean and fresh,” she said. “And there was quite a buzz, with plenty to be positive about.

“James Palmer [BETA International sales manager] and [show organiser] Claire Thomas are highly visible throughout, always ready to help. The end result was a friendly, welcoming show which visitors could come and enjoy as

well as learn something.”

A move to 24 - 26 January for BETA International 2016 was widely welcomed. “We [retailers] tend to put things on hold until after BETA International, and this will get everything moving earlier, which can only be a good thing,” added Lynda.

Sarah-Jane Fedarb, managing director of Finest Brands International (home of Toggi and Champion), said: “We fully support the decision [to move dates] and hope that it will help our retailers.

She reported having “another great show this year. The level of orders was very pleasing, with several new accounts being opened and we have some

promising leads to follow up.” *BETA International attendance is independently audited by ABC [Audit Bureau Circulations]. The 2015 figure is awaiting final verification.

Trade shows to clash News broke during BETA International that the dates for the American AETA trade show and Spoga Horse Spring in Germany will clash next year.

AETA is to run from 30 January to 1 February 2016 with Spoga Horse Spring scheduled for 31 January to 2 February.

BETA International 2016 is on 24 – 26 January.

• More BETA International reaction, reports and pictures starts on page 36.

ADVERT INDEX Agrihealth...........................................................18 Airowear.............................................................13 Allen & Page.......................................................29 Animalife........................................................3 & 7

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

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.

Baileys’ Horse Feeds............................................33 Frank Baines Saddlery Ltd....................................51 Battles.........................................................10 & 11 BETA International.................................................8 British Equestrian Directory...................................54 British Horse Feeds..............................................35 Citrus Lime............................................................5 Classified.............................................................53

Copyright: All material is copyright Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd.

Faulks & Cox Ltd..................................................25

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

Life Data Labs Inc................................................30

Jenkinsons Equestrian............................................9 John Whitaker International.................................23 Natural Animal Feeds........................................ OBC Noble Outfitters...................................................19 Norbrook Laboratories Ltd....................................21 Charles Owen......................................................17 SEIB......................................................................5 Saracen Horse Feeds............................................27 Sherwood Forest................................................ IFC Snowhill Trade Saddlery......................................IBC

ISSN 1462-9526

TopSpec..............................................................31 Web Directory.....................................................54

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

www.equestriantradenews.com

5

BETA INTERNATIONAL 2016

MOVES TO JANUARY

NEXT year’s BETA International moves to the earlier date of 24 – 26 January.

The move has been prompted by a change in seasonal buying habits, say the organisers.

The 2016 trade fair will remain in its existing halls at the NEC Birmingham and continue to run over a Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.

“Many of our exhibitors and visitors have expressed a preference for an earlier show following a change in buying patterns dictated by today’s markets,” said BETA International organiser Claire Thomas.

“The move also allows us to secure a more prominent position in the global trade show calendar.”

BETA International has traditionally been held in February.

Bitting specialist Neue Schule is to continue as the show’s main sponsor for a third consecutive year in 2016. For details visit www.beta-int.com

Early booking equals savings for BETA International 2016 COMPANIES wishing to exhibit at BETA International 2016 can make significant savings with the show’s early commitment scheme. It delivers a 2.5% discount on stand prices.

To qualify, stand space should be booked by 27 March and deposits paid by 11 September. Full payment should then be made by 6 November.

Qualifying exhibitors will receive their discount in the form of a rebate payment made during March 2016.

BETA International 2016 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, on Sunday to Tuesday, 24 – 26 January. Contact James Palmer, tel +44 (0)1937 582111, email jamesp@beta-int.com or visit www.beta-int.com

Spring spoga closure rumours denied RUMOURS that spoga horse spring is to end after its 2016 running have been quashed by the organisers.

Around 180 companies exhibited at the German trade fair in Cologne last month.

“It’s always useful for us to meet up with our European distributors, and our products were well received. I wouldn’t say it was particularly busy though,” said Chrissy Beattie of Airowear who were exhibiting.

Other visitors told ETN the show was “quiet”.

According to Sarah Kraft, communications manager for Koelnmesse [spoga’s venue]: “There was an 8% increase in exhibitors and stable attendance figures despite the difficult political situation in Eastern Europe.

“Therefore, rumours that spoga horse spring will be taking place for the last time in 2016 are incorrect.”

Spoga horse autumn, which runs in parallel with the garden trade fair gafa, is from 30 August to 1 September. www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

News

XC ban on fixed peaks confirmed BRITISH Eventing (BE) has confirmed its new rule banning helmets with fixed peaks being worn on the cross country phase of affiliated events.

Only jockey skulls will be permitted, says the national sport’s governing body.

BE adds that a jockey skull typically has “no peak, peak type extensions or noticeable protruberances above the eyes (or to the front) and an even, elliptical or rounded shape.”

The helmet’s surface can be smooth or slightly abrasive. A removable cover containing a peak, such as a ‘silk’, can be used.

Helmets with fixed peaks can still be worn for the showjumping and dressage phases if in accordance with BE rules.

“The safety of its members is of paramount importance to BE, and this rule has been introduced to enable BE members to compete in the best personal protective equipment available” said Chris Farr, BE sport operations manager.

Eilbergs sign with new saddle sponsor

6

Supplements company launches 24/7 ordering and online training

ANIMALIFE’S new website enables its Accredited Retailers to order directly from the supplements specialist for the first time.

The site at www.animalife.co.uk offers retailers 24/7 ordering, free carriage on orders over £50 with no minimum order, next day delivery and online training.

The company behind Vetrofen and Vetroflex also marked its debut at BETA International by announcing a ‘click and collect’ service. Accredited Retailers can sign up now; the system goes live to consumers later in the season.

Animalife Accredited Retailers each have their own account at www.animalife.co.uk. Logging in gives access to online training. They can also talk directly with the support team - and order supplements at the click of a button whenever it’s convenient.

Next day delivery is available with free carriage on orders over £50. There’s no minimum order requirement. Retailers can continue to order Animalife products via wholesalers Battles and Trilanco if they wish.

Added value These latest initiatives augment the supplement specialist’s Accredited Retailer scheme introduced last year to support bricks and mortar shops. Online only retailers are ineligible.

Among the 250 businesses who have already signed up is Warrington based Leighs Animal Feeds “Since joining the scheme, we’ve had great back-up, in-store training and point of sale material provided,” said manager Helen Pattinson.

“Importantly, customers are really seeing the difference these products can make.

“It’s so annoying when you spend loads of time with a customer, advising them of what they need, only never to see them again and knowing they’ve just bought it from an online retailer with no overheads or come-back!

“The Animalife scheme has made a real difference to customers’ shopping habits. They’re introduced to the products – then just keep coming back for more.”

Describing bricks and mortar retailers as “the cornerstone of our industry,” Animalife director Ross Riley added: “By providing sound advice alongside a comprehensive selection of nutritional solutions, retailers can offer their customers added value pre- and post-sale.

“Our support package is designed to help retailers build customer relations and generate happy and repeat customers who keep returning to the stores.”

• Find out how to become an Animalife Accredited Retailer at www.animalife. co.uk • See page 34 for more on Animalife’s latest launch in its Lifestage range targeted towards horses and ponies throughout key stages of their lives.

Click and collect: the way forward?

INTERNATIONAL British dressage riders Michael and Maria Eilberg have signed a sponsorship deal with Italian saddlery brand Amerigo.

The agreement also covers Vespucci bridles and accessories.

The Worcestershire based siblings are mentored by their father, the world renowned trainer Ferdi Eilberg. Their top horses include the much talked about young horse champion Woodlander Farouche, medal winning Half Moon Delphi and Royal Concert.

Simon Middleton, managing director of Amerigo’s UK distributor Zebra Products, added: “This collaboration will see us working closely with the Eilbergs both now and long into the future.’

Until last summer, Amerigo sponsored Carl Hester’s saddles. He currently lends his name to the PDS range from Fieldhouse.

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Retailers must harness the growth of e-retailing to drive consumers to their bricks and mortar stores, says Helen Dickinson, British Retail Consortium (BRC) director general.

And click and collect is a good way to achieve it, she adds.

“January is traditionally strong for online sales and this year was no exception,” she said, commenting on a 1.5% increase in out-of-town retailer footfall in January compared with 2014.

Going on to discuss the impact of consumers’ changing shopping habits, she added: “Retailers will be looking closely at these figures to help them harness the growth of e-retailing to drive consumers to their bricks and mortar stores.

“Click-and-collect services are an excellent example of how this is happening right now and innovations in this area are set to continue for some time to come.”

When it’s rolled out to consumers later this year, Animalife’s new click and collect scheme will enable them to order online at www.animalife.co.uk and collect their products from a selected Animalife accredited retail outlet.

The retailer will earn commission on each sale - as well as the chance to secure new customers.

“The retailer will have the opportunity to upsell and demonstrate their service to the customer and ultimately increase footfall in their store,” said Ross.

Animalife Accredited Retailers can sign up for click and collect now.

www.equestriantradenews.com

7

Equestrian industry valued at £4.3 billion SPENDING on equestrian goods and services (excluding racing) is back to pre-recession levels at £4.3 billion per year.

The figure was among early insights from the 2014/15 National Equestrian Survey (NES), presented at the National Equine Forum on 5 March by BETA’s executive director Claire Williams.

The latest NES is the fourth in 20 years. The project, commissioned by BETA and independently researched, began in 1995 to quantify the diverse equestrian sector.

When racing is included, total industry expenditure is approximately £8 billion.

In other new NES findings, there are estimated to be 2.7 million riders in the UK; and 446,000 horse keepers, a figure that was in decline but has levelled out in the past four years.

The NES also covers different equestrian activities, safety and security and detailed expenditure on product sectors. An intriguing early indication is that in-store shopping is increasingly popular.

“In terms of economic impact, the new NES is potentially the most detailed review yet of spending in the sector,” said Claire.

• See the April issue of ETN for more survey findings and how companies can access the information.

Contactless payments on the up CONTACTLESS payments, currently limited to a maximum of £20, are set to be increased to £30 in September.

UK shoppers spent more than £380m via contactless transactions last December 2014, according to the UK Cards Association.

Contactless payment systems are credit and debit cards, key fobs, smartcards or other devices that use radio-frequency identification for making secure payments. The embedded chip and antenna enable consumers to wave their card or fob over a reader at the point of sale.

GROWING APACE: Building work is underway at John Whitaker International’s Rochdale base to double the size of its offices and warehousing. An improved showroom and larger catalogue of products are planned. The extension is due to be completed in May. www.equestriantradenews.com

News

2016

NEC, Birmingham, UK 24-26 January

Save money Book your 2016 stand now!

2.5% OFF YOUR SPACE COSTS A total rebate of 7.5% available (terms apply)

8

Ex-H&H editor joins clothing brand FORMER Horse & Hound editor Lucy Higginson has joined Matchmakers International.

She is working part time with the Harry Hall brand development team.

“Harry Hall is a brand I grew up with,” Lucy told ETN. “Our aim is to reestablish it with regular horse owners to maximize their enjoyment safely and stylishly.”

Lucy is recruiting equestrian professionals to represent the brand and organising Harry Hall consumer events including visits to wellknown yards.

“We want to create a community of ambassadors,” said Lucy who left Horse & Hound after 12 years last summer.

Describing her own equestrian wardrobe as “traditional”, she added that Matchmakers International has “some terrific new products in the pipeline.”

Liz Hopper, the company’s commercial director, said Lucy was “brilliantly placed to work with us as we continue to promote the Harry Hall brand.”

West Country venture seeks business links

Take advantage of our early commitment discount Sign up for a stand by 27th March

Main Sponsor

Contact James Palmer +44(0) 1937 582111 sales@beta-int.com www.beta-int.com

A NEW equestrian enterprise aims to forge links with retailers and suppliers The Dartmoor Derby – a multi-day ride across Dartmoor for around 100 riders – is being planned for 2016.

The organisers are inviting expressions of interest for the supply of feed, bedding, saddlery, farriery, riding clothing, temporary stabling etc in the form of contact, concession or sponsorship.

The venture, which has backing from the Dartmoor National Park Authority, Regional Growth Fund and Visit England, is being developed by the team that runs Liberty Trails, an established adventure riding company on Dartmoor.

“One of the primary objectives of this event is to develop business for the local supply chain,” said organiser Elaine Prior.

The Dartmoor Derby will involve up to five days’ riding between ‘horse stations’ with luxury camping for horses and riders and full back-up provided.

Contact Elaine Prior 07967 823674 or visit www.libertytrails.co.uk/dartmoor-derby

www.equestriantradenews.com

9

Retailer to offer ‘high street’ experience EQUESTRIAN.COM has moved to new premises giving it an extra 20,000 sq ft.

The online retailer’s new 22 acre base is at Bowers Mill, Barkisland near Halifax, four miles from its previous location at Sowerby Bridge.

The last six years have seen “significant growth in the business”, according to CEO Lorraine Meadowcroft.

“The move will now allow us to ensure our customers get the high street experience they deserve for equestrian products,” she added.

Equestrian.com [previously known as Equestrian Clearance Warehouse] plans to introduce 24/7 shifts at busy periods and despatch six or seven days per week.

The company is recruiting staff to work in-house and from home.

“For 2015, customers will see a significant rise in the number of top brands introduced to the site as we work hard with our supplier partners,” said Lorraine.

The retailer is also to continue to sponsor the Hickstead Derby and work with Horse & Hound to promote the major showjumping fixture.

Two famous saddleries share new factory VALE Brothers and E Jeffries are to move into a new factory in central Walsall later this Spring.

British saddlery company E Jeffries was acquired by Walsall based manufacturer Vale Brothers at the end of January.

The purchase from Goold Holdings included Jeffries’ associated brands - Falcon, Eldonian, Wembley, Wembley Pro and Brady bags.

Jeffries’ workforce is being kept on with Dave Darley remaining as managing director.

Vale Brothers owns Harry Dabbs Saddle Makers as well as the KBF99 horsecare brand, Edward Goddard whips and Equerry brushes. Production of its Thermatex rugs will remain in Wales.

Dominic Goold said he was “very pleased” that Jeffries and its staff had found a home with Vale Brothers.

“Jeffries is a great company making great products [and] deserves an owner who is 100% committed to it and to the trade,” he said. “With my other business interests, I don’t have the time to do this properly.”

E. Jeffries, founded in 1820, acquired saddlery brands Falcon and Eldonian in 1987. Brady field sports bags joined the portfolio in 1993. The company is also well known for its bridlework and lorinary.

Retailer’s competition was “unfairly run” A COMPETITION organised by an online retailer was unfairly run.

Rebecca Penny t/a Bridleworks also breached the prize promotions code, says the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) Five complaints were made about a competition on the company’s Facebook page which told consumers there were “in with a chance of your horse or pony being the face of Bridleworks” Entrants were invited to upload a photo and ask their ‘Facebook friends’ to vote for it.

The top 20 would go through to a second round, the winner being chosen by “an independent panel of judges.”

Four complainants said a winner wasn’t announced and challenged whether the promotion was fairly administered. Another complainant believed the voting system wasn’t clearly stated in the terms and conditions.

Rebecca Penny t/a Bridleworks said the competition was administered through an online third-party service.

Both complaints were upheld by the ASA. www.equestriantradenews.com

News

Further fall for magazine sales THE circulation of paid-for equestrian consumer magazines fell again during 2014, according to Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) statistics issued last month.

Horse & Hound, Your Horse and British Horse (the British

12 Horse Society’s membership magazine) are independently audited by ABC. So called ABC figures reflect average sales per issue; weekly in Horse & Hound’s case, fourweekly for Your Horse and five times per year for British Horse.

Digital, as well as print, sales are included in ABC figures.

During 2014, Horse & Hound sold an average of 873 digital copies weekly; Your Horse sold none.

Why apprenticeships work

The only title to see an increase in its ABC during the measuring period from January to December was British Horse.

However, as copies are mailed free to BHS members, it has a 0% actively purchased figure compared with Horse & Hound’s 99.74% and 99.16% for Your Horse.

Overall, the new ABC figures show a continuing downward trend for paid-for publications.

Jan – Dec 2014 Horse & Hound 40,705 Your Horse 17,338 British Horse 74,285 Jan – Dec 2013 Horse & Hound 44,458 Your Horse 20,798 British Horse 69,170 Jan – Dec 2012 Horse & Hound 48,124 Your Horse 23,719 British Horse 69,070 • See comment on page 3

NEWS IN BRIEF • T RILANCO is in the running to win two Red Rose Awards which

celebrate Lancashire commerce and industry. The Poulton-le-Fylde based wholesaler is a finalist in the family business of the year and medium business of the year categories. “It’s the first time we’ve entered and to make it through to the final stages in two categories was beyond our expectations,” said managing director Martin Balmer.

The awards will be presented on Thursday, 12 March at Winter Gardens, Blackpool.

• B ADMINTON Horse Trials says it’s “smartening up” its tradestand

area. Plans include screens to hide the ‘backroom’ workings of the shopping outlets, more conspicuous entrances and better signposting.

The 2015 event is on 7 – 10 May.

• D ODSON & HORRELL opened its new warehouse in January. The

purpose-built facility gives the Islip, Northamptonshire based feed manufacturer an extra 3,721 square metres of on-site storage adjacent to its existing despatch warehouse. The yard has been expanded and covered, creating an all-weather loading facility of a further 2,560 square metres. A voice recognition system has been installed, with solar panelling and a water recycling system due in 2016.

• P ETS at Home’s progress into in-store grooming and veterinary THIS month’s National Apprenticeship Week (9 to 13 March) is set to celebrate the value of young people learning ‘on the job’.

Louise Tuff, manager of Devon retailer Redpost Equestrian, employs two apprentices. As well as working in the shop, Laura Bromige (left) and Narissa Humphreys are being mentored for business qualifications with training provider Haddon Training.

“I decided to hire an apprentice because it was a great opportunity to train my staff to my standards,” Louise explained.

“I already employed Laura and she wanted to do a qualification, so it was a perfect match. Narissa was working Saturdays, didn’t know what to do next and wanted a qualification, so putting her on a full time apprenticeship suited us both as I was not looking to take on another member of staff on full-time wages.”

Laura says the apprenticeship is helping her improve her customer service skills without leaving the workplace. She also likes earning a wage. “It’s giving me confidence and I gain satisfaction knowing I’ve helped customers,” she said At the end of their programme, Laura and Narissa will receive nationally recognised qualifications.

Louise says business apprenticeships are a great alternative to college or sixth form.

“Many employers won’t take on an untrained 16 year old on a full time wage. But with this scheme students get a small wage, which they would not receive at school or college, and also the training. It’s a win-win situation. They can get into the real world and feel valued.”

More details about National Apprenticeship Week can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/ national-apprenticeship-week-2015 MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

services boosted its revenue by 7.8% (to £182.2 million) in the third quarter of 2014. The pet store chain owns Yorkshire based equestrian retailer Ride-Away.

• P ARCEL delivery company DPD plans to work with retailers to open

a network of ‘parcel shops’. Scheduled to start in June, DPD PickUp will operate via 2,500 outlets providing ‘pickup’ points. The Numark Pharmacists chain is the first retailer to sign up.

• M ILLBRY HILL Country Store at Whitehaven in Cumbria won £500

in a national competition for the best in-store or window display of HorseHage dust-free bagged forage. Store supervisor Kaye Stanley, who designed the winning display, is pictured with Karen Howarth (left) of HorseHage.

• S COTTISH eventing venues Blair Castle and Hopetoun Horse

Trials have new concept in main arena hospitality. Members of the Scottish Eventing Business Club can entertain guests at Hopetoun International Horse Trials (25-28 June) and at the European Eventing Championships at Blair Castle (10-13 September).

www.equestriantradenews.com

Retailer Profile

14

A ONE-STOP HORSE SHOP

Chris Puddy sold a few brushes and headcollars when he launched his fledgling retail business 35 years ago. When she visited Somerset based CJ Puddy Saddlery, Julie Harding found a thriving store.

Rachael Showering (centre) works full time, while Kelsey Dyer is a part-time employee. She has started to take over responsibility for Puddys Facebook and Twitter accounts. The dog is called Ollie.

A

dozen colour photographs cover the walls of Chris Puddy’s workshop which adjoins his light and spacious saddlery shop just outside Bath.

In some of the pictures Chris is flying over solid cross-country fences, while in others he’s expertly piloting coloured horses in the show ring.

This is one retailer who has experienced many facets of equestrian life. Chris still rides today, a seven-eighths skewbald mare called Millie who lives in the stable where she was born.

Chris, too, hasn’t moved far from his roots. He made his appearance into the world in the Bristol Royal Infirmary; he then lived in Saltford, moving to his

current home in Keynsham 20 years ago. He commutes a mere three miles to work at CJ Puddy Saddlery near Farmborough - and Millie lives in between the two in a friend’s yard.

“It’s the perfect arrangement,” acknowledges Chris, who moved to these premises where the A39 joins the A368 eight years ago. As the business has expanded Chris has taken on ever more units. His latest growth will see him renting an extra one to house feed and bedding.

“We really will be a one-stop horse shop then,” he smiles.

Thirty-five years ago, when Chris began selling a few items of tack from his small saddlery repair workshop, he would never have

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

imagined that his business would blossom into such a successful enterprise. Now there are 100 saddles in stock.

“The range expanded over five years and eventually I knocked through to the next stable and then into the haystore,” says Chris.

Eventually CJ Puddy Saddlery outgrew its Keynsham location and moved to Saltford. But two years later that location was proving unsuitable — the traffic was so bad that people didn’t want to stop to shop — so the former event rider went in search of something bigger and better.

He found it almost by chance at the former Countrywide site.

“I stopped for fuel and started chatting on the forecourt when I discovered that some units were available. I decided there and then to give notice on my other premises. It all fell into place brilliantly.

“This is a great location. People use this road on their way into Bath and we even get trade from people en route from Devon and

Cornwall. Cars stop at the traffic lights and people come in and spend.”

When Chris left Saltford his turnover doubled in a year.

“The first two years were manic but back then Wadswick Country Store [located 15 miles away] wasn’t so big. We do find that when new shops open people leave us for a while, but they invariably gravitate back.

Competition is healthy and you shouldn’t worry about it.”

A new equestrian store recently opened six miles from Puddys, but it isn’t giving Chris any sleepless nights as it doesn’t offer a saddlefitting service, and nor does it stock the same product range.

“Actually five saddlery businesses located within ten miles of us have closed since we’ve been here, but we will always try and stock different lines from our local competitors,” confirms Chris, who has recently been reassessing how best to use his 2,500 square feet of retail space.

“I’m planning to expand the

Power of social media “NOT LONG ago we revamped our website and we’re also making increasing use of Facebook and Twitter,” says Chris.

We now have 1,100 Facebook friends and just over 200 followers on Twitter, but we’re hoping to expand on this. Kelsey, one of my part-time employees, is about to take it over and she will work to grow it.

“The website, which accounts for about 20% of our business, was first set up 14 years ago but it was starting to look dated. I spent a lot of money getting it to look good, using a specialist company. It was money well spent. Second-hand saddles and end of lines are particularly effective internet sellers for me.” www.equestriantradenews.com

15 ETN asks Chris Puddy…

Chris Puddy outside C J Puddy Saddlery where customers will find personal service, reliability and honesty.

Chris plans to expand in leatherwork, bridlework and training equipment.

leatherwork, bridlework and training equipment and reduce the clothing as people don’t seem to be spending as much on casual items any more,” he says.

“The internet has affected clothing sales for us and while clothing can lose value, leather items can actually gain. Hats and body protectors and other safety items keep flying off the shelves.”

Singer sewing machine Before his retail business really took off Chris mended tack. A job in an accounts department after he left school proved unfulfilling and he decided that his artistic skills, coupled with his equestrian knowledge, added up to a career in saddlery.

“Tack repairs were a big part of my early business,” he says, sitting in the workshop where he still reflocks saddles and mends myriad items, from bridles to rugs and banjo cases. An old black Singer sewing machine sits to the right of the door.

In the mid 1980s Chris began working as a saddlefitter. Now the Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddlefitter and Master Saddler spends three days on the road matching saddles to equines and two days at the Puddys store.

Chris employs one full-time member of staff and four parttimers (all of whom ride) to run the shop with its colourful and artistic displays. However, even after three decades in retail, he still gets a kick out of being on the shop floor.

“Having a good balance in your job keeps you fresh. I really enjoy meeting the customers and I love going to BETA International to meet new suppliers.”

In ten years Chris hopes that Puddys will still be seeing a constant stream of customers passing through its white uPVC door. But he may not be serving them. His plan is to work slightly less and play a little more.

“I would love to do another ridden coloured class,” he confesses. “My mare still looks fantastic and I’ve kept all my gear, even my double bridle.

“Life is short and you have to enjoy the time you have. My father, Victor, having a stroke has made me realise that. He’s been wonderfully supportive to me, doing all my books and banking up until recently.

“Now the tables are turned and I’m keeping an eye on him, but Puddys is my own business and I love the flexibility that gives me.”

How is trade today?

“We’re lucky in that we don’t need to advertise. We did feel the pinch of the recession but turnover during November to December last year was 8% up on the same period in 2013. I couldn’t be happier.

What’s the secret of your success?

“We pride ourselves on our personal service, reliability and honesty. I’d never sell someone something they didn’t need.

Some of my customers have been coming to me for over 30 years.

Another secret is our great range of good quality products at affordable prices. I would love to offer £3,000 saddles but there wouldn’t be the trade for them here.”

What’s your target market?

The showing, hunting and grassroots eventing fraternity, as well as riding club and Pony Club members. Our customers range in age from three to 83. A lot of the people who buy from us, though, are married ladies.

Do you have any famous customers?

Event rider Dani Evans lives just down the road and she’s been coming here since she was in the Pony Club.

Name your bestsellers

Kent & Masters saddles are our bread and butter, but Bates and Ideal are also popular brands. NAF products perform well for us all year, while Ariat footwear has been popular over the winter.

What are your pet hates?

People who come into the shop to try on footwear and then don’t buy. It can take one of my staff an hour to correctly fit boots and chaps and if the customer then goes away and purchases the same product on the internet it is particularly galling.

I also dislike companies who are difficult about returns and insist on substantial minimum orders. I’ve had two do that recently and when I refused they closed my account. For a smaller business like mine, holding £3,000 of stock from one supplier isn’t necessarily good for business. We have to cherrypick to offer our customers a good range.

Who is your favourite supplier?

I’ve bought products from Ackland Clark Wholesale for 30 years.

In the early days they were based in Bristol’s red light area and I would drive over to them for wax or needles in my little car. They are a family business and have given me fantastic service over the years.

Is BETA membership useful?

I love all the informative emails, plus the courses are very useful — although, like a lot of people, I wish there were more in my area.

On the rare occasions that I have needed to phone, maybe about how to handle a complaint or for legal advice, I’ve always found someone very helpful on the end of the line.

The attractive and well organised shop floor.

www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

Product News Grooming made groovy

THESE new groovy grooming kits from Jenkinsons are set to delight pony owners and retailers alike.

Each Elico Kempton Grooming Kit has a striking star design in blue, purple or pink. The RRP is just £9.95.

Attractively presented in a blister pack, each kit includes a body brush, dandy brush, hoof pick/brush, plastic curry comb and plastic mane comb.

The kits are cleverly thought out for retail display too. They can be hung from integral euro slots or – thanks to their flat-bottomed packaging – placed on a shelf.

Elico Kempton Grooming Kits are fresh in and ready to order from wholesaler Jenkinsons this month (March). t Jenkinsons Equestrian 01924 454681

New take on traditional scoop

THE SKῡP is a fresh design of the traditional feed scoop.

It holds the industry standard 2.7 litres. However, it claims to be the only one of its kind with ‘teeth’.

“The teeth are designed to loosen compacted feed,” says designer Emma Lawton.

Another innovation are visual marks for one third, one half and three quarters full, plus liquid measures in pints and litres.

An elliptical handle with a thumb rest means the SKῡP won’t spin in the hand; while its elongated profile reaches into the corners of feed bins.

Made in polypropylene, it comes in four bright colours and is distributed by Battles. t HῡF Design 07976 423810

More new arrivals…

Look out for more new products in ETN’s laminitis, joint and leg care feature which starts on page 30.

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

16 New range “stands out from overflowing supplement market”

BATTLES launched its Lincoln Platinum Supplement range at BETA International last month.

It comprises Lincoln Platinum Calmer supplement (in powder or syringe), Lincoln Platinum Respiratory Supplement, Lincoln Platinum Complete Vitamins and Minerals Supplement, Lincoln Platinum Every Day Joint Supplement, Lincoln Platinum High Specification Joint Supplement and Lincoln Platinum Hoof Supplement.

“To make this range stand out from the overflowing equine supplement market, [it’s] been formulated with scientific research in mind,” says Battles.

Containing optimum levels of essential elements, Lincoln Platinum supplements are suitable for racing and competition.

“This new range has been designed with both the competitive and everyday rider in mind,” added Battles’ managing director Jim Bowen.

“Two joint supplements have been included as we wanted to cater for daily support of horses, and also provide an extra strength formula for those horses in more strenuous work.”

Each Lincoln Platinum product packaging clearly states how many days a tub should last.

ETN asked Battles how the range has been formulated with scientific research in mind. Using Lincoln Platinum Pro 5 Mag Calmer as an example, the company said: “The rationale for using magnesium comes from studies in other species which have demonstrated anti-depressant and anxiety relieving properties. Magnesium supplementation has also been shown to alter behaviour in horses affected by headshaking. Low magnesium status in horses induced chemically has also been shown to affect neuromuscular function. [References provided].

“At present, there are no peer-reviewed controlled and appropriately designed scientific studies which demonstrate that magnesium supplements modulate behaviour in horses. However, the fact that magnesium calmers still outsell all other types of calmer as a group and the wealth of testimonials on horse forums suggest that magnesium calmers do work.”

“Different companies suggest that the form of magnesium used is crucial to the effectiveness of a calmer,” Battles said. “But there is no agreement on which forms work best. Thus, it could be that certain magnesium compounds work to moderate behaviour in some horses, but not in others.”

Lincoln Platinum Pro Mag 5 Calmer therefore includes five different forms of magnesium. They are presented in a wheatflour base with a small amount of dextrose and an aniseed flavour to be given as a daily supplement in feed and as a single use 60g syringe.” t Battles 01522 529206

New helmet has PAS 015 THE Chelsea Air Flow Pro Helmet, new to the Gatehouse range, carries the BSI Kitemark and meets PAS015 2011.

Meeting these criteria makes it suitable for use in competition during and beyond 2015.

The elegant Chelsea comes in black or navy suedette. It’s lightweight and ventilated with a removable, washable lining.

Additional liners are supplied separately.

Available in sizes 52cm to 61cm. t Westgate EFI 01303 872277 www.equestriantradenews.com

Product News Show ring ready

YOUR customers’ horses and ponies can sparkle this Spring with NAF’s new quartet of shampoos.

With presentation and packing as stunning as the results, they’ll look great on the shelf too.

• Show Off shampoo is ideal for getting show ring ready, with its deep clean and wonderful smell.

• Muck Off has a powerful formula to tackle stable stains, a little spot treatment lifting off even the most stubborn offender.

• Shine On is for extra show ring shine. It’s great for ‘silking’ manes and tails too.

• And finally…the cheekily named Pimp My Pony is guaranteed to give every tiny equine the wow factor. t NAF 01600 710726

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

18 Shouldering the burden

THE new Shoulder Guard from Back on Track looks like an anti-rub vest. But it’s much more than that.

As well as minimising rug rubs, it protects the withers and shoulders with three usefully-placed pads.

In addition, the Shoulder Guard provides the Back on Track ‘effect’.

Made from Welltex fabric with infra-red technology, it increases circulation and relieves joint and muscle tension.

Performance horses and those recovering from shoulder injury can benefit from this therapeutic effect. t Back on Track 00 46 1859 0555

www.equestriantradenews.com

19 Dogs have their day

All weather breeches

W F YOUNG, maker of Absorbine horsecare products, has launched an Absorbine ShowSheen coat care range for dogs.

And just think how many of your equestrian customers also have dogs… “Many horse owners who truly appreciate the ShowSheen equine range have requested products for their dogs,” Chris Jacobi of Absorbine confirmed.

•S howSheen Detangler and Conditioner helps keep coats tangle free, while its anti-static, fast drying formula repels dust and dirt. It’s enhanced with the soothing fragrances of jasmine and sandalwood too.

• ShowSheen Bath in a Bottle is a ready- to-use, waterless, norinse shampoo. Enhanced with vitamin E for shiny coats, it cleans, conditions, deodorizes and detangles.

• ShowSheen Stain Remover and Whitener is fast acting and deep-cleansing with Oxi-Eraser stain lifters. It’s fortified with panthenol, green tea and fruit extracts to nourish the coat.

All three products in the Absorbine ShowSheen Coat Care for Dogs range come in 473ml spray bottles.

YOUR customers can beat Spring showers and look good in Selena breeches from the Equi-Theme collection by Ekkia.

With an RRP of £65.90, the bi-colour breeches come in breathable, waterrepellent fabric. A stretch Lycra lower leg ensures no-bulk comfort under long boots.

Two styles are available; one with a full Ekkitex seat and one without. Both have a stretch waist band, slant front pockets and embroidered badge.

Storage with style NEW Bridle King safely stores bridles, its curved top keeping leather kink-free.

Made with two genuine horse shoes, it’s an eye-catching and functional feature for any tack room or yard.

In black or bright zinc plate, the RRP is around £15. t Abbey England 01565 650343

People

20 •Trilanco has appointed Lydia Brenton as area sales manager for Wales, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Shropshire and Staffordshire. She was previously with Ceva Animal Health.

Lydia studied bioveteerinary science at Harper Adams University, holds a national diploma in horse management and is a G-SQP [equine and farm animals].

•Mark Newman, Ariat Europe’s new sales development manager for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, says he’s looking forward to “generating brand awareness outside of the equine industry” as well as maintaining the footwear label’s country and country lifestyle markets.

Mark has previously worked with Kickers, Ecco, Timberland and, latterly, Cat footwear. He enjoys walking and recently completed the 3 Peak Mountain Challenge.

•Frank Baines (left) and Steve Marks were awarded Fellowships of the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) during the society’s National Saddlery Competitions at Saddlers’ Hall in London.

Steve is now semi-retired but remains chairman of The Ideal Saddle Company. Frank, who began his career in saddlery as an apprentice in 1964, is the managing director of Frank Baines Saddlery, the family business he established in 1983.

Find out who won awards at the SMS National Saddlery Competitions on page 50.

•Thomas Moran (below) joined Dodson & Horrell’s east of England sales team in January 2015. He has previously worked in sales for Unilever and Purina.

Another recent appointment is Anna Pyrah (below) as a nutritionist on the company’s technical support team. The Lincoln university graduate previously worked for the Pure Feed Company.

Meanwhile Derek Mackey (right) has joined the board as commercial director. He became head of sales last May, following a career in the drinks business.

•Hilton Herbs has appointed Angie Donovan as its sales and business development manager with responsibility for the American market. She lives in Somerset with her husband, two children and cat and has a keen interest in science, music and the great outdoors.

•Rachel Lumb has joined the sales team at John Whitaker International and Brogini. She was previously with Matchmakers International and has worked in the equestrian trade for 14 years.

• Danielle Waller has been appointed Supreme Products’ area sales manager for the Midlands, Wales and the southwest of England. She previously worked in event management and is a member of the Delami Stud & Show Team that breeds and shows Welsh ponies and cobs.

•Lillidale Animal Health has appointed Ali Howe as UK and international business development manager. Ali was previously with Biotal Equine Gold and then LitoVet.

• Paul Hodgson is the new chairman of British Eventing, taking over from Hugh Thomas.

A former soldier, the joint organiser of North Yorkshire based Richmond Horse Trials owns a family leisure business and works for a pension company. Richmond Equestrian Centre is based at his farm.

Paul’s stepdaughter Chloe Page competes in eventing.

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

•Passing SQP exams – and therefore becoming qualified to prescribe drugs such as wormers - is quite an achievement. So to be the highest scoring E-SQP candidate during 2014 deservedly earned Katie Hest a special award.

Katie, who works for online retailer Supplement Solutions, received her first prize during the 2015 AMTRA SQP Awards at the Animal Health Distributors Association (AHDA) Conference. Pictured making the presentation are Jim Bowen, of award sponsors Battles, and Tom Heap of BBC TV’s Countryfile.

“Although I didn’t take the exam to win a prize, it’s lovely to have my hard work recognised,” said Katie. www.equestriantradenews.com

Competition Gear

EVERY ONE’S A WINNER! ETN explores the latest lines that will have your customers looking great and feeling victorious.

22

Crystal clear BROGINI’S micro-crystal top Livorno and Arezzo boots are made in Italy. A crystalline thread gives the new design a wonderful glisten.

Livorno (plain front) and Arezzo (laced front) are made from soft leather. An elastic rear panel aids a comfortable fit plus ease of putting on and taking off.

With a streamlined shape, these boots have durable soles, zipped backs and spur guards. Sizes are 36-46 with a choice of widths and calf sizes. The RRP is £350. t John Whitaker International 01706 340500

Beating abrasion

Italian inspiration MANFREDI jackets come with interchangeable collars for instant transformation of riders’ looks.

Made in breathable, dirt/water repellent soft shell material, the jackets are machine washable. Four-way stretch and a smooth, anti-crease finish adds to their practical appeal.

With Italian design features, there’s a choice of length in black, navy, royal blue, red or green (with child sizes in black, navy or royal blue). Collars are available in several colours in Clarino, faux snakeskin and velvet diamante. t Westgate EFI 01303 872277 MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Putting on the Ritz IF bling is your customers’ thing, stock this new Mountain Horse Ritz Tech Top. Fun and glamorous, it’s breathable, stretchy, comfortable and easy to wash.

There’s a crisp white collar and button closure at the back.

In white or city navy, the RRP is £39.99. t Horsemasters Distribution 01462 432596

TRI-ZONE Impact Sports Boots have been restyled to include a tough Rotex outer for high abrasion resistance.

The lightweight boots, with laboratory tested breathability, are used by eventing luminaries William Fox-Pitt, Sam Griffiths and Jock Paget.

In one size (horse) trade prices are £33.31 (front) and £38.86 (hind), retailing at £59.95 and £69.95 respectively. t Equilibrium Products 01442 879115

www.equestriantradenews.com

23 Trick of the light – or trick of the trade?

Eyewear and helmets As the maker of eyewear and helmets across sports from skiing to cycling, Uvex knows how to make eye and head protection compatible. Its glasses have flexible arms that grip around the side of the head without interfering with the harness or the lower edge of the helmet.

Flexible ‘nasenpads’ provide an adjustable fit over the bridge of the nose without digging into the skin and leaving red indentations. While the lenses are variomatic, immediately adjusting to lighting conditions and filtering harmful UV rays – hence the brand name of Uvex.

Eventer’s choice

Sunglasses are the round-year, must-have accessory for outdoor folk. And now there’s a way for equestrian retailers to put others in the shade by stocking a specialist version.

EXCITING customers with unusual offerings is key to successful retailing. And add-on sales are the icing on any retail cake.

So surely stocking sports eyewear – or unbreakable sunglasses to you and me – fulfils both criteria?

Well, yes, but wearing ‘shades’ with a helmet just doesn’t work…or didn’t until Uvex – who manufacture both – came along with an equestrian range.

“No-one can resist trying on sunglasses, especially when they are designed to fit comfortably and be worn with helmets something regular high street sunglasses don’t do,” says Maria Wynne of Uvex.

Many riders report that wearing Uvex eyewear isn’t so much a necessity as an enhancement to their performance. Showjumper Jay Halim says it protects his eyes from the white glare that bounces off artificial surfaces and brightly painted fences, enabling him to focus quickly and accurately.

Event riders and endurance riders are increasingly turning to eyewear to prevent streaming eyes and the risk of alien objects blinding them when travelling at speed. Then there’s the glare from sunlight on water…

Uvex manufactures goggles for this purpose in a variety of finishes, as worn by Paul Sims and Bill Levett. While it cannot be coincidence that much admired cross country rider Andrew Nicholson is never without his eyewear.

Jockeys have always worn goggles, and not just to avoid kickback of whatever surface they’re riding on; it’s to prevent their eyes watering so that they can see. National Hunt jockey and Cheltenham favourite Barry Geraghty is an avid user of Uvex goggles.

And let’s not forget every rider’s ever-present peril of the fly in the eye.

Fashion element An important aspect of eyewear sales is fashion. Uvex was de rigeur among the dressage fraternity at Aachen last year. Not only do they look good, but for those wary of the Botox needle, they also prevent squinting, frowning and the onset of unwanted crows’ feet and wrinkles.

Whether they like the look of Aviators, a Matrix design, mirrored (not advisable for card players), tinted or smoked, there’s a Uvex design to suit every customer – with or without their helmet.

Trade prices range from £8.50 to £71.40 – and minimal sales space is required. t Zebra Products 01352 763350

Competition Gear Help! What should I wear…?

24 RET AI TIP L

ETN put some competition gear FAQs to Liz Hayman of equestrian fashion brand Equetech.

Customer: I’m entering my first British Dressage (BD) preliminary competition. What colour jacket should I wear?

Retailer: If you want the jacket for other disciples such as showing and eventing too, then choose a tweed as it’s versatile and timeless. A jacket with a nice over-check adds a bit of glamour, but beware of it being too ‘loud’ if you plan on showing in it.

For dressage at lower levels, a navy jacket is acceptable, complements most horses and is kind to all complexions. Black is very smart, especially with a coloured or black horse, but may look quite harsh if you are fair skinned. Bling is fun, but try not to go overboard; you won’t score extra points for looking like a disco ball. Diamanté around the collar is fine.

Customer: I’m doing working hunter classes with my horse this summer? What should I wear?

Retailer: Always consult the rulebook under which a class is run, but in general the following applies. Always wear a tweed hacking jacket; subtle over-checks will determine the shade of yellow jodhpurs or breeches.

Boots should be brown; gloves brown or corn yellow; shirt canary yellow, cream, blue or lilac to compliment your tweed. Then add a tie to match your outfit, hair scrunch, collar pin, cane and velvet covered helmet. [Plenty of opportunity for add-on sales here].

Customer: I’m planning to enter my daughter and her pony for some lead rein show classes. Can you tell me what we should both wear?

Retailer: The two outfits should complement one another. The rider should wear a tweed or navy jacket with canary jodhpurs and a shirt to coordinate with her tie and pony’s brow band.

Boots should be brown with gloves to match. Finishing touches include a tie pin, hair scrunchy, cane and helmet to match the jacket.

The leader’s jacket should co-ordinate via trims or throughout the entire garment. A crisp cotton shirt, maybe with frills to the collar and cuffs, add to the look. Culottes are usual but trousers or skirts are acceptable. Tights should be worn with flat shoes, or boots if the weather is bad. A matching hat and show cane finishes off the outfit.

Customer: I like the bling and colour as worn by the showjumpers but I also do dressage and can only afford one jacket.

What can you recommend?

Retailer: Try to stick to black or navy because coloured jackets, such as red or green, aren’t acceptable for dressage. A bit of bling is fine but avoid big motifs and diamanté patterns. If you want more than one look on a budget, the Equetech Medley jacket allows you to change collars simply by zipping them on and off.

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

White and light NORTON Pro dressage boots from Ekkia are ideal for dressage warm-up or training.

Made from supple polyurethane, the closed style boots have a rigid inner shell to protect tendons and fetlocks. 5mm foam padding is lined with anti-chafing neoprene.

Black, choco and navy are available as well as ‘dressage white’. Sizes are pony, cob and full. t Ekkia + 33 (0)3 88 07 40 06

Fresh ideas for a new season

NEW from Toggi, the classically styled Monica stock shirt is ideal for eventing With a slim fit and discreet popper fastening, the Aerocool fabric transports moisture away from the skin.

Monica features subtle metallic thread embroideries. In white, and sizes 8 to 20, the RRP is £37.50.

Meanwhile new Toggi Cartwright riding boots feature a curved side zip, rear Cordura panel and side elasticised panel for comfort and fit.

Featuring an anatomic arch moulded footbed with a gel cushion for comfort and shock absorbency, the Cartwright has a lightweight yet hardwearing rubber sole.

In black only, with RRPs from £120, sizes are 36 – 43. t Finest Brands International 0113 270 7000.

Competition gear with a difference DEVELOPED in Sweden and with foundations in ancient Chinese medicine, the Back on Track collection promotes a feeling of well-being.

Garments for horse and rider incorporate Welltex fabric with infrared technology. Ceramic particles are fused into the fabric’s fibres, causing heat to radiate back to the body. This reflected longwave heat supports blood circulation which can relieve joint tension, warm muscles and thus help avoid injury.

Worn next to the skin, the fabric delivers a comforting, relaxing sensation. The garments look good too.

This versatile range means horses and riders can benefit from the Back on Track ‘effect’ before, during and after competing. American showjumper Beezie Madden is a fan: “Back on Track leg wraps and back pads have proven themselves to me,” she said.

“We’ve been using them for a couple of years and I can say without reservation that my staff and I have seen a dramatic difference.”

Other equine competition products include tendon, fetlock and bell boots plus a variety of exercise rugs.

For riders, Back on Track has underwear, wraps and braces to wear on or off the horse. (Photo: Arnd Bronkhorst) www.equestriantradenews.com

25 Safe and sporty AIROWEAR’S new BodyBase Pro offers riders shoulder protection to BETA Level 3 without the need to wear a body protector.

The concept has been shown to reduce the risk of shoulder and collar bone injuries by up to 80% (reference provided).

BodyBase Pro combines protective shoulder panels with a smart, moisture wicking, thermal balancing shirt. It has a stock loop and blends discreetly with any riding outfit.

Internal shoulder pockets secure the protective panels which can be removed for washing. With a honeycomb structure, they are positioned at an angle on the point of the shoulder for effective impact absorption.

When the panels are inserted into the shirt, BodyBase Pro is CE marked to EN13158:2009 and tested to BETA 2009 Level 3 (for shoulder protection).

Available in black or white, the unisex garment comes in a wide range of sizes. t Airowear 01434 632 816 • Airowear has become the title sponsor of British Eventing’s (BE) BE80 Training series for 2015. With more than 140 classes around the country, participants get free support from BE accredited coaches. “It offers a great step into eventing, as well as excellent opportunities to gain training and ultimately create good and competitive riders,” said Roy Burek, managing director of Charles Owen, of which Airowear is a division.

Thumbs up from ‘Mr Stickability’ EVENTER Andrew Nicholson – who’s revered for staying in the saddle at hairy cross country moments - is lending his name to Veredus’ new E-vento boots.

Made in micro-perforated neoprene, 3D mesh ducted fabric enables ‘double ventilation’. As the horse moves, air is tunnelled through inlets and to direct body heat outwards.

Waterproof E-vento boots don’t absorb water and are lightweight.

Protective pads in polyurethane foam help reduce shock on impact.

“My horses’ legs matter,” said six-time Olympian and multiple Burghley winner Andrew Nicholson. “E-vento boots fit, protect and don’t restrict movement. That’s what I need from a cross country boot it’s that simple.”

Available in black, sizes medium and large, the boots retail at £100 (front) and £110 (back).

A free 1kg pot of Veredus Biocare Event Gel comes free with each front pair of E-vento boots ordered (while stocks last). UK distributor Zebra Products has held prices on all Veredus lines at 2014 rates. t Zebra Products 01352 763350 • Andrew Nicholson was the keynote speaker at last month’s International Eventing Forum at Hartpury College. “The meticulous way Andrew approaches his training is exactly why he’s one of the world’s top eventers,” said Simon Middleton of UK and Ireland distributor Zebra Products. “It’s great to have him on board as a Veredus ambassador.” www.equestriantradenews.com

Laminitis, Joint & Leg Care

SPRING

26

HAS SPRUNG...

It’s time for your customers to consider weight management, laminitis, hoof care and spring plant problems, says vet Tom Beech.

A

s every new season approaches, we must deal with results of the previous one. It’s always worth trying to forecast possible pitfalls that may crop up in the future too.

So what of the winter we’ve just had…?

Well, as I write in early February, it’s not been a terrible winter.

With not too much rain, and certainly very little flooding, we’ve had some snow and ice; but all in all it’s been mild.

All this means that for our horses this Spring, the grass will most likely be very lush. In our fields at home it doesn’t look like it’s stopped growing all winter. The first and most important topic, therefore, is one of laminitis and weight management.

Weight management and laminitis

About the author TOM BEECH BVSc MRCVS qualified from Bristol University in 2005. He has worked in Cheshire and Dorset in equine practice. He is the director of the equine consultancy practice Rowan Veterinary Services and also a partner in HorseOst, an equine osteopathic team.

Tom has a strong interest in lameness, especially chronic cases, and prides himself at looking at ‘the whole picture’, integrating nutrition, farriery, saddlery, dentistry, medical and physical examination into his diagnosis and treatment of cases.

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

These two almost always go hand in hand. Horses that are considered ‘good-doers’ are often most susceptible to contracting laminitis.

The key point is that ALL horses are susceptible to laminitis but some are more susceptible than others. Spotting the horses that are more at risk allows preventative measures to be put in place.

Never was the saying ‘prevention is better than cure’ so true.

The heavier-set and native breeds are the usual victims.

Their genetics are geared up to survive in the wilds on very little, so any rich sugars are immediately converted to fat. This also makes

them far more likely to contract laminitis and other such metabolic conditions, much in the same way as obesity leads to diabetes in humans.

Owners of ‘good doers’ must try to keep on top of their horses’ and ponies’ weight and, importantly, also on top of their pasture.

As well as removing ragwort, it’s a wise thing to supplement the horse’s diet with a liver formulation.

The key to any weight management diet is to be honest and accurate. A weigh tape is a good starting point. It may not be 100% accurate, but at least owners get a good idea of whether their horses are gaining or losing weight.

Ideally a digital weigh-bridge should be used, although it’s not always practical to do this as regularly. Some vet practices have equine weigh-bridges, while a number of feed manufacturers equip their representatives with portable versions to take to merchants open days and so on.

Weight can be a subjective issue, so another useful tool is to learn to condition score a horse by taking into account fat coverage of the neck, shoulder, back and rump. There are many websites available showing key areas to look at on a horse to achieve an overall score for that individual. Again, many of the feed companies product helpful charts and literature.

Condition scoring is a useful discipline to get owners into the www.equestriantradenews.com

Laminitis, Joint & Leg Care

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Reducing access to grass with electric fencing is a useful management tactic – and additional sales opportunity for retailers.

habit of knowing what to look for when assessing if their horses are too fat, too thin or just right.

Calorie counting The next stage is to look at what the horse is eating. And this, again, requires accuracy and honesty on the owner’s part. If a horse is putting on weight each week then there is only one thing that’s happening – he’s consuming more calories than he’s using up.

“Well, I don’t feed my horse much and he still puts weight on,” is what I get told all the time…

“You may not be feeding him much but whatever he’s eating is more than he needs,” is my usual reply.

It takes extra care and an objective mind to finely tune a horse’s daily intake. This becomes harder still when the grass quality changes and becomes lusher.

Almost overnight, good-doers’ crests become hard and fat deposits seem to spring up all over their bodies, particularly on the shoulders and rump.

Management tactics Owners need to pre-empt this by using a few tactics. The first is to limit grazing. The preferred technique is strip grazing a paddock so that they get a limited quantity of grass each day.

Grazing muzzles can be used too.

In some cases it’s also wise to let horses graze at night when the sugars in the grass have reduced.

Grasses make sugar during the day via photosynthesis from the sun so

sugar levels drop as the sun goes down.

The first Spring with a new horse, especially a native breed or one at risk of laminitis, can be a challenging time. There’s no telling what may happen and how the horse will respond to this new grazing. So it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Once a horse has had laminitis, he’s more likely to get it again so it’s best to try to avoid it all together. As well as monitoring weight gain owners should learn to check the feet daily for signs of laminitis. In most cases there will be general warmth of both front feet (or sometimes back), the weight will be shifted backwards and it will be painful to walk. If there is any doubt that there may be laminitis present then the vet must be called and it dealt with immediately.

There can be no let-up in the battle against laminitis during the growing period of Spring to winter. When random changes in weather and environmental conditions cause sudden flushes of grass that can bring about laminitis, staying vigilant is essential.

Importance of exercise As well as the intake affecting the weight of a horse, the amount of exercise does too. Keeping the calorie intake the same but reducing the exercise will increase the weight.

Horses should always be feed according to the exercise they do.

And the amount of exercise is, in

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

As grass becomes lush, fat deposits spring up all over the susceptible horse’s body.

many instances, far less than their owners think.

Most horses are over-fed.

A horse on light exercise can be maintained on hay and multivitamins. Therefore owners must be very careful when introducing all these other feeds to the diet. More often than not, they’re surplus to requirement, cause weight gain and related problems.

Hoof care Following the winter, hooves are often in need of attention before horses take to the roads and paths. In many cases, there will be splits and cracks that have occurred whilst out at pasture in relatively wet conditions.

By working with a farrier and if necessary liaising with a vet, most feet problems can be sorted.

Indeed, riding without healthy hooves leaves horses open to abscesses and injury.

Furthermore, if grazing has been particularly wet then the sole of the foot may need hardening up before any stony paths are tackled. Hoof boots can help

while the hoof dries out and toughens up.

A good vitamin and mineral supplement given over winter will help keep the hoof quality high and make the transition back into Spring work much easier.

Pasture problems Ragwort is a very hardy plant that can seem to spread easily for miles in all directions. When consumed by horses it can cause liver damage, so it needs to be detected and removed immediately.

The two most common ways of doing this are physically removing the ragwort plants by digging them out or chemically destroying them with herbicidal sprays. Both have pros and cons.

If owners have ragwort among their grazing, removing the plant must be the goal. But it’s also a wise thing to supplement horses’ diets with liver formulations to boost the health of the liver.

There are many available and good feed stores should stock a few to choose from.

WITH THANKS TO BAILEYS HORSE FEEDS FOR PROVIDING THE ILLUSTRATIONS FOR THIS FEATURE. www.equestriantradenews.com

Laminitis, Joint & Leg Care

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EXERCISE: THE MISSING LINK? Equine weight control and diet have an obvious connection. But what about the importance of exercise? ETN asked some Speedi-Beet Team riders how they manage their horses’ waistlines.

Nikki Hawkins & Corstan Rogue Trader (Harry) Breed - Welsh section C Harry loves his Speedi-Beet ‘tea’ Main activities – Dressage, hacking

and stays slim with NIKKI says: “In long hacks (Photo: summer, Harry Bert Images] goes out at night and is in during the day, allowing him to graze when sugars in grass are at their lowest. He gets oat straw to pick at through the day with a small amount of hay. He has about 1kg (dry weight) of SpeediBeet split into three feeds to which I add a vitamin/mineral supplement.

“If we’re competing in hot weather, I soak a couple of handfuls of Speedi-Beet in a bucket of water to make a tea. This encourages Harry to drink and keeps him hydrated. To keep him fit and competition ready he’s usually worked for approximately 12 hours each week including two three to four hour hacks with hill work.”

Jennie Daniels & Tilly Breed – Irish Gypsy Cob Main activities -

Rebecca Wright & Pumpkin Breed – Connemara Main activities - showing

REBECCA says: “In summer, Pumpkin is ridden five times a week for one to two hours’ hacking and schooling. She lives out on good grazing 24/7, though is restricted at times and sometimes strip grazed. She has one feed made up of 400g balancer and 400g Speedi-Beet, plus a joint supplement.

Pumpkin looks a picture on “Pumpkin never lacks energy.

Speedi-Beet and plenty of exercise.

I like to take her to a show every other weekend. I just have to keep an eye on the quality and quantity of the grass to keep her weight perfect.”

This horse can…

Taking part in historical cavalry displays helps Tilly stay trim.

Historical displays, sidesaddle and hacking JENNIE says: “In summer, Tilly is kept out at grass and has to be muzzled or exercised more so she doesn’t become overweight. As well as grazing, she gets about 300g of Fibre-Beet daily with a balancer. I try to work her four times a week.

“I tend to increase the Fibre-Beet over the weekends we’re away, as Tilly is restricted to a small electric fence corral and needs the additional fibre. With Fibre-Beet, Tilly has a good level of energy for competing or taking part in historical cavalry display weekends.”

Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet are approved by The Laminitis Trust.

Both feeds are non-heating.

YOU must RETAI have seen L TIP Sport England’s ‘This girl can’ campaign encouraging women and girls to take up sport - even if it means getting sweaty - and therefore get more exercise.

So how about a ‘This horse can’ campaign instore? Simply ask customers to submit pictures of their horses and ponies doing what they do best, be it competing hacking or having fun. Prizes could be offered for the best entries in various categories. The competition could be run on either a noticeboard in your shop, via social media or both.

31

DIET: THE VITAL COMPONENT An abundance of seasonal advice and appropriate products is available from leading feed companies‌ Weight control menu THE laminitis-prone need to watch their waistlines - but they still require a balanced diet to support healthy hoof growth and well-being.

Baileys Lo-Cal balancer provides essential nutrients, without the calories associated with a mix or cube.

While pasture and forage may supply plenty of calories, levels of other nutrients can vary.

So supplementary nutrition is advisable, especially for those equines in work, breeding or recovering from injury. Lo-Cal balancer contains good quality protein to provide the building blocks for muscle, skin and hoof and to help maintain top line (not fat) and tissue integrity.

The spectrum of vitamins and minerals includes all those necessary for health and well-being, at levels and in proportions as carefully formulated as those in any broad spectrum or hoof supplement.

Chelated Bioplex minerals are also included as these are more easily absorbed and utilised by the body.

Baileys Lo-Cal balancer can be mixed with as much or as little Baileys Light Chaff as the owner chooses. Light Chaff is a blend of chopped alfalfa and oat straw with a dusting of mint and a dash of soya oil.

Soaked Speedi-Beet is also ideal to feed with Baileys Lo-Cal balancer.

One balancer mug of Speedi-Beet soaked with four mugs of water produces a Stubbs scoop-full for a horse to chew on - but still provides fewer calories even than a scoop of Light Chaff. t Baileys Horse Feeds 01371 850247

Helping hooves SPILLERS Happy Hoof is a low calorie, short-chop forage which contains all the vitamins and minerals a horse needs to stay in good health.

Approved by The Laminitis Trust, it can be used as a bucket feed or as a replacement for hay and is specifically designed to extend eating time. t Mars Horsecare 01908 222888.

The next big thing?

RESEARCHERS from Montana State University found that 60 days of psyllium supplementation lowered blood glucose and insulin levels after a meal in normal, non-obese horses.

Also, when horses were allowed to graze on rapidly growing grasses, those supplemented with 180g of psyllium had lower blood glucose and insulin levels. The same results have yet to be confirmed in horses with metabolic conditions.

A plant-derived substance, psyllium is said to support digestive and intestinal health and is popular with human dieters who say it makes them feel fuller. The feeding of psyllium husks is associated with sand colic in horses. www.equestriantradenews.com

Laminitis, Joint & Leg Care

32

It’s a matter of fat…

A word from the vet…

MODERN equines, just like humans, are getting fatter. And the increased risk of health problems such as laminitis make this a serious issue.

But how should a retailer broach the subject with a customer who is perhaps in denial that his or her horse is too fat? We asked the experts at Allen & Page…

“Obesity is caused by the over-feeding of energy. When the calorific value of the diet is higher than the energetic output of performance, excess energy is converted and stored in the body as fat.

Sometimes this can be a tricky issue to discuss with your customers, so advising on the selection of feeds that are low in starch and sugar, is a good start.

Allen & Page’s Fast Fibre is barley and molasses free. Very low in starch and sugar, it’s suitable for horses and ponies that are good doers, in light work or at risk of laminitis.

Fast Fibre contains good quality fibre sources as well as soya oil and linseed for essential omega 3 oils. It’s balanced with vitamins and minerals and also contains prebiotics to help maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.”

And if you’re still finding it hard to answer those ‘big fat awkward questions’, feel free to point customers towards the Allen & Page helpline… t Allen & Page 01362 822902

VET Simon Woods relies on High Fibre HorseHage to feed inpatients at Shropshire based Fyrnwy Equine Clinic.

“We find it to be a universal forage suitable for all types of ponies and horses,” he said. “It’s high in fibre whilst low in protein and energy and so is suitable for animals prone to laminitis or those that are going through a period of convalescence.”

Simon likes the consistency of High Fibre HorseHage too. “Some batches of hay can contain large amounts of energy and sugars, far more than some haylage,” he explained.

He also feeds HorseHage to his own laminitic pony, reporting: “He finds it very tasty in comparison to the soaked hay he had previously been fed.” t HorseHage 01803 527257

Valuable vitamins – licked!

HORSLYX enables horses on calorie controlled diets to receive vitamins and minerals to support hooves, coat and skin and general wellbeing.

Laminitis prone equines can be allowed to lick for one to two hours per day, says Horslyx. Alternatively, owners can use the 5Kg holder with restrictor bars for 24/7 access.

Horslyx is available in 5kg and 15kg tubs in Original, Garlic, Respiratory and Mobility formulations. t Horslyx 01697 332592

Five star support YOUR customers trust NAF to come up with topical, seasonal solutions.

Cushinaze from NAF includes herbs, such as chasteberry, known for supporting the pituitary gland.

Live probiotic yeasts ensure efficient metabolism, in combination with magnesium to support healthy glucose metabolism. Healthy hooves are supplemented by MSM, with scientifically verified antioxidants giving additional support to the liver.

Ginkgo and ginseng are included to complement ageing animals’ bright, active minds; while Cushinaze also provides immune support for general health and vitality.

Antioxidants blend

Coping with Cushing’s Merchants are increasingly asked for advice about feeding horses and ponies with PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction), also known as Cushing’s disease. Nutritionists at Dengie offer the following tips: Equines suffering from Cushing’s should be fed low-sugar, lowstarch diets. Dengie feeds are ideal as the alfalfa in which they’re based is naturally low in both.

The ration should be balanced and contain a level of energy appropriate to the individual’s condition and workload. Not all Cushing’s cases are overweight.

The Hi-Fi and Healthy feed ranges are suitable for overweight horses and ponies, whereas the Alfa-A range is perfect for those needing to gain condition or that are in work.

As PPID often occurs in veteran horses and ponies, they may also have poor teeth. Feeds that can be soaked, such as Dengie Alfa-Beet and Alfalfa Pellets, provide fibre in an easy-to-chew format.

Feeds approved by the Laminitis Trust are always a good choice.

Dengie has six.

A broad-spectrum supplement or a balancer should be added to straight fibre diets. t Dengie feedline 0845 345 5115

• • • • • •

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Five Star Laminaze is a blend of antioxidants combined with key gut support, bio-available sulphur and targeted nutrients.

The palatable formula maintains hoof health and works to help improve the lifestyle of horses and ponies on restricted diets.

Prebiotics and live probiotics support a stable gut environment, while bio-available sulphur (MSM) is supports healthy hoof growth and strong sulphur bonds within the laminae.

Five Star Laminaze provides important nutrients for dietary support of prone individuals, especially during times of significant grass growth and on frosty mornings. t NAF 01600 710732

Low calorie chewing PACKED with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, Dodson & Horrell Safe & Sound provides a balanced diet for horses and ponies prone to laminitis.

Featuring biotin and MSM, Safe & Sound is a low calorie, low starch and low sugar fibre feed. Ideal for stabled horses and ponies or those on restricted turn-out, its long fibre content encourages chewing and saliva production.

Launched following Dodson & Horrell led international laminitis studies, it’s formulated to be fed at less than 1kg/day for ponies. t Dodson & Horrell 0845 345 2627 www.equestriantradenews.com

33 Does age or disease matter most when feeding veterans?

Streamlined diet with “metabolism boosters”

AGE – rather than disease – is the issue when it comes to feeding senior horses, scientists have discovered.

The preliminary finding comes from recent research into the best way to feed older horses, be they healthy or diagnosed with Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID or Cushing’s disease).

Scientists from the Waltham Equine Studies Group, linked to Spillers, participated in two completed studies leading to published papers with two more due this year.

One study found that there was no difference in digestibility between healthy adult and aged horses when fed a variety of common equine diets.

Another study used the same horses but this time looked at their gut microflora. The results showed that although no significant differences in individual species of bacteria were found, ageing was associated with a reduction in bacterial diversity.

This may explain, in part, why older animals can be at increased risk of intestinal disturbances.

Further work, carried out in conjunction with the University of Kentucky, showed that age is key in influencing inflammation and metabolism rather than whether the horse is PPID positive or not.

“For the parameters we monitored, the research showed that it is being old that is the issue, rather than having PPID,” said Pat Harris, head of the Waltham Equine Studies Group.

This year, the same group of scientists will look further at the nutritional management of senior (aged more than 20) and obese animals.

They intend to explore the effects of diet on gut microflora and examine how this information can be used to improve feeding and management advice. How best to feed the older horse with respect to insulin responsiveness and the ability to manage glucose and starch will also be investigated.

“This should give us a better understanding of the effects of diet and age on metabolism in order to determine optimal nutrition for the senior horse,” said Clare Barfoot, research and development manager at Spillers.

“Preliminary work suggests that this new research may change the way we think of feeding the older horse.”

NEW from NAF, Slim is a palatable weight management supplement, designed to provide essential micronutrients to equines on restricted diets.

A unique blend of ingredients works in synergy with naturally occurring “metabolism boosters” to promote the wellbeing of gooddoers while supporting healthy weight loss.

What are “metabolism boosters”?

Intrigued by this term that’s gaining traction in the human diet market, ETN asked NAF to explain…

“Slim is a natural and highly palatable weight management supplement, designed to provide essential micronutrients to a restricted diet, particularly if they have fat pads or a cresty neck.

“A unique blend of ingredients, including magnesium, works in synergy with marine extracts and turmeric to support equine metabolism and encourage healthy weight loss. Slim should be used in conjunction with a calorie controlled diet.

“We are currently working alongside a number of independent Slim trialists and are awaiting results from these, though preliminary findings look promising.”

NAF recommends the following management tips: Slim is designed to be fed daily, either alone or in feed.

Avoid starchy, concentrate feeds.

Soak hay overnight to reduce natural sugars.

Exercise regularly if possible.

Use a weigh tape weekly as a guide.

Monitor grazing. t NAF 01600 710726

• • • • • •

Laminitis, Joint & Leg Care What to stock…

34 RETAI L TIP

Nicola Tyler BSc (Hons), nutrition director at TopSpec Equine, has some suggestions to help your customers with laminitic ponies.

Forage/chop Many owners find themselves having to change their source of forage if their pony is diagnosed with laminitis. Nutritionists recommend latecut, high-fibre meadow hay with an NSC (mainly sugar) content below 10%. Some customers will go ahead and get their hay analysed, a service some feed firms offer; but while they’re waiting you could offer something suitable. A branded product such as Timothy HorseHage, with an accompanying analysis will be bought with confidence.

Nutritionists often recommend higher levels of chop intake than normal, at least until appropriate hay can be found. So it’s a good idea to keep plentiful stocks of unmolassed ‘lite’ chop in store. One containing an approximately 50:50 mix of straw and alfalfa is ideal, as the sugar and starch level will be below 5%. Suitable examples are TopChop Lite or Dengie Hi-Fi molasses-free.

Balancers These are not likely to be required for laminitic ponies unless they need to gain weight, in which case products like TopSpec Comprehensive Feed Balancer or Baileys Performance Balancer can be useful. For ponies that have recovered from laminitis but need their weight controlled (most ponies), a non-conditioning feed balancer such as TopSpec Lite Feed Balancer or Baileys Lo-Cal is useful.

Supplements This is likely to be the type of product most often requested. And indeed, supplementation is important for overweight ponies on a restricted diet.

The pain of laminitis can often suppress appetite so a pelleted, palatable supplement is ideal. The sugar/starch level must be below 10%.

A suitable product is TopSpec AntiLam. Recommended by vets and farriers, AntiLam combines several supplements with a high-fibre, very low-calorie carrier to make it palatable. The non-heating formula is very low in sugar and starch and cereal-grain-free.

Long-term trials at Middle Park Laminitis Research Unit have shown that horses and ponies on restricted/poor grazing do not gain weight when fed AntiLam. It can also be used very successfully as part of a calorie-controlled diet when weight loss is required.

Salt-licks Ponies confined to barracks on restricted diets should have access to saltlicks.

Grazing muzzles These are becoming increasingly popular with owners of good-doers. They allow freedom of life-style and social interaction; however they should only be worn under supervision as some ponies find them very frustrating.

Recommend that your customers trim the size of the hole in the bottom of the muzzle to suit their pony. Fieldguard muzzles have good padding.

Small-holed haynets Ever more innovative designs are available in these products that slow down the rate of eating hay. The good news is that they work; so you can recommend them with confidence.

Electric fencing Although it’s ideal to let ponies prone to laminitis graze large areas of poor grassland, possibly shared with sheep, it’s rarely possible. Electric fencing is an effective way to limit the amount of grass a pony can eat, but the owner will have to try and increase exercise to compensate for the reduced turnout area.

Hold weighbridge clinics If your premises are suitable, you could ask one of the several feed firms that offer a free service to hold a clinic. This can be done in, say, a safely fenced-off area of your car park and it’s a great way to enable your customers to have their ponies’ weight monitored. Firms offering this service include TopSpec and Dengie. Often sales of associated products increase significantly. t You and your customers can obtain free advice via TopSpec’s multiple awardwinning helpline 01845 565030

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

NEW FOR 2015!

Joint supplement range has added value ANIMALIFE’S latest innovation is a range of apple flavoured liquid supplements in new easyto-pour grip bottles with integrated measuring device.

Launched at BETA International, the Vetroflex Lifestage range complements Animalife’s best-selling joint support formulation, Vetroflex Original.

With four targeted formulations, Vetroflex Lifestage takes a bio-individual approach to joint support supplements by offering products to suit equines at various stages of their lives.

The new range offers additional value to customers with a variety of beneficial ingredients to support not only joint health but all over vitality too.

Vetroflex Growing is aimed at young horses in early training to support optimal bone and joint development.

Vetroflex Healthy is designed for all horses for everyday value joint support.

Vetroflex Senior is a combination of joint and respiratory support nutrients, along with prebiotics and targeted amino acids.

Vetroflex Intense is for performance horses and can be used as a top-up, providing additional nutritional support ahead of intense work and for recovery from exertion.

The principle ingredient in all four Vetroflex Lifestage formulations is collagen hydrolysate.

“This supplies a rich blend of peptides that deliver amino acids that accumulate in the cartilage and other connective tissues with a positive impact on the synthesis of joint matrix compounds,” explains Animalife.

Additional ingredients, such as FOS prebiotics, biotin, apple cider vinegar, MSM and L-Carnitine can be found across the range. The Vetroflex Lifestage range is suitable for competition horses.

Animalife’s new and attractive, user-friendly style bottles are bound to attract consumers’ interest, after which retailers can stock these targeted supplements designed to meet the needs of all their customers’ horses, even as they age. Prices start at £12.99. t To find out about Animalife’s Accredited Retailer scheme 0845 365 0050

• • • •

A painful problem LAMINITIS is an excruciatingly painful condition and one that can threaten a horse’s future soundness or indeed its life. While feed companies’ helplines provide excellent advice on diets for and management of horses and ponies prone to the disease, customers whose animals have laminitis should be urged to seek immediate treatment from a vet. www.equestriantradenews.com

35

HOOF, LEG AND JOINT CARE Magnetic powers EQUILIBRIUM Therapy Magnetic Chaps have earned a good reputation for helping horses with splints, arthritis and general knocks and bumps.

Now owners are reporting their effectiveness on horses and ponies prone to laminitis. One consumer even reports being recommended their use by The Laminitis Trust.

The chaps each have two clinical grade VITAflex magnets contained within pillow pouches. These adhere to the chaps’ lining, allowing positioning where required.

Magnetic therapy improves circulation, accelerating the influx of nutrients and the removal of toxins. t Equilibrium Products 01442 879115

As used by Carl Hester NETTEX Advanced Joint & Muscle Maintenance is designed to help maintain healthy joints and muscles.

Containing bio-available molecules of glucosamine and chondroitin, plus anti-oxidants, Olympic gold medallist Carl Hester is among its fans.

“I’ve used the Nettex joint range for quite a few years”, he says. “Wear, tear and age can all affect performance and well-being.”

Nettex Joint & Muscle Maintenance comes in liquid and powder forms, both with an RRP of £32.99. t Nettex 01634 257150

Fantastically elastic TOUGH as it may appear, a horse’s hoof is made from the same proteins as human skin. In fact, a horse’s hoof is 95% protein, say the hoofcare experts at Life Data Labs.

Shock absorption is a primary function of horses’ hooves. A hoof wall without elasticity is more prone to cracking, and a hoof wall unable to ‘breathe’ naturally cannot maintain a healthy moisture content.

Farrier’s Finish, from Life Data Labs, preserves proteins and supports elasticity of the hoof wall.

A 473 ml bottle has an RRP of £17.50.

New powerful union NEW Cortaflex HA Super Fenn Solution from Equine America combines clinically tested Cortaflex HA Super Strength Solution with Super Fenn.

The combination supports joint mobility for horses in competition or work, or those requiring help due to age or other reasons.

Cortaflex HA Super Fenn Solution contains the key isolates of chondroitin and glucosamine with sodium hyaluronate (HA), silicon and bromelain [a protein extracted from pineapple stems according to Wikipedia].

The product is available in 450gm (RRP £52.99), 4.5 kg (£435), 1 litre (£52.99) and 4 litres (£199.99). t Equine America 01403 255809

Innovation Awards

36

BETA INTERNATIONAL REWARDS INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCTS

The BETA International Innovation Awards, sponsored by ETN, recognised creativity in the equestrian industry.

N

ew products displaying craftsmanship, cutting-edge design and inspiring ideas were honoured in BETA International’s 2015 Innovation Awards. Winners were presented with these industry accolades during this year’s trade fair.

Sponsored by Equestrian Trade News, the show’s media partner, the highly prized awards were open to all exhibitors with products that had not been launched on the market more than 12 months before the 2015 trade fair. This year attracted a record 99 entries, giving the judging panel a challenging task in finding winners in each of the 10 categories.

The judges were Sara Blackshaw, equine category manager of Countrywide Farmers, Alex Colquhoun, chairman of British Eventing’s Young Rider Selection Committee, John Sommerville, a partner in the North Yorkshire veterinary practice Rae Bean & Son, and Sophie Webster, a show rider and producer.

“The awards attracted such a vast number of entries this year that our judges had an exceptionally tough task in selecting the winners,” said BETA International organiser Claire Thomas.

“There were some cracking products across the board and, after consideration, those felt to be truly innovative soon became apparent. We would like to thank our judging panel for all its hard work and congratulate the companies that have been successful in securing an award.

COUNTRY FASHION & FOOTWEAR

Winner Company: Ariat Europe Product: Ariat Country Tall Boot Collection This collection for men and women features new ATS Pro technology to ensure maximum stability with enhanced flexibility, the new Poron XRD smart rebound heel pad to provide extreme impact and high-traction Duratread outsoles. The boots are perfect to wear for everything from long country walks to walking round outdoor events.

Judges’ comments: These high-end boots, with many innovative features, are certainly worth the money. The quality and style are excellent, with nice seams and detail on the leather.

“A lovely, lovely little boot,” said one judge.

Tel: +44 (0)845 600 3209 Email: info.ae@ariat.com Website: www.ariat.com

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

ETN editor Liz Benwell and advertising sales manager Nicki Lewis (left) are joined by Innovation Awards judges Dawn Webster, Sara Blackshaw, John Sommerville, Alex Colquhoun and Sophie Webster, and BETA International’s Jennifer Dalton.

“They can be justifiably proud of their achievement and should make the most of being able to use the Innovation Awards winner’s logo in their marketing for the next 12 months.”

The 2015 Innovation Awards winners were…

Highly commended Company: Grubs Boots Product: Rainline Aimed at the general country, equestrian and agricultural market, these boots reinvent the welly, combining Grub’s unique Superdri technology with lightweight, easy-clean rubber.

They bring to the wellington market a new level of fit, comfort, grip and warmth as a result of the Insufoam stretch bellows on the shaft, Nitrocell, cushioned and insulated footbed and Trax Duraprene rubber sole.

Judges’ comments: Whereas most wellies don’t have enough rubber, these do. They use three different technologies and are available at a very nice price.

The boots have good finishing, a wide range of sizes, are not too heavy to wear and we like the elastic at the back – ideal for wider legs.

Tel: +44 (0)1279 418052 Email: sales@grubsboot.com Website: www.grubsboot.com

www.equestriantradenews.com

37

FEED & SUPPLEMENTS

Winner Company: The Herbal Horse + Pet Product: Ultimate Mix Probiotics, multivitamins and joint supplements are combined in one product.

It is cost-effective and ideal as a general-purpose, complete supplement for horses.

Judges’ comments: This supplement is very appealing and smartly packaged, clearly aimed at the equestrian market.

The principle behind the product is very good.

Contact Dhruv Raheja.

Tel: +44 (0)1252 260 460 Email: dhruv@ramanpharma.com Website: www.theherbalhorse.co.uk

Highly commended Company: TopSpec Equine Product: TopSpec UlsaKind These cubes represent a breakthrough in the design of products to help horses prone to or suffering from ulcers. Ingredients include specific forms of beta glucans, pectin, a long-acting marine-derived antacid, omega-3 fatty acids, soya oil, short-term antacids and highly digestible fibre, all within an ultra-low-starch formulation.

Judges’ comments: Extensive research has gone into this well-produced product, which is nicely priced and in appealing packaging with labelling clearly listing the ingredients.

Tel: +44 (0)1845 565030 Website: www.topspec.com

www.equestriantradenews.com

GENERAL Winner Company: Solar Technology International Product: Solar Mate Solar Hub This is the first easy-to-install solar lighting and power system designed for stables and agricultural buildings, giving good working light and allowing you to charge your phone in remote locations.

Judges’ comments: The low-cost product provides good lighting in a small equine area and is particularly useful if you don’t have electricity. We were also impressed by the 10-year warranty. It should have good market appeal.

Tel: +44 (0)1684 774000 Email: sales@solartechnology.co.uk Website: www.solartechnology.co.uk

Highly commended Company: Forelock Books Product: Forelock books These modern horse and pony stories are aimed at today’s young riders, pony lovers of all ages, happy hackers and non-riders.

Launched in May 2014, the books are available through equestrian retailers and pony clubs, as well as at horse events.

Judges’ comments: The books hit their market of young equestrians and are reasonably priced and beautifully produced.

Tel: +44 (0)1883 674768 Email: sales@forelock-books.co.uk Website: www.forelock-books.co.uk

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

Innovation Awards

HORSECARE EQUIPMENT & (HORSE) CLOTHING Winner Company: Battles Product: Sküp This is the only food scoop on the market with teeth – designed to loosen compacted feed and making feeding your horse a quicker and easier process. It is self-righting and can stand up on its own while the handle can be held in several different ways and has been ergonomically designed to ensure it does not spin in the hand.

Judges’ comments: This is a truly innovative product at a very affordable price. We love the fact that it stands up on its own and can be held in different ways. The clearly visible measurement marks are also very useful.

Tel: +44 (0)1522 529206 Website: www.battles.co.uk

Highly commended Company: Shires Equestrian Products Product: Equi Cool Down These instantcooling body, leg and neck wraps for both humans and equines do not require refrigeration, electricity or gel.

When soaked in water, they will reduce body temperature. The cooling effect can last for hours.

Judges’ comments: What an amazing innovation! It’s a really good concept that’s washable and reusable, and particularly useful in summer. This is a first in the equestrian market.

Tel: +44 (0)1568 613600 Email: enquiries@shiresequestrian.com Website: www.shiresequestrian.com

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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RIDER CLOTHING Winner Company: Kastel Denmark Product: Charlotte Collection shirt This quarter-zip riding shirt is breathable and made in a UV-protective fabric with mesh sleeve panels to provide both a comfortable riding experience and fashion flair.

Judges’ comments: What makes this clever is the mesh sleeves and breathable strips on the arms. It is also really comfortable and of high quality, with good packaging and labelling, and suitable for riders across the board.

Mark Norgaard Tel: +45 (0)5058 7414 Email: mark@kasteldenmark.com Website: www.kasteldenmark.com

Highly commended Company: EquiSports Performance/EquiSox/ JockeySox Product: Performance Posture Trainer The benefit of this product is that it will help the user to obtain and maintain a more correct, balanced and strengthened posture with a neutral spine alignment.

Judges’ comments: This is a very good product that is now being brought to the equestrian market. It is nicely padded with good stitching, making it very comfortable to wear. Thought has clearly gone into the principle and design.

Tel: +44 (0)7802 514404 Email: info@equisox.com Website: www.equisportsperformance.com

www.equestriantradenews.com

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RIDER FOOTWEAR & CHAPS Winner Company: Lorenzini Titanium Product: Spurs Made in Italy, these spurs combine the benefits of pure titanium with the elegance of European craftsmanship. They are lightweight and antibacterial, feature rubber covering for a better grip and are available in four styles.

Judges’ comments: The spurs are made completely from titanium in a lovely Italian design with very good packaging.

The company has further developed the design of spurs, bringing to the market something that is different.

Tel: +39 (0)49 8840271 Email: info@lorenzinihorse.it Website: www.lorenzinihorse.it

Highly commended Company: Ariat Europe Product: Ariat Monaco stretch tall boots This luxurious boot features an innovative stretch-leather construction, with elasticated mesh lining for a close fit. It is made from premium French calf leathers and features Ariat’s sterling logo plaque.

Judges’ comments: This is a wellmade, very attractive boot, ergonomically designed and pleasing on the eye. It is a high-end product based on a European boot but not too tall.

SADDLERY & TACK Winner Company: Neue Schule Product: Neue Schule Turtle Top bit This is an innovative bit that has been designed for the overactive and busy mouth. The horse is prevented from lifting the side arms – cannons – through the joint design, ensuring the bit comes into the desired optimum alignment and giving greater stability.

Judges’ comments: This well-crafted bit is fabulous!

The innovation, extensively researched, is in the alignment of the bit’s mouthpiece. Most bits are designed to sit on the horse’s mouth, whereas this wonderfully designed product means that when pressure is put on the mouth it sits perfectly.

Tel: +44 (0)8446 644600 Email: sales@nsbits.com Website: www.nsbits.com

Highly commended Company: Horseware Ireland Product: Rambo StirrUP This stirrup uses a drop-step mechanism, giving the rider an additional 6in for an easy leg-up into the saddle. The frame is made from highquality, die-cast alloy, with a foot rest of shock-absorbent nylon plastic.

Judges’ comments: This stirrup’s clever mechanism is what makes it innovative, making it easier for riders to mount their horses. It is very well priced and nicely packaged.

Tel: +353 (0)429 389000 Website: www.horseware.com

PET PRODUCTS Winner Company: Animology/Pet Rebellion Product: Woof food bowl Two removable stainless-steel, dishwasher-friendly bowls sit in a shaped, high-gloss floor mount with rubber-grip feet in red, black and white colour options.

Judges’ comments: The design is innovative and attractive, and the product is well-made, cleanable and non-slip.

Tel: +44 (0)1980 630405 Website: www.petrebellion.co.uk Email: info@petrebellion.co.uk www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

Innovation Awards

SAFETY & SECURITY Winner Company: USG Product: USG SOS This tag with an individual ID code attaches to USG body protectors and holds all the vital information needed in the event of an emergency – whatever you choose to store, from contacts to medical details.

Judges’ comments: This is a really sensible product that can help riders in all emergencies.

We like the quantity of detail about riders and their horses that can be stored. It is an idea that has finally surfaced in the equestrian market.

Tel: +44 (0)1981 241460 / mob: 07590 714539 Email: Marylise@usgsport.com Website: www.usg-reitsport.de/

40 Highly commended Company: Hack-Cam (gizapaw.co.uk) Product: Hack-Cam safety products This reflective and hi-viz tail sleeve and tabard promotes safety not only through a warning – “Smile You’re on Camera” or “Please Pass Wide & Slow” – but also by recording with a small attachable camera.

Judges’ comments: The use of an attached camera to a tabard is a breakthrough in the equestrian market, although it has appeared elsewhere. It is useful if you are hurt in a collision with a car and can use it to give evidence in the event of a claim.

Tel: +44 (0)1902 673465 Email: enquiries@gizapaw.co.uk Website: www.gizapaw.co.uk

TECHNICAL OUTDOOR CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR Winner Company: Deerhunter Product: Muflon Aimed at the country outdoor pursuits market, this jacket is breathable and waterproof, and has hand warmers, a detachable hood and an array of pockets inside and out. There are trousers to match.

Judges’ comments: This reasonably priced jacket is smart and well-fitting, and its brown trim gives a hint of European design. The five-year warranty is impressive.

Tel: +45 (0)7422 3520 Email: deerhunter@f-engel.com Website: www.deerhunter.eu

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Highly commended Company: Alan Paine Country Collection Product: Durham lightweight gents’ jacket This gents’ technical jacket, suitable for all-year-round wear, is made of extremely lightweight but robust cotton Cordura. It is very durable and reliable in the toughest conditions.

Judges’ comments: This is incredibly lightweight compared with similar jackets. We like the pleating on the arms and the abundance of pockets, and the competitive pricing.

www.equestriantradenews.com

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BETA International 2015

IT WAS A “BRILLIANT” SHOW...

ETN’s Liz Benwell reports from BETA International 2015

A new and popular stand featured top brands Imperial • Riding, HV Polo and euro-star. “We’re very pleased with

the stand, it’s worked well having a bigger stand,” said UK agent Ian Mitchell. “We’ve been very busy and not had the ‘oh, I run a livery yard but I’m starting a tack shop…’ so much this year.”

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Robinsons founder Jim Bentham was spotted working as hard as ever, despite supposedly cutting down to two or three days a week happy in the knowledge that son Paul is at the helm. So what does the founder of the retail giant enjoy doing in his newfound spare time? “Gardening,” he told ETN, “with a JCB…”

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Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden cuts the cake to celebrate BETA International’s 20th anniversary at the NEC, Birmingham. The show returns to the same exhibition halls on Sunday to Tuesday, 24 – 26 January.

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“Far better than Spring Fair the last time we did it,” was the verdict on BETA International 2015 from greetings card specialist Charles Sainsbury-Plaice. “I was so busy, it was four o’clock before I got a chance to look at my watch.”

It was ‘strictly’ business for Danish shirts and outerwear supplier Kastel Denmark. The new exhibitor’s stand faced the fashion show and soon the pair were foot perfect mimicking the dancers on stage… They reported “a very good flow of traffic.” Describing the show as “quite expensive to do but very professional and with such a positive atmosphere,” Mark Norgaard added: “I’m glad we showed a garment in the New Product Gallery because we’ve had lots of shops coming to the stand having seen that.” Kastel Denmark also picked up an innovation award.

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Pictured at Horseshape are Andreas Rieser and Jochen Friedrich who said: “It’s very international here [at BETA International] with the quality of contacts much higher than at other trade shows.”

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“Brilliant, everything we hoped it would be,” said Barry Donaghey who exhibited stable hygiene product Equissential – and promptly secured a distribution deal with wholesaler Battles.

Emerging companies making beneficial contacts with larger, established exhibitors was a constant theme.

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BETA International’s new January date was a hot topic. “It’s a positive move for the industry,” said Danielle Riggott (left) at Sherwood Forest and Puffa Country Sports. “It will encourage earlier ordering and give retailers the opportunity to get the Spring trading season off to a strong start.” It was a busy show for Sherwood and Puffa with international visitors calling at the award-winning stand with its British theme and sparkling chandeliers. ETN editor Liz Benwell (right) couldn’t resist trying on a Haddington Puffa gilet while interviewing the team.

•“We’ve been manic on all three days,” said Liz Hayman at equestrian fashion label Equetech. “They’ve come from Australia, Sweden, Ireland and Germany…” www.equestriantradenews.com

TopSpec Equine doubled the size of its usual stand and • exhibited Equerry for the first time. The new compound feed

range supports traditional wholesalers and independent retailers. “We were very pleased with the response to the Equerry range and to the offer we had running for TopSpec UlsaKind Cubes,” said Nicola Tyler. UlsaKind also collected an innovation award – and since researching the benefits of its ingredients, Nicola enjoys a bowl of porridge for breakfast every morning.

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“I’m a happy saddler! They’ve been coming from everywhere; we’ve taken orders from Sweden, Australia, France, Finland and the UK,” said Patrick Keane of Patrick Saddlery. “I was so busy, it took me an hour and a half to eat a sandwich.”

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

BETA International 2015

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First time exhibitor Petface’s striking stand inspired visitors to diversify into pet products with its retail-friendly displays. “It’s been fantastic and we’ll be coming back next year,” said Elizabeth Parker. “So many people have horses and dogs – and we’ve had a wonderful response from retailers who can see the potential.”

Huge crowds were spellbound by Deborah Meaden’s common-sense business advice.

The Dragons’ Den star, who was also promoting HOOF - the London 2012 legacy project to encourage more people to ride, is pictured with double gold medal winning para-dressage rider Natasha Baker.

Deborah’s pearls of business wisdom included: “I’ll work until midnight, but I won’t give up my riding time.”

“You only have a business if you can produce a product or service at a price that people are prepared to pay. Therefore you need to test [price] at the very beginning.” “[Backing products with] research is becoming more and more important because the consumer isn’t taking things at face value any more. They want to know why…”

“The lifeblood of any business is profit, so you must balance your love [of the subject of your business] with profitability.”

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Winner of the ETN prize draw – collecting £1,000s worth of stock donated by ETN advertisers and BETA International exhibitors - was D & M Mason Saddlery. See the Scunthorpe based store profiled in ETN soon.

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With scented flowers, carrot cake and champagne on offer, Equilibrium Product’s stand was ‘simply irresistible’ – the name of its latest healthy treat for lucky horses. Ruth Bishop, the nutritional brains behind the launch, is pictured with Equilibrium’s Alison Sherwood Bruce.

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I thought you looked familiar… actress Susan Jameson, author of the Pony Tails short stories collection, was on publisher Forelock Books’ stand. With a string of TV credits, Susan plays Esther Lane in crime drama New Tricks – and her writing was rewarded with an innovation award here.

Lucy Stephens of Jet Set Saddlery and Gail Johnson of Horse Bit Hire receive their Neue Schule Bitting Advisor of the Year awards from company founder Heather Hyde. The winners share £1,000 of Neue Schule products for their store and £1,000 worth of equestrian vouchers to treat themselves.

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“We come to BETA International to find exciting new products for our readers,” said Sara Haines of Redpin Publishing. “And there are some really good ideas here.

Products designed by people needing to find a solution are often the best. There’s a lot of positivity this year too.”

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Giving the thumbs up for BETA International’s new 24 – 26 January date, Tracey Woods of Westgate EFI (pictured with the new Gatehouse Chelsea PAS 015 helmet) said: “It’s a good idea and will give everyone a longer lead time. We weren’t here last year, but we have now decided to come back next year.”

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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A recent investment-winning Dragons’ Den appearance propelled Nicky Fletcher - pictured with Equisafety’s new Mercury reflective silver jacket – into the celebrity league.

“People have even been asking for selfies,” she said.

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Visitors from Spain and Iceland were among those examining waterproof socks at Dexshell. “We’ve done different trade shows since launching last September,” said Susan Shuell, “and this show is really good.” www.equestriantradenews.com

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Neue Schule’s Sarfraz Mein and BETA International organiser Claire Thomas shake on what will be the bitting specialist’s third consecutive year of main sponsorship in 2016. The North Yorkshire based company won an innovation award for its newly launched Turtle Top bit.

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There was a true hero in our midst. Adam Ellis, who was exhibiting his Walsall made bespoke saddles, is to receive a bravery commendation medal on 31 March after foiling a mugging at a Stafford cash point.

Standing in a queue to use the machine, the former soldier turned saddler saw two hooded men knock down another cash point customer as they attempted to grab his cash. As he fought them off, one of the muggers pulled an eight inch knife on Adam who nevertheless restrained the violent villain until the police arrived. The muggers were each sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.

Adam is pictured with Victoria Chinchen who reported “we’ve had a brilliant show.”

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The Shires New Products Gallery was the first port of call for many retailers seeking fresh ideas.

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Did she blink? Inquisitive visitors check out the living statue.

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Enterprising saddler Nick Stone, pictured with his wife Helen, of new exhibitor Utopia Saddles promoted his presence by renting an illuminated advertising hording in Birmingham city centre. “It must have worked – we’ve been very busy,” he said.

Julia Pearce is closing Cardiff retail store JMP Saddlery after 17 • years’ trading on 31 March. “We do a little online business, so I

might carry on with that having seen lots of new ideas here,” she said. Local retail competition as well as personal circumstances have prompted Julia’s decision.

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“Great - we’ll be able to get a head start on the showing season,” said Chris Jacobi of BETA International regulars Absorbine on hearing of the new 24 - 26 January date.

Chris (pictured with Rachael Holdsworth and the label’s new Botanicals range) competes in showjumping up to 1.20m back home in the US.

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The chance to try to destruct the indestructible Wave Fork was just one reason visitors got excited about new exhibitor, American label Noble Outfitters. “We made excellent, quality contacts and took some good orders,” said managing director Corry Taylor. “The position of the stand was perfect with constant footfall from visitors. We’ve already booked for 2016 and I think that says it all.” www.equestriantradenews.com

BETA International 2016 is at the NEC, Birmingham, on 24 - 26 January. For further information or to book a stand, contact James Palmer, telephone +44 (0)1937 582111 or email jamesp@beta-int.com.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

Fashion Show

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RAISING

ETN looks at the clothing collections that were making a stir in the Fashion Show at this year’s trade fair. t’s easy to see why the BETA International Fashion Show is such a hit with visitors. There’s that cool, contemporary stage set and runway, music with a pulsating beat – and the hottest equestrian and country clothing to really set things sizzling.

Sponsored by Ekkia under its flagship brand Equi-Théme, this year’s Fashion Show was a vibrant showcase, a moving lookbook of the latest musthaves for next autumn, winter and spring – with 11 scenes that really set the place rocking.

Ekkia kicked off the proceedings in style by airing its beautifully cut collections of jodhpurs, breeches, signature bomber jackets, polos and competition gear in a colour palette of predominantly white, navy, grey and taupe. Our particular favourite was a sassy pair of paisley-print faux denim jods with sparkly embellishments to the pockets.

Tredstep Ireland was also in the market for sporty rider wear. We loved the brand’s Symphony Collection of elegant white breeches teamed with a body-hugging base-layer with colourcoordinated trims and linings.

Airowear’s range of body protectors, air jackets and BodyBase Pro garments were introduced in an eye-catching scene, combining safety and beauty, as models performed a cleverly choreographed routine complete with yoga moves to illustrate the body

I

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

TEMPERATURES on the runway…

protectors’ free and easy feeling – years away from heavy, cumbersome garments of years gone by.

Covalliero injected both colour and texture into the show with a range of quilted and zipped jacket and skirt combos. The sage green and red – and grey and turquoise – colourways were certainly eye-catching, as was an unusual pink and purple apron with large pockets for carrying grooming tools.

Toggi introduced its autumn/ winter collections to the runway in a riot of colour and fabrics. Quilted gilets, tweed jackets, knitwear and some fabulous boots all succeeded in turning heads – as did a gorgeous plum jacket with a wonderfully contoured hemline.

Sister brand Champion strutted its stuff to highlight an extensive range of riding hats, including some embellished with a panel of colourful crystals for those that like a bit of bling.

Horseware Ireland showed an almost preppy side with jods and breeches in red, cream and navy featuring piped detail to the front pockets. We loved a burgundy top with striped sleeves and bold letter “H” emblazoned on the front – very Ivy League – and a burgundy jacket with toggle fastenings and elbow patches.

Derriere Equestrian certainly raised eyebrows with a collection of Padded Support System underwear for men and women. Buyers sat upright in their seats as the range of pants – in a selection of cuts, from shorts to cheeky bikini briefs – were put on parade.

Padded sections of the garments were discreet and did nothing to detract from the overall outline.

Caldene positively cantered on to the runway with a collection in grey, navy, white and burgundy. A competition jacket in royal blue with electric blue elbow pads and collar was a real scene-stealer, as was the brand’s seriously stylish padded burgundy coat with full-length zip and waistcinching belt.

Jackets and coats continued through the final scene of the show with a stunning range from the Harry Hall stable. We were particularly taken with a figure-shaping blouson jacket in aqua featuring a gathered back and delicate detailing.

Last but not least was an amazing selection of Harry Hall’s hi-viz wear, including jodhpurs featuring a yellow or pink strip running vertically down the leg – and matching gilets. What a great way to stay safe and stylish. www.equestriantradenews.com

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BETA International 2015

RETAILER REACTION ETN catches up with visiting buyers…

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“We have come from Germany to gain new partners in the UK,” said Francesca Sharman of retailer Riders Deal. “This is such a well presented show with good organisation and many new ideas to see. We have easily filled two days.”

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“Things are still steady in Yorkshire,” said Kieron Anderson of Wharfedale Equestrian in Guiseley near Leeds, “but at least by coming here you can get some good deals and compete with the [e-commerce] websites.” He also sourced some “nice new wellies” and found it useful “to see people you only ever speak to on the phone.”

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Bennie van der Berg and Jane Tidy of Cambridgeshire based store Equicentric enjoyed a glass of bubbly with Animalife’s Tradelife manager Lorna Davies. “It’s our first time here and we’re very impressed with the show,” said Jane.

“And we love these products too.” (See News in this issue for more on Animalife’s new direct-to-retailers initiative launched at BETA International)

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“We come every year and it’s always a good experience,” said Peter Goodman visiting from Brookes of Doncaster with his son Tom. The family business was founded in 1888, and Tom is the fifth generation. “We’ve been looking for tweeds which are all the rage at the moment,” said Peter.

“We like Bucktrout Tailoring tweed as some is made with Yorkshire cloth.”

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“We’re so exhausted, we’re glad we came on the free coach [provided by the show organisers] and haven’t got to drive home,” said Viv Hewetson and Sarah Reed from Cumbria based Aspatria Farmers. “In fact, there’s so much to see, we might stay over next year. There’s such a good atmosphere; we’ve found some great deals, new products and really enjoyed ourselves.”

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Elaine Sutcliffe from White Rose Equestrian singled out Neue Schule’s bitting demonstration as “really interesting.” She added: “the show is particularly good this year.”

• “Everyone we’ve met on every stand has been so knowledgeable • Since retail shop Hilltop Horses is just 20 miles south of John that it’s been a really informative day,” said Lynda Swendells and Nikki Burman who visited from Dorset with Saddle Sense. They found new innovations in saddle pads and liked the Horseshape saddle fitting system from Germany.

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Roslyn Stewart and Stuart Yule, of BETA Business Awards finalist Silverburn Browbands had flown in from Aberdeen. “The show is really well organised with good signs everywhere,” said Roslyn who liked the look of Carrots’ elasticated gloves as she starts expanding her e-commerce business. “We need items that are a bit different and easy to post.”

• Jae Ma Seo of Korean wholesaler Dasmonta, visiting for the

second time, said he’d “seen many good products.”

O’Groats, reps rarely visit –which prompted Anne Cormack and Tracey Boyd to make the trip to BETA International. “We love seeing the clothing mixed and matched on stands,” they said. “The fashion show was very entertaining; being near the front we gave a really good view of the footwear in action.”

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“The general vibe is fantastic,” said Ash and Victoria Bodey of Cirencester shop Equiboodle. “We’ve had our best visit so far, because we now have more experience doing the show. And we’ve found a fair few new products.”

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Australian wholesaler Michael Blazely of H. Leffler was making his first visit. “I’d been recommended to come here and I’m pleased I did. It’s a really good show,” he said.

AWARD-WINNING STANDS ON SHOW

This year’s Best Stand Awards – sponsored by The Wine & Hamper Company – were judged by Lara Downes, of the show’s chosen charity, World Horse Welfare, and retailer Barrie Mortlock, of Ingatestone Saddlery Centre.

BEST SMALL STAND BEST LARGE STAND Winner: Toggi/Champion (Stand F6.1) Judges’ comments: This bright, attractive stand was also enticing from the outside with smart external displays. Clear branding meant that we knew instantly which company the stand belonged to. It was clean and tidy with extremely busy staff who greeted us when we approached and made themselves available to book appointments should we wish to.

Highly Commended: Sherwood Forest (Stand Q3.1) Judges’ comments: An extremely eye-catching stand with fantastic displays of merchandise, including a bold table centre-piece that created a great focus point for visitors. Members of staff were instantly identifiable and provided a warm welcome. www.equestriantradenews.com

Winner: Stubbs England (Stand K4.2) Judges’ comments: A stand that made the very best out of a small space. It was bright, creative, tidy and welcoming.

Staff were clearly branded and jumped to their feet when we approached. Polite and displaying great product knowledge when asked about their ranges, they were there to engage with visitors and did an admirable job.

Highly Commended: Breyer Model Horses (Stand L3.1) Judges’ comments: A stand that was extremely pleasing to the eye and cleverly designed and merchandised to echo the brand’s beautiful product ranges. White picket fences gave a distinctly country feel and products were placed smartly on parade. Staff were extremely helpful and keen to interact with customers – and genuinely interested in hearing what they had to say.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

BETA Business Awards

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Highly prized awards celebrate industry winners

2015

ETN reports on this year’s BETA Business Awards

T

he 2015 BETA Business Awards lived up to their reputation as the high point of the equestrian trade calendar as a record number of industry members gathered to recognise and celebrate those who had made outstanding contributions to the industry. These highly prized trophies were presented to companies and individuals during BETA’s glittering annual Gala Dinner, at the National Motorcycle Museum, near Birmingham, on Sunday 22 February.

Guests arrived dressed to the nines and enjoyed a drinks reception before taking their seats for dinner. After the meal and awards presentations, they got down on the dance floor or enjoyed some interactive fun in a Gold Cup Challenge racing game.

The event’s raffle raised a record of £1,718 for Riding for the Disabled. Prizes included a leisure spa break voucher worth £240 from Whittlebury Hall, a set of glasses from Burridge Trophies, a hamper of goodies from Blacks Solicitors and champagne from BETA. “Our congratulations go to all the winners and everyone who was nominated for an award,” said BETA executive director Claire Williams. “We were overwhelmed by the sheer number of nominations we received and the judges, as usual, had a tough task in selecting the final winners. The BETA Business Awards continue to grow year on year and have evolved to reflect today’s business environment with the inclusion of a social media award for the first time.”

The winners of the 2015 BETA Business Awards were...

HAYGAIN NUTRITIONAL HELPLINE AWARD Winner: TopSpec Equine, Thirsk, North Yorkshire Runner-up: Allen & Page, Thetford, Norfolk Presented by: Tim Oliver, Verity Smith (with Uffa) of Haygain.

With an increasing number of feeds and supplements on the market, giving the trade and consumers more choice than ever, BETA wished to highlight the importance of reliable and accessible nutritional advice.

Nominations were invited from retailers and consumers, and the final judging was based on these and mystery callers posing questions designed to challenge each helpline.

This is the eighth time that TopSpec has won the award and the judges described the service offered by the company as “outstanding once again!”

HARRY HALL RETAIL EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR Winner: Rachel Ealey, Tower Farm Saddlers, Rugby Runner-up: Samantha Francis, Countrywide Farmers, Ashbourne, Derbyshire Presented by: Edward Wakefield of Matchmakers International.

This award is given to the retail employee showing initiative, excellence in customer service, good product knowledge and a commitment to retailing. Both winner and runner-up were finalists last year.

Rachel has worked for Tower Farm Saddlers for 13 years and, according to her employer, is the sort of assistant we would all like to be served by but rarely get.

A judge concluded: “She was a delight to talk to and balanced sound product knowledge with real enthusiasm for the ranges she sold.”

EQUINE CAREERS SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR Winner: Shane Broughal, of Horslyx, Casco, Tredstep, Zilco, Schockemöhle Sports and Prestige Italia Presented by: Emma Dyer of Equine Careers.

This award, presented by Equine Careers, recognises excellence in product knowledge and service to retail customers. Nominations received from retailers were followed by interviews with the finalists.

Nominators for this agent frequently used the words helpful, patient, efficient, hard-working and professional. A judge was particularly impressed when Shane told him that the most important part of his job was to serve his customers well, be honest and have products that he really believes in – key elements in the agent’s role, which is all about building and maintaining relationships.

CALDENE COMPETITION EQUESTRIAN EVENT OF THE YEAR Winner: The Equestrian. com Hickstead Derby meeting Runner-up: Horse of the Year Show Presented by: Edward Wakefield of Matchmakers International.

This award acknowledges the event (at which tradestands are present) that best works with its exhibitors and takes their requirements and views fully into consideration.

Judges, visitors and stand holders agreed that the Hickstead Derby, which has been running for 53 years and attracts 40,000 visitors each time, is iconic and held at a spectacular venue. “The organising team are spot on – nothing is ever too much trouble,” they concluded.

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

www.equestriantradenews.com

47 BLACKS SOLICITORS TRADE SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR Winner: Battle, Hayward & Bower, Lincoln Presented by: Paul Kelly of Blacks Solicitors.

Judged by the retail trade, this award goes to a manufacturer, distributor or wholesaler that offers the best delivery, customer service, product knowledge and awareness of retailer requirements.

Nominators applauded the company’s efficient ordering and delivery services, along with consistently good customer service.

The judges added: “Battles impressed us with its attention to detail and astute use of customer research.”

Small Retailer Winner: Tower Farm Saddlers, Earls Barton, Northamptonshire Runner-up: Equicraft of Backwell, Bristol Presented by: Nicky Mackenzie of SEIB.

SEIB RETAILER OF THE YEAR This award is divided into four categories – large, medium, small and mail order/Internet retailers. It is presented to those retailers that offer outstanding customer service. Final judging took suppliers’ votes into account, as well as including visits by mystery shoppers.

A Tower Farm Saddlers nominator said: “The store is like an Aladdin’s Cave and the staff are always friendly and reliable.”

Judges added: “This year, the shop really did excel.”

Large Retailer Winner: Wadswick Country Store, Corsham, Wiltshire Runner-up: Aivly Country Store, Ringwood, Hampshire A nominator for Wadswick Country Store said: “They have such friendly and helpful staff.”

Presented by: Nicky Mackenzie of SEIB.

A judge added: “Once again, they out-performed the rest in all areas. They have a great grasp of product knowledge, staff are fantastically friendly and professional, and there is a beautiful store environment.”

Mail Order/Internet Retailer Winner: Supplement Solutions Runner-up: VioVet Presented by: Nicky Mackenzie of SEIB.

A nominator for Supplement Solutions said: “They are amazing – nothing is too much trouble.”

Judges added: “The person answering my telephone enquiry had a great knack of gauging my knowledge level and responding accordingly. I was left feeling inspired to buy. Yet again, a high standard was shown across the business.”

Medium Retailer Winner: Redpost Equestrian, Totnes, Devon Runner-up: Colne Saddlery, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Presented by: Nicky Mackenzie of SEIB.

UKTI EXPORT AWARD Winner: Bliss of London Presented by: Jane Holderness-Roddam (BETA President).

Nominators for Redpost Equestrian said that customer service is impeccable.

Judges added: “Staff were always helpful, whether on the phone or in the store. They offered excellent service, with comprehensive product knowledge”.

This award recognises a company that has generated a substantial and sustained increase in export activity over a period of at least three years.

The judges felt that Bliss of London showed clear structure to its strategy and impressive results.

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

BETA Business Awards

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TSM RIDER AWARD This award acknowledges sponsored riders who make the greatest contribution to the trade and work hard for their sponsors. This year, for the second time, the award has been divided into two sections – amateur and professional. An independent panel of judges selected this year’s winners.

Winner – Amateur Rider: Mike Hodgson Presented by: Tim Smith of TSM. Nominator Abbey England said: “We started sponsoring this young carriage driver in 2011. Two years later, he became reserve champion with his team of Shetland ponies. In 2014, he took bronze at the FEI Youth Championships and was named Young Driver of the Year by British Carriage Driving. He provides us with countless training features, participates in photo shoots and his next project is a series of ‘how to’ videos.”

Winner – Professional Rider: Roberta Sheffield Presented by: Tim Smith of TSM. Nominated by: Bliss of London, Showerking, Cyclo-ssage, Safemix Equestrian Bedding and Mark Westaway & Son. Judges were impressed with the wide support from all her sponsors and the professional and enthusiastic way in which she approached each sponsorship, displaying in-depth knowledge of their products and a willingness to promote them at every opportunity.

BETA SOCIAL MEDIA AWARD Winner: Weatherbeeta Presented by: Claire Williams of BETA. Judges said that the company displayed strong creative content, a good understanding of its customers and a good mixture of technical product and fun interactive posts.

“Weatherbeeta also supports the trade well with easy-toshare content and information,” they added.

BETA LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Winner: Ken Lyndon-Dykes Presented by: Jane Holderness-Roddam (BETA President).

Ken received the Lifetime Achievement Award for the great contribution he has made to the equestrian industry for many years, promoting the importance of saddle fitting and playing an influential role in both BETA and the SMS. Horses have been a huge part of Ken’s life – he even gave up a place at Oxford to run a trekking centre in Wales. He became a fully fledged member of the equestrian trade some years later quite by accident after the plane he was flying in the 1972 British Air Race crashed following a bird strike and he woke up in hospital to be told that he would probably be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his days.

Until then a high-earning executive in the publishing industry, Ken found himself unemployed. Rather than be defeated, he rallied and came up with the idea of selling saddles by mail order.

Ken’s resolute spirit was illustrated by his passion for the saddlery industry and the determination he had to walk again after his accident. He developed his own rehabilitation programme and, before long, he was eventing at national and international level.

In 1973, Ken opened his first equestrian retail outlet, which he built into a chain of 56 shops and “shops within shops”. This business was eventually sold in 1999 to the board of directors.

He began producing saddles in Walsall in 1974 and had such illustrious clients as King Hussein and Queen Noor of Jordan, and world-class riders.

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Ken became aware of the deficiencies in saddle fitting, where consideration was given to the comfort of the rider – but little or none to the welfare of the horse. This concern sparked a lifetime’s interest in this vital service and he has lectured and trained on the subject all over the world. He has played an influential role in the SMS and was a BETA Council member from the early days. He is still an active member of the trade association today and sits on BETA committees.

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BETA Gala Dinner

A glittering affair

T

his year’s BETA Gala Dinner was attended by a record number of people from across the equestrian industry.

Guests gathered at the National Motorcycle Museum, near Birmingham, for a champagne reception before enjoying a three-course dinner with friends and colleagues, then contesting a Gold Cup Challenge racing game and hedging their bets on the roulette table. ETN joined in the fun…

Laura Dolphin and Jo Har row, of Den take in the party atmosp gie Horse Feeds, here.

Dressed to

black-tie affair the nines for this

ddlery team.

e and the Colne Sa

are Maurice Emtag

The table’s stunning centrepieces were provided by Breyer Model Horses.

Carriage driver Mike Hodgson, Clair e Hogarth, Phillips, of Abbey England, join the of TSM, and Peter party.

Pru and Henry Welton, of Tower Far take to the dance floor. m Saddlers,

sts gather for the BETA

A record number of gue

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Gala Dinner.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

SMS Competitions

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Saddlery talents shine through “THE standard of craftsmanship was to a very high level and the attention to detail and creative flair on display has been outstanding,” said SMS president Peter Wilkes following these annual competitions and evening reception.

The annual event is supported by the Worshipful Company of Saddlery. Osborne Tools and Abbey England were sponsors.

The Best in Show award went to Helen Leedham who collected the Bruce Emtage Memorial Plate for her leather horse’s head in the President’s Choice class. “I wouldn’t like to say how many hours of work it took, as it was a project I developed during spare time and after work,” she said.

Vale Brothers celebrated Steven Delaney’s win in the Trade / Company saddle category for any design of leather English astride saddle as well as the Open Saddle

section for any design of saddle suitable for cross-country or showjumping.

The achievements saw him take home the Neil McCarraher Trophy for the most attractive and commercially viable saddle in the Trade / Company saddle section.

The Les Coker Millennium Trophy for the Best Entry by an Apprentice went to Victoria Scott of Hastilow Competition Saddles for her saddle entered in the trainee saddle class.

Frances Kelly once again took home the Alf Batchelor Memorial Trophy, presented by John Batchelor for the best bridlework entry, repeating her 2014 performance to much applause.

The Side Saddle Association Trophy for the best side saddle went to Clare Barnett who received the award from Janet Senior, chairman of the Side Saddle Association.

RESULTS CLASS 1 - Master and Apprentice. A snaffle bridle and reins.

1st: Emily White and Charlotte Chamberlain Cirencester Saddlers Premiums: Emily White, Charlotte Chamberlain, Guy Barrett and Julia Balfour CLASS 2A - Trainee Bridlework A Running Martingale conforming to Level 2 City & Guilds Skills Assessment specification for those in year’s one and two of their training.

Sponsored by Osborne Tools 1st: Corrin King, Capel Manor College; 2nd: Eva Shiyanova, Capel Manor College; 3rd: Susan Neil, Capel Manor College; 4th: Heather Osborne, Capel Manor College.

Premiums: Corrin King, Eva Shiyanova, Susan Neil, Heather Osborne and Lydia Newsome CLASS 2B - An Atherstone Girth conforming to Level 3 City and Guilds Skills Assessment specification for those in year’s three and four of their training.

Sponsored by Abbey England 1st: Kirsty Thomson, Royal Mews; 2nd: Tanya Baldwin, The King’s Troop RHA; 3rd: Lois Wybraniec CLASS 3 - Trainee Saddle Any type or size of Leather Saddle (must be suitable to meet the criteria of C&G Level 2 or 3 Saddle specification) 1st: Victoria Scott, Hastilow Competition Saddles; 2nd: Michele Christensen, Jan Guldborg Jensen; 3rd: Kerry Salomon, Saddlery Training Centre; 4th: Leslie Evans, White Rose Saddlery Premiums: Victoria Scott and Andrew French, Ideal Saddle Co. MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Tim Smith reports from the Society of Master Saddlers’ (SMS) National Saddlery Competition held at Saddlers’ Hall, London at the end of January.

President's Choice winner Helen Leedham

CLASS 4 - Intermediate Bridle - no more than 7 years in the trade Any type or size of Leather Roller 1st: Kirsty Thomson, Royal Mews; 2nd: Lois Wybraniec; 3rd: Julia Balfour, Chobham Rider Premiums: Kirsty Thomson CLASS 5 - Special Open Class A Rolled Dog Collar 1st: Helen Reader; 2nd: Frances Kelly; 3rd: Tiffany Parkinson Premiums: Helen Reader and Frances Kelly CLASS 6 - Small Business Saddle Makers Open to those making no more than 10 saddles a year. Any design of English astride leather saddle 1st: Ingrid Sanders; 2nd: Pamela Foesch CLASS 7 - Trade / Company Saddle Any design of leather English Astride Saddle 1st: Steven Delaney, Vale Brothers (Harry Dabbs Saddles) Premiums: Steven Delaney, Vale Brothers and Dennis Townsend, Ryder Saddlery CLASS 8 - Open Harness A Breastcollar 1st: Catrien Coppens; 2nd: Louise Palmer, Saddlers’ Den; 3rd: Derek Pratt Premiums: Catrien Coppens and Louise Palmer CLASS 9 - Open Bridle A Bridle suitable for Cross Country 1st: Frances Kelly; 2nd: Kirsty Thomson, Royal Mews; 3rd: Jennifer Roy Premiums: Frances Kelly, Kirsty Thomson, Jennifer Roy, Abby Nowell and Lisa Hoskins www.equestriantradenews.com

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Awards winners

COMPETITION TROPHIES Master of the Worshipful Company of Saddlers Mark Farmer with Master and Apprentice winners Charlotte Chamberlain and Emily White

CLASS 10 - Open Saddle Any design of leather Saddle suitable for Cross Country or Showjumping 1st: Steven Delaney, Vale Brothers (Harry Dabbs Saddles); 2nd: Mike Roper, Ryder Saddlery; 3rd: Andrew Hastilow, Hastilow Competition Saddles Premiums: Steven Delaney and Mike Roper CLASS 11 - A Side Saddle 1st: - Clare Barnett; 2nd: Jocelyn Danby Premiums: Clare Barnett CLASS 12 - The President’s Choice A Leather Table Decoration with an Equestrian Theme 1st: Helen Leedham ;2nd: Jeanette Hutchinson; 3rd: Chris Taylor.

Premiums: Helen Leedham, Jeanette Hutchinson, Chris Taylor, Ruth Wyatt and Mary Wing To

THE Tony Byrne Memorial Trophy for the best Harness entry by an Apprentice or Trainee was awarded to Derek Pratt for his entry in the open harness class.

The Tony Russell Memorial Trophy for the best harness entry was awarded to Catrien Coppens for her entry in the open harness class.

The Alf Batchelor Memorial Trophy for the best bridlework entry was awarded to Frances Kelly for her entry in the open bridle class, presented by John Batchelor.

The Neil McCarraher Trophy for the most attractive and commercially viable saddle in Class 7 was awarded to Vale Brothers, presented by Neil McCarraher The Side Saddle Association Trophy for the best Side-Saddle Entry was won by Clare Barnett. Presented by Janet Senior, Chairman of the Side Saddle Association.

The Les Coker Millennium Trophy for best entry by an Apprentice was awarded to Victoria Scott for her saddle entered in the trainee saddle class.

The Bruce Emtage Memorial Plate Best in Show was awarded to Helen Leedham for her entry of the horse’s head in the President’s choice class.

Sponsors & Shows

52 • Event rider Laura Collett, pictured with former National Hunt star Kauto Star whom she’s retraining for dressage, is riding on Equipe saddles.

“I’m a huge fan as they’re so comfortable to ride in and also look the part,” said Lambourn based Laura. “I’ve noticed not only a difference in my horses’ performance but my riding stance too.”

Simon Middleton, of Equipe’s UK distributor Zebra Products, said: “It’s great to have Laura on board; she’s a rising star in the world of eventing.”

• Event rider Piggy French has joined Team Animalife, becoming the latest big name to be sponsored by the company behind Vetrofen and Vetroflex, “I’m very pleased to become part of Team Animalife,” said Piggy.

“I really believe that by providing the correct support through targeted supplements my horses can perform to their optimum.

“I have used products from the range, including Vetrofen, for some time and see a noticeable difference in performance levels.”

Animalife director Ross Riley said he was looking forward to supporting Piggy’s young and established horses.

“I love the ethos that Piggy and her team take to horse care and nutrition,” he said. “Her obvious dedication to the horses shines through and her drive for success resonates with our brand.

Also part of Team Animalife are show jumpers Trevor Breen and Nicole Pavitt, dressage riders Gareth and Rebecca Hughes, plus an ever growing group of amateur riders who represent the brand at grassroots level.

• Supplements and horsecare supplier NAF is to sponsor a qualifying series for this year’s National Pony Society (NPS) Mountain & Moorland Working Hunter Pony final at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS). Twenty-two qualifiers held nationwide at popular show venues culminate at the RIHS at Hickstead in the summer.

• Baileys Horse Feeds is continuing to support the Northern Stallion Showcase. The event, which enables breeders to view stallions representing many breeds, types and bloodlines, takes place at Park End Equestrian near Hexham, Northumberland on 21 March.

More than 45 stallions from studs across the country are expected to take part. There are a limited number of tradestands available.

“It was exciting to be involved with last year’s inaugural event and we look forward to meeting even more breeders this time,” said Jane Buchan of Baileys Horse Feeds.

“Successful breeding is about attention to detail and the Northern Stallion Showcase gives mare owners the chance not only to select the right stallion but also to discuss many other aspects of mare and youngstock husbandry.”

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

• Young international showjumper Spencer Roe has landed himself a sponsorship deal with Plevin, maker of Snowflake equestrian bedding. The Lincolnshire based rider’s team of six horses, including his top ride Wonder Why – seen here at the World Equestrian Games - will be bedded on dust-extracted Snowflake Standard made from 100% virgin softwood.

• Carr & Day & Martin has a number of 250th anniversary celebrations lined up this year. One of which is a new sponsorship of 14 year old para-dressage rider Izzy Palmer.

Izzy has cerebral palsy.

She says that riding helped teach her balance and how to gain better use of her limbs. She has recently won a place on the World Class Development Programme which identifies future championship medallists.

“We’ve always championed young, upcoming talent and we are very much looking forward to being able to support Izzy over the coming season,” said Amanda Flowers of equine care products specialist Carr & Day & Martin.

• British Horse Feeds’ brand Speedi-Beet continues its title sponsorship of the British Showjumping HOYS Grade C Championship for a fourth year this season. National qualifiers lead to a final at the Horse of the Year Show in October.

“The qualifiers attract a large number of competitors and provide an excellent platform for promoting Speedi-Beet,” said Will I’Anson, of British Horse Feeds.

“We like to invest in equestrian sport; sponsorship is our way of giving something back to the industry in which we thrive.” www.equestriantradenews.com

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS MARCH 2015

CCJs

List your website here

For more information call 01937 582111

54

County Court Judgments from England and Wales and the Scottish version, which are called Court Decrees.

The judgments listed are those recorded by the Registry Trust Ltd and appear to be of a commercial nature. Judgments/Decrees can be for damages rather than debts, and their listing here does not imply an inability to pay.

WHITE HOUSE TACK AND FEED LIMITED, WHITE HOUSE FARM, TOFT HILL, BISHOP AUCKLAND, DURHAM, DL14 0QF, £3,330 ALEXANDER SCHWAB T/AS SADDLE BROOK CLUB, 39 ALMA STREET, SHEERNESS, KENT, ME12 2AX, £962 LOGWOOD STABLES LIMITED, MANOR HOUSE, 35 ST THOMASS ROAD, CHORLEY, LANCASHIRE, PR7 1HP, £902 VICKI SHARP T/AS SOIGNE EQUINE, WARREN STABLES, PREES HEATH, WHITCHURCH, SY13 2AG, £328 EQUINE COMMERCIAL SERVICES LIMITED, UNIT 8, LYE VALLEY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, STOURBRIDGE, WEST MIDLANDS, DY9 8HX, £1,168,

MARCH 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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