Ebm March 2014

MARCH 2013 Issue 142

Spring fashion Tops and jackets Page 36

Trade Fair Reviews Business Matters Laminitis

Monthly

EQUESTRIAN

Bringing buyers & suppliers together www.ebmonthly.co.uk

www.puffacountry.com TEL: +44 (0) 115 942 4265

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Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 EMAIL: www.ebmonthly.co.uk

sales@puffacountry.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 4 News 10 First Aid and Complementary Therapy

Stock staples, vital signs, massage and magnets

14 Company Profile

Veterinary Thermal Imaging Ltd

16 Laminitis & Weight Issues New research on the condition

22 Talking Point

Equine degrees and career planning

34 Business Matters A look at VAT

36 Let’s Talk Products

Spring/summer tops and jackets

40 On the Market Pick of the products

41 Ken Lyndon Dykes Debating land use

42 Suppliers Directory

24 Trade Fair Reviews

BETA International and Spoga horse spring 2014

On the cover EQUESTRIAN

BUSINESS

Monthly

Tottie’s Dove jacket

Editor: Vanessa Britton

editorial@ebmonthly.co.uk

Advertising Sales: Tel +44 (0)1953 852931 advertising@ebmonthly.co.uk

Production: Tel +44 (0)1953 852946 allison@ebmonthly.co.uk

Design: Phil Wells studio@presspoint.co.uk Equestrian Business Monthly, The Old Dairy, Watton Road, Hingham, Norwich, Norfolk, NR9 4NN, UK Tel: +44 (0)1953 850678 Fax: +44 (0)1953 851936 enquiries@ebmonthly.co.uk www.ebmonthly.co.uk Disclaimer Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the information and reviews contained in this magazine are both accurate and up-to-date, neither Equestrian Business Monthly nor its contributors accept any liability to any party for loss or damage incurred by reliance on the information contained in this magazine or through omission or errors, howsoever caused.

If you have a Smart phone, iPhone or Android phone, all you have to do is download a QR code reader app and scan the barcode and it’ll take you directly to the Equestrian Business Monthly website where you can access the latest news stories, features and products on the market.

March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

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FORWARD FEATURES April

* Equestrian wholesalers * Paddock maintenance * Show ring success * International focus – import/export * Business matters – show and event participation Let’s Talk Products – spring and summer rugs

May

* Summer: feeding for performance * Rider safety from top to toe * Fly control * Equestrian sponsorship * Business matters: media and marketing * Let’s talk products: horse boots Our media pack and a full list of features for 2014 is available. To get your hands on either of these, email: allison@ebmonthly. co.uk. Furthermore, give us a call and see what we can do for you over the next 12 months.

UK NEWS

A round-up of the UK’s equestrian trade news

European farriers battle it out

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n elite band of farriers and blacksmiths from across Europe will be gathering at Myerscough College, Preston, Lancashire for the European Farriery Championship and Convention in July. The European Horseshoeing Championship is on July 25–27 with the Farriers Convention taking place on July 26 and 27 and the event is hosted by the British Farriers and Blacksmiths Association.

The European Farriery Championship is a highly sought after, prestigious title which showcases the very highest standard of farriery in Europe. The Championship occurs once every two years; with members of the European Federation taking turns to host this event – it will not return to the UK for some time.

16 countries with a maximum of four farriers from each country will take part in a hotly contested series of Championship Classes to earn their place in the Top Ten Final on the Sunday.

The Championship, combined with the Convention, will create an unmissable event in the diary of farriers, farriery apprentices, hoofcare specialists and interested parties in 2014. With a bustling marketplace incorporating a ‘Product Demonstration’ area, a captive audience awaits equine industry specialists wishing to promote their products.

For sponsorship or tradestand enquiries please contact: Claire Brown on 07747 602978 or email claire@forgeandfarrier.co.uk.

For information visit www.efcc2014.com.

Alan Paine at the races

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eritage brand Alan Paine is delighted to announce that Sky Sports At The Races presenter Simon Mapletoft has agreed to become an Alan Paine Brand Ambassador together with Jo Mapletoft, Group Sponsorship Manager of Arena Racing Company and a widely respected figure in British horse racing.

Simon and Jo are looking forward

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If you have some news you’d like to share email us at: editorial@ebmonthly.co.uk or tweet @EBMonthly

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

to helping to raise the profile of the brand in the equestrian sector. Simon will be sporting Alan Paine’s best-selling Compton tweed together with their performance Durham waterproofs whilst Jo will be wearing some of the exquisite jackets from the Duchess collection together with a ladies Compton tweed ensemble and the Durham ladies jacket.

New face at Trilanco

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rilanco has appointed Heather Stephenson as ASM for the North East of England and East Midlands.

Heather was previously with Westgate EFI and brings with her a wealth of equestrian experience as well as knowledge of the animal health and pet sector thanks to her upbringing on a small holding.

“I was excited by the chance to work for a bigger company and take on more responsibility, as opportunities like this don’t come around very often,” says Heather.

“I am excited to be joining such a well respected team and to represent such a comprehensive range of products. Having worked in equestrian sales for four and a half years, I can’t wait to combine this experience with my agricultural knowledge and work with our customers, helping them to grow their businesses.”

Heather will be covering the counties of Cleveland, Co Durham, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Humberside, Isle of Man, Lincolnshire, North Yorkshire, Northumberland, Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire, Staffordshire, Tyne and Wear and West Yorkshire.

Extended license for Equest Pramox

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quest Pramox oral gel, produced by Zoetis, has been licensed for use in breeding, pregnant and lactating mares and has been shown not to adversely affect the fertility of mares.

Equest Pramox is an oral gel containing moxidectin and praziquantel for single dose control of all three species of tapeworm, roundworms including encysted larval stages of small redworms, and bots.

Fieldhouse Riding Equipment Showroom Grand Opening!

With new products from Justtogs and GFS, 2014 will not disappoint.

Combining elegant styles with practicality, the new products are extremely versatile. New footwear is on offer including a new long leather competition boot, new leisurewear for both ladies and teenagers, new bridlework and horse clothing from GFS and Pessoa to name just a few.

Make an appointment with our Sales Representatives to preview our 2014 collections now.

Telephone 01922 616777 sales@fieldhouse.co.uk www.justtogs.co.uk â– www.gfsriding.co.uk

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March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

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UK NEWS

Student enterprise

Horslyx Winning Wynnstay display Ambassadors

Young Enterprise group from a Norfolk college has set up a business producing clothing to support a range of charities, including Redwings Horse Sanctuary.

The company is called Kryptex and representative Kieren Gonzalez explains: “We are a Young Enterprise group which was put together to compete in a nationwide competition to represent our school. We are all in Sixth Form at Wymondham College and we have set up the business to experience what it’s really like in the business world and to give us experience whilst earning a bit of money along the way. FIGHT is a clothing brand which sponsors different specified charities.” One of the designs is an anti horse abuse T-shirt and the group has many equestrian links so it is a cause close to their hearts. Find out more at www.fightofficialclothing.com

s a way of supporting those riders committed to their sport, Horslyx has developed a new Ambassador Scheme that has selected six budding amateur riders to represent the company for 12 months.

After a huge uptake in applications, Horslyx has selected the final six riders based on their passion and dedication to equestrianism, together with their commitment to feeding the ‘Horslyx’ way.

With Ambassadors from varying disciplines around the country Horslyx is proud to introduce to the team Hampshire eventing enthusiast Nicki Strong, dedicated Shropshire event rider Bonnie Fishburn, Sheffield based amateur Kim Chapman, Whitby dressage rider Cara Shardlow, Reading Para rider Katherine Cooksley and Derbyshire showing producer Jane Steeples.

Horslyx product and sales manager Gillian Neill is excited to get this new scheme off the ground.

“This is the first time we have run anything like this and we were thrilled with the response,” she says. “All six riders demonstrated a fantastic understanding of Horslyx and I am fully confident that they will all be the perfect representatives when out and about. We can’t wait to work with them over the next year.”

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A

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n in-house competition organised by Dengie and the Wynnstay Group challenged retail staff to create the most eyecatching and successful display for the feed company’s latest product, Healthy Hooves Molasses Free.

Staff throughout all branches – including Camarthen & Pursaint Farmers – revealed their creative sides to produce fantastic and inspired visual arrangements and Newport (Shropshire) was deemed the winning store, with Stafford and St Asaph runners-up.

Store manager William WatsonJones and equine specialists

Lizbeth Komar, Lindsey Hidderley, Joe Drew and Gareth Jones were delighted to be presented with a bottle of wine each from Dengie national sales manager Chris Allen, who visited the store to offer his congratulations.

“We were really pleased to win the competition,” said Liz. “The display definitely made people stop, look and take notice of the product – and, most importantly, encouraged those who had never done so before to try it. All our hard work and time and effort have certainly paid off, as we have seen an increase in repeat sales.”

National Equine Health Survey

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eading charity Blue Cross is calling on horse owners to spend just five minutes in May to complete the online National Equine Health Survey (NEHS).

Now in its fourth year, NEHS is an annual survey run by the charity, in partnership with the British Equine Veterinary Association.

It is a quick and easy online snapshot survey that is helping to discover more about common health issues in horses, directly from horse owners themselves.

NEHS data has revealed crucial information about common diseases such as skin problems, lameness, weight issues and colic. The results are shared across the sector to help establish

benchmarks for equine health and disease in the UK and define priorities for future research, training and education. The data is also released to equine and veterinary colleges and universities to be used as primary source material.

Last year’s survey revealed that 18.6% of horses were suffering with lameness issues, predominantly degenerative joint disease, a 5% increase on the previous year. This suggests a need to increase awareness of lameness management and prevention amongst the veterinary industry and owners.

Visit www.bluecross.org.uk/NEHS or email NEHS@bluecross.org.uk to register.

Award for top equine health student

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he UK’s top three SQPs have been named at a ceremony at the annual AHDA (Animal Health Distributors Association) Conference, held on January 28.

Prizes were given to the students with the highest scores in the 2013 professional SQP examinations One of the winners is equine specialist, Rebecca White of Beeston Animal Health, a webbased company which specialises in products for companion animals and horses. “I decided to train to become an SQP,” says Rebecca, “because I was keen to expand my knowledge, so that I could offer customers advice on worming and flea treatments and so on.”

Rebecca believes SQPs make

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an important contribution to animal health. “SQPs are qualified and very knowledgeable,” she says. “We can tell customers how to safely and effectively use animal products, as well as help them develop worming plans or overcome a flea infestation for example. Often customers’ problems aren’t difficult to solve, they just need someone to explain the best treatment,” she says.

This year’s other winning students are Amanda MacRaild, who works for Pets at Home in Scotland and specialises in companion animal care, and Jennifer Evans who is qualified to advise and dispense all medicines in the POM-VPS (Prescription-only Medicines – Veterinarian, Pharmacist, SQP) category. Jennifer, who works

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

for Clynderwen & Cardiganshire Farmers Ltd, also won the AHDA Cup sponsored by Novartis for the best student from an AHDA member.

Almost 5400 SQPs work in country stores, pet stores and veterinary practices across the UK. “Horse, pet and livestock owners are increasingly aware of SQPs and the value of the work they do,” says Stephen Dawson, Secretary General of AMTRA, the independent body which oversees SQPs. “SQPs have to study throughout their careers in order to keep their professional qualification. Because of this, they can give the latest advice on a range of treatments. Many owners rely on SQPs to help keep their horses, pets and livestock

healthy,” he adds.

“I’d like to congratulate all our winners,” continues Stephen.

“The SQP qualification exams are moderated by Harper Adams College,and are designed to be challenging. Our SQPs are a hardworking group, and at AMTRA we are keen to recognise their commitment and professionalism through these annual awards.

Many of our students this year scored highly in their written and oral examinations: our three best students have done extremely well in the face of so much competition.”

Over 800 SQPs qualified in 2013, bringing the total number of SQPs working across the UK’s animal health industry to almost 5400.

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UK NEWS

KAN body protector up for award

Investment in people

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H

ndicating that the development of equestrian safety products is at the forefront of innnovation, the KAN body protector has been shortlisted for an inaugural Sports Technology Award.

The KAN body protector was designed and developed by entrepreneur Wendy McCaughan who saw the need for a safer and performance enhancing body protector for female horse riders. Wendy, who has previous experience designing bullet proof vests, formed a partnership with Knox, the leading motorcycle protective wear company and as a result, the KAN body protector is the first in the world to incorporate smart foam technology used in motorcycle protection.

Wendy said: “I am delighted that the KAN body protector has been shortlisted for these awards. This is a culmination of many years of hard work bringing motorcycle technology, developed by Planet Knox, to the equestrian market.

“Injuries to horse riders can be life ending, with serious injuries life changing. I know that the KAN body protector will contribute to reducing injury as it provides greater protection than more traditional body protectors.”

With technology influencing sport like never before, The Sports Technology Awards reward and celebrate the best and most innovative technology advances within sport.

The awards are being judged by some of the biggest names in the industry including Olympians, World Cup winners, leading coaches and representatives from cutting-edge digital brands such as Twitter, BT and the BBC. Rebecca Hopkins, Director of the Sport Technology Awards explains: “The influence of technology on sport continues to grow and can often be invisible as it contributes in so many unseen ways. The Sports Technology Awards have been created as a showcase for the companies which enhance all elements of the sector and the response has been amazing.

“It is testament to the work of KAN body protectors that they fought off significant competition to make the shortlist.”

The winners of the Sports Technology Awards will be announced on April 4.

SMART training Wendy McCaughan, the designer of the KAN body protector, with Charlie

In last month’s Equestrian Business Monthly Ken Lyndon-Dykes spoke out about the problem of customers getting a saddle professionally fitted then taking details and buying online cheaply.

Here is a reader response: Dear Editor,

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Level-2 Certification in Business & Administration from Yeovil College. Tom joined Hilton Herbs in September 2012 on a full apprenticeship – a milestone for the company as he was their first ever apprentice – and completed his NVQ with a combination of day release and work-based learning.

Hilton Herbs also welcomes new team member Lise Miniussi who joins the French Business Development & Customer Service team, with a brief to support and expand one of the company’s most important export markets.

Tom and Anne-Marie celebrate success

Reader response

I completely agree with the words of Ken. I am a qualified Saddle Fitter and have seen the rise in the number of people trying to get saddles cheaper off the internet.

I always give my customer a copy of my measurements and assessment.

If I get a feel of them wanting to buy elsewhere I explain that if they do, I cannot guarantee that the saddle will fit. The saddle companies I deal with hand make their saddles. Each one is

ilton Herbs Ltd is pleased to announce that two of its production team members are celebrating gaining their NVQ qualifications.

Production assistant Anne-Marie Miller gained an NVQ Level-2 Certificate in the Principles of Business & Administration from Strode College. Anne-Marie is back working for Hilton Herbs after a few years’ break to start a family and, eager to learn, sees this certificate as a stepping stone to further qualifications.

Warehouse and dispatch assistant Tom Teversham gained an NVQ

unique. Most do understand this.

The last customer that did this was so desperate for a saddle he went and bought off the internet. He couldn’t wait two weeks for the saddle, that I had ordered, and wasn’t interested in his £200 deposit!

Sadly in this ever increasingly fast moving society I feel this practice will grow.

Educating our customers will help.

Regards, Jane Feasey (QSF)

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

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series of SQP CPD events called ‘Excellence in SMART Worming – The Evidence Based Approach’ is planned for three venues across the UK this April.

Worth 40 points of AMTRA accredited CPD, or seven hours of self-accredited CPD, the workshops, organised by Ridgeway Labs and Merial Animal Health, will provide a practical approach to the essential issues of worming, updating delegate expertise and understanding of treatment strategies.

Presentations and workshops include a WEC Masterclass, a special look at mares and foals, the benefits of SMART worming (Simply Monitor Assess the Risk and Treat accordingly) with case study discussions, worm control programmes and concluding with a ‘Question Time’ panel.

The 2014 events take place on; ■ April 3 at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire ■ April 8 at Reaseheath College,

Cheshire ■ April 16 at Writtle Agricultural College, Essex There is also a planned workshop at Bicton College, Devon on September.

Booking is via a £50 deposit per delegate, refundable on attendance or, if preferred, will be sent to World Horse Welfare.

Workshop places are limited and on a first come first served basis, so book early to avoid disappointment.

For further information please contact the organiser, Laura Stokes, laura@shernacre.co.uk or speak to your local Merial territory manager.

The SQP CPD seminar

.

We all know that the weather is unpredictable in the winter months, but with Toggi’s new Autumn Winter outerwear collection, every eventuality is catered for.

Start the Season with our cosy Grafton jacket. Truly stylish with a detachable collar for a touch of luxury, the jacket features a durable water repellent finish to keep it looking fabulous for longer and an inner draw cord ensures a great fit. Zip front and popper fasteners help to keep you warm.

Pockets are zip fastened for practicality and inside there is a sumptuous floral lining for a touch of glamour.

Available in two rich colours, claret and chocolate, to warm up the chilliest days.

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Welcome to Champion Riding Collection Champion are proud to present our first ever clothing range.

The collection is a result of a rigorous design and development process and features apparel and accessories that combine performance fabrics with fit and features that are especially tailored for riders. Technical fabrics and inspired branding have been combined with streamlined silhouettes for clothing that will take you anywhere and everywhere.

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March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

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First Aid

First Aid and Alternative Therapy Whether you’re a retailer stocking cool packs, wound gel and bandages or a manufacturer producing high tech massage rugs and light therapy products, it is clear that the first aid market is a staple seller and alternative therapies are growing in popularity. Equestrian Business Monthly looks at both first aid and alternative therapy to provide advice on the market.

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etailers should encourage horse owners to have at least two first aid kits – one for the yard and one for travelling.

It is good practice to use a ‘one in, one out’ system, for instance as soon as one item is used it is immediately replaced.

First aid can only be administered if the person has the right knowledge. Clearly the retailer can only help so far and the first port of call is always the vet, however, for minor ailments a good knowledge of the products you sell and what they are suitable to treat is important. Make the most of product training and literature offered by manufacturers and if possible test the products out yourself so you can advise customers through experience.

Essential items to stock Mercury or digital thermometer A thermometer will quickly tell an owner if their horse has an elevated temperature. Modern digital versions are generally preferable to mercury based ones and some models save the last temperature taken. Most take temperature in 60 seconds and beep when peak temperature is reached. A string and clip feature will also help prevent your customers from losing their thermometers. Petroleum jelly is useful for lubrication of the thermometer Antiseptic wound cleaner These include povidone-iodine (pevidine) and chlorhexidine (Hibiscrub). Important staple products, these are always in demand for washing skin infections, cuts and punctures.

Scissors Scissors are essential for every first aid kit, whether for horses,

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but should be sprayed from the recommended distance. There is a wide range available to stock, from all natural, herbal formulas, to medicinal applications.

Salts Epsom salts are great for drawing out infection and salt water is often used to wash out cuts and scrapes.

Leg wraps Leg wraps are always handy in emergencies. They should be clean and ready; recommend owners have a separate set to those they may use for general everyday situations, such as exercise or travel.

First aid kits must be kept organised

humans or any other animal. If you decide to stock them for the first aid kit they must have round ends and must be sharp.

Veterinary poultice and gamgee Veterinary poultice and dressing can be used hot to increase the blood supply to damaged tissues, drawing out infection or ingrained dirt and encouraging healing.

Used cold, it will help to reduce swelling and pain following bruising or a strain and it can also be used dry on a clean open wound.

Veterinary gamgee provides a low adherent wound interface, protection, insulation and absorbency. It can be used as a primary wound dressing or applied over a dressing prior to bandaging to prevent pressure points. Every horse owner should have one or both in their first aid kit.

Self sticking bandages A truly brilliant invention, self

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

sticking bandages have many uses and in a first aid situation can be used to keep a wound dressing in place or help support leg wraps.

There are many different brands available leaving you with the simple task of choosing one or two to retail.

Cotton wool These are best stocked in large rolls and are useful for cleaning wounds, mopping up and dabbing on powders. Advise owners not to use dry cotton wool directly on a wound or for padding underneath a bandage as it will stick to the wound, making it hard to remove.

Antiseptic To keep wounds clean and to prevent any new infection from entering, a cream, ointment or powder with antiseptic properties is necessary. Ointments have some water resistant properties but are less easily absorbed than creams and powders are only absorbed by broken skin. Aerosols are often coloured to help with targeting

Topical eye ointment A non-steroid eye ointment comes in handy when a horse injures his eyes and a vet is not immediately available.

Boxing clever All of these items are important, and a ‘one in one out’ system has already been suggested, but one of the best ways for owners to do this is to keep the first aid kits organised. Although you obviously need to sell all the equipment separately for customers to top up existing kits, make sure you have some ready made kits with everything required. Boxes or bags that close properly and can be hung on a hook can help to keep products clean when on a yard, and each kit should contain a full list of items within, so that customers can easily see what should be present and what is missing. It is all too easy to forget to check the first aid kit, then when an emergency arises the critical equipment is missing.

Encourage customers to check first aid kits regularly, particularly those for communal use, for

First Aid instance yards and riding schools.

When stocking ready made kits, why not include a few kits for humans and perhaps pets such as dogs. Sell them as a set and then customers can be prepared for almost any stable yard emergency.

Alternative therapies The range of alternative therapies available in the equestrian market is growing rapidly, with products embracing lasers, magnets, heat, cold, and massage on the rise.

For retailers, you may be able to cash in on this, becoming trade partners and providing demo products for customers to try, or even just stocking leaflets and information for customers to find out more. Many of the items are large and high value, meaning often the customer goes direct to the manufacturer and as such a very knowledgeable and mobile sales team is invaluable. Tamzin Long from FMBs says: “Our sales agents go to visit yards and riders as requested. We do a whole range of different therapy products and yard equipment as well so our sales team demonstrate the

products that the customers want to see, mainly for us the ActivoMed products. It’s all about informing the customer about the products available and the benefits they bring.” With a high outlay on items such as this, it makes sense to offer incentives to buy such as hire purchase or finance plans.

“This makes the products more accessible for everybody,” says Tamzin. “We do a whole range of different products to allow anybody to use them.”

The Activo-Med products provide a range of different ways for owners to combine therapy, mixing massage, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy and light pulse therapy in a combination of ways in rugs, pads, girths, leg wraps and more – so the key is offer a range of products to treat the invariably complex muscular conditions in horses.

For those looking to offer alternative therapies in store, Equlibrium Products provides an affordable, effective and easy to use magnetic and massage therapy systems suitable for all horse owners. The company offers

A digital thermometer is a must for any first aid kit

Vital BETAsigns by numbers All horse owners should be able to check for vital signs and should know what is normal for their horse in order to spot early on when something is wrong.

Temperature The average temperature for a horse should be 36.5 to 38.5°C The only safe and accurate way of taking the horse’s temperature is by the rectum.

Take care to stand to one side as some horses resent this, especially raising the tail, and may kick. Ensure the thermometer is held in place long enough to get an accurate reading – a safe, digital thermometer is best.

Pulse and respiration The average pulse at rest is 24 to 34 beats per minute.

Respiration is 10 to 20 breaths per minute.

To listen to the heart you need to stand on the left side and use a stethoscope.

This not only gives you a heart rate pulse in Beats Per Minute (BPM) but also other information about cardiac function.

An alternative method of taking the horse’s pulse is by digital palpation of one of the facial vessels – this one can be felt crossing under the jaw bone. Make sure you don’t press too hard or you will occlude the blood vessel and be unable to feel a pulse.

Another site for taking the horse’s pulse is on the face behind the eye.

Check respiration by watching the horse’s flanks to count the breaths.

Circulation Lifting the lips to look at the colour of the gums. The horse’s gums should be a nice salmon pink – not too pale which may indicate poor circulation or too red (congested) which may indicate severe infection or inflammation.

The membranes of the eyes (conjunctivae) can also be used to check for the colour.

This may be slightly more difficult to checking the gums as horses have very strong eyelid muscles. Remember, if a horse has an eye inflammation it could give you a false picture.

Digital palpation is one way of taking the pulse

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11

First Aid

Massage and magnets BETA by numbers Equilibrium Products explains the uses for massage and magnetic therapy.

Massage therapy Many professional therapists regularly treating horses now recommend the use of massage equipment at home between visits to keep the horse supple. Massage therapy can be particularly effective treating veteran horses or those rehabilitating from injury.

Tension is one of the most common reasons for poor performance in all disciplines, and massage helps by increasing relaxation and improving flexibility.

Massage helps to reduce stiffness caused by chronic injury, chronic conditions or strenuous work by improving the blood supply to the muscles. It also promotes relaxation by reducing heart rate throughout the massage and also builds and strengthens the bond of trust between horse and rider.

Magnetic therapy Magnetic Therapy has been proven to have both positive effects in humans

and animals in treating scar tissue, inflammation, reducing swelling, stiffness, muscle cramps and arthritis, all afflictions which are commonly experienced by veteran horses and ponies.

The Equilibrium Therapy range uses VITAflex magnets, which have been shown to be twice as effective as standard Neodymium magnets.

Should I combine magnetic and massage therapies?

Where there is a specific back injury or chronic problem, we recommend that professional advice is first sought from a vet and all tack, especially the saddle, is checked by a qualified fitter. An initial treatment regime can incorporate the Equilibrium magnetic pad. Once inflammation is reduced, a combined therapy regime is very useful as a maintenance programme. The magnetic back pad should be used every night, and the massage pad once during the day.

PRODUCT

Magnetic back pad

Equilibrium Products’ Magnetic Back Pad uses strong, circular, permanent magnetic fields of alternating pole sequences. The pad is flat, slim and flexible to avoid pressure sores and comes with four powerful magnetic strips.

VITAflex magnets possess strong, circular and permanent magnetic fields of alternating pole sequences that increase electric charge in the cell’s membrane, thereby improving the cell’s ability to regenerate.

www.equilibriumproducts.com PRODUCT

Total care

Equimins’ Total Care Wound Gel is a first aid kit essential, helping to prevent infection and hasten healthy skin rejuvenation.

The gel contains silver ions that act as a powerful antimicrobial agent, MSM, aloe vera, tea tree oil, chamomile oil, Echinacea herbal extract, elderberry herbal extract and allantoin. In addition to aiding wound healing, it also helps to keep the wound hydrated.

Total Care Wound Gel is supplied in a 100ml airless dispenser for easy application.

www.equimins.com PRODUCT

Seal to Heal

Equilibrium Therapy products in action

retailer support in the form of product trainers that will visit the store to train staff, a technical manual, catalogues and leaflets, posters and point of sale and a quick ordering system through Battle Hayward and Bower.

Products available to stock include the massage pad, massage mitt, magnetic back pad and magnetic chaps, all small and simple to stock to offer customers a range of therapy options.

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Hot and cold therapy products are more ‘old school’, with cold compresses and hot tubbing being traditional treatments used for decades. However, now there are many new products embracing modern technology to apply heat or cold in more precise and safer ways. Gel packs, leg wraps and boots offer simple ways to apply heat and cold, which are still proven ways to treat a range of conditions. ■

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Seal to Heal is a transparent and flexible wound dressing for horses that are often in muddy conditions which blocks the bacteria found in mud while protecting against dirt, flies and other insects. Ideal for the summer months to reduce the risk of infection to any cuts and abrasions. Seals the epidermis to maintain the levels of moisture. Easy to use in an emergency and ideal for areas where more conventional dressings are difficult to apply. Forms a protective layer in 60 seconds.

www.flyaway.ltd.uk

Equipment the Horse COMPANY for PROFILE

A colourful

CAREER Equestrian Business Monthly uncovers the story behind Veterinary Thermal Imaging Ltd (VTI).

I

dentifying a new niche product or service is the Holy Grail of marketing for a lot of companies, but successfully bringing that idea to life does come with its fair share of blood, sweat and tears.

Helen Morrell stumbled upon thermal imaging as a tool for equine diagnostics whilst researching as a post graduate student. “At the time I was applying for a heavily oversubscribed MSc course, and knew my knowledge of cutting edge veterinary science had to be

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top-notch to impress at interview.

Having read about thermal imaging in use in the States I contacted the very vets who had penned many of the papers I had read, to find out more. At that point I became the first British delegate to be accepted onto a training course at the University of Florida’s Veterinary School. That was over four years ago.

Building the business “Feeling fired-up and enthused I brought thermal imaging back to

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

the UK, and launched Veterinary Thermal Imaging Ltd (VTI), to provide an outsourced service to vets and paraprofessionals”. It wasn’t all plain sailing. Launching new services requires a huge amount of time to be devoted to education, and explanation of the benefits of thermal imaging.

Initially, Helen found animal owners far easier to reach than their vets, so had to adapt the company’s marketing strategy to create owner advocates who would explain thermal imaging to their chosen professionals

on her behalf. “PR and social media accounts were fantastic for engaging with this audience and, coupled with articles within the professional press, formed a two-pronged attack. As with anything new, there were skeptics, and tenacity became my middle name, shortly joined by thickskin. Building the business took long hours, certainly twelve-hour days, seven days a week for the first twelve months. I was working more on the business than within it, but all that changed after the first year when I was approached

COMPANY PROFILE by other people interested in offering thermal imaging services.”

Extending the reach With the credit crunch at that time limiting funds available to small and start-up businesses, Helen had to think more creatively, and taking another idea popular in the USA decided that a franchised route would be the best way to expand nationally. “With enquiries and demand for services arriving from across the four corners of the UK each week, it became clear that I needed a larger team. I was also adamant that I wanted to be able to control the quality of the work that anyone operating under my banner produced, and provide the ongoing support that anyone working in this field needs.

Employing thermographers would have been the ideal solution, but with funds for expansion limited, franchising the operation became the next best approach.

Franchising allowed me to bring in excellent people, at relatively low outlay on their behalf, certainly a lot less than starting the business myself had cost. My training received independent recognition for its excellence and the team steadily grew with few initial teething problems.”

Balancing skills VTI is continuing to grow, and the team is heading into the busiest months for appointment revenue that they’ve had to-date.

All VTI thermographers enjoy the ability to work flexible hours, and balance work around life and other commitments. The role also requires lots of business development work locally too.

“Finding franchisees with the right balance of veterinary and equine knowledge, and business

development and management experience has been the hardest part of the journey so far, and my steepest learning curve.”

Today, Helen’s role revolves around training, coaching and team support, rather than imaging in the field. Business strategy remains a constantly evolving piece of work as VTI expands into new parts of the UK, new opportunities present themselves and demand for thermal imaging increases exponentially.

“Many friends and advisors voiced concern at my starting a business during one of the deepest recessions known. But, having survived the downturn and the upturn, VTI is in a great place for expansion. I think there is

something to be said for bucking the trend, and doing the exact opposite of everyone else.”

You can find out more at www. veterinary-thermal-imaging.com

Would you like to tell us about your business? Have you made the most of a niche market, uncovered unknown talents or risked it all for a business that is now a success? Let us know.

Email editorial@ebmonthly.co.uk to tell us your story.

March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

15

Spring feeding

Laminitis AND WEIGHT ISSUES Laminitis is still a common problem for the UK’s horses and ponies so as spring approaches Equestrian Business Monthly presents a multi-faceted approach to helping your customers, alongside new research that backs up current advice and provides some fresh thinking too.

A

s we go to press, much of the UK is still underwater and for those not suffering directly with flooding, waterlogged ground is still restricting turnout and creating mud baths every where. However, soon the sun will come out and the land will dry up, resulting in the flush of spring grass that brings with it the risk of unwanted weight gain and laminitis.

As always, the advice for any customers worried about their horses is to consult a vet – if their horse is exhibiting lameness in one or more legs, a stilted gait and reluctance to move, a bounding digital pulse in the fetlock, heat in the hoof or the typical leaning stance, it is a veterinary emergency. However, retailers may well be faced with customers wanting products to help with horses already diagnosed and in recovery, or for ways to prevent it occurring in the first place.

Reduced calorie feeding Laminitis is not just a feeding issue and can be linked to many different metabolic conditions.

However, you can provide a wide range of products to help owners provide a healthy lifestyle to prevent laminitis or aid in recovery. Diet-wise, there are a variety of high fibre feeds approved by the Laminitis Trust that provide low sugar options for those that need a bucket feed but can’t handle extra sugar. Also, promote low sugar forages and chaffs. Some horses may still be on restricted turnout while the grass is particularly high in fructans so a high fibre diet will be important here but hay is not necessarily a straight forward feed, with forage varying in quality and importantly containing widely varying levels

16

point display of weigh tapes, low calorie, low sugar feeds and advice on body condition scoring may help. Many of the feed companies provide good leaflets and posters on the subject of laminitis so be sure to offer a selection to customers. Martin Bielby, national sales representative for British Horse Feeds says: “As a retailer, when you stock one of our products you also receive ongoing support from an experienced sales force, a top class nutritionist and a dedicated company with extensive marketing in place.” Make the most of the experience on offer to provide the best service possible to your customers.

A weigh tape is important to ensure the horse does not become overweight and at risk from laminitis. Photo courtesy of Allen & Page

of soluble carbohydrates. Liz Bulbrook BSc (Hons), director of nutrition at Baileys Horse Feeds explains that this season’s forage is of much better nutritional quality than that of the previous two winters so is providing more calories and is, on the whole, more digestible. “This coupled with the milder temperatures and the fact that, where it is not under water, the grass has continued to grow for much of the winter, means that many horses will be maintaining or even gaining condition this winter. Owners of good-doers and the laminitis-prone should therefore be encouraged to soak all forage for 3 to 12 hours to ‘wash out’ a proportion of soluble carbohydrate calories, while leaving the valuable fibre element.

The best accompaniment to this ‘reduced calorie’ forage is a balancer which will provide those nutrients found lacking in forage and, when fed at recommended levels, helps ensure the horse

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

receives a fully balanced diet.”

If the horse is struggling with forage due to age and poor teeth, or perhaps customers are struggling to source good quality forage, then hay replacers may play an important role in the horse’s diet. Also, don’t forget items like small holed haynets and grazing muzzles, which can restrict the intake of both forage and grass.

Customers may be looking for other ways to allow turnout but restrict grazing so electric fencing is a good stock item. This allows customers to strip graze accordingly and provides a more flexible option to allow horses time out in the paddock but with less risk of developing laminitis.

The bigger picture It’s not just what the horse consumes at this time of year; for those already suffering with

Education Although laminitis is not always caused by a horse or pony being over weight, excessive weight is a major risk factor so a focal

Soak all forage for 3 to 12 hours to ‘wash out’ a proportion of soluble carbohydrate calories

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March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

17

Spring feeding

The latest on laminitis Dee Pollard, a PhD student at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket, Suffolk provides new information on laminitis.

What can epidemiology tell us about laminitis in Great Britain?

Epidemiological studies (investigating how often diseases occur and why) can help forge a better understanding of laminitis.

A recently published review found that frequency estimates of laminitis in GB have ranged from 0.5% to 23.5%, depending on the population studied.

In GB, two recent studies have been conducted regarding potential risk factors. The first study conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in 2010 considered the occurrence of laminitis in a population of rescue animals on an East Anglian Farm (Study 1). More recently in 2013, a collaborative study between Animal Health Trust (AHT) and the RVC identified potential risk factors for veterinary-diagnosed equine laminitis by collecting owner-volunteered information (Study 2).

The non-modifiable risk factors identified were: ■ Season – Laminitis occurs throughout the year with regional and seasonal differences. Study 1 found increasing hours of sunshine corresponded with an increased frequency of laminitis, with most cases occurring in May. Study 2 found that animals were more at risk of getting laminitis in summer and winter compared to spring. This last finding especially emphasises that owners should remain vigilant all year.

■ Sex –Study 1 found that mares were more likely to develop laminitis than geldings, possibly due to hormonal influences absent in castrated males.

■ Height – Study 2 found that taller animals were less likely to develop laminitis than smaller animals.

Several modifiable risk factors were identified in Study 2, and as such have potential preventative strategies. Two novel findings were that the feeding of supplements and transportation appeared to reduce the risk of laminitis – and required further investigation prior to the recommendation of management strategies.

The following factors all had an association with an increased risk of laminitis: ■ Rapid weight gain – Evaluate your animal’s weight regularly and ensure they aren’t taking in more calories than needed, dependant on the time of year and their level of exercise.

Especially retired animals/those in light work – consider if they need hard feed or if a balanced forage ration is adequate.

Consider the ingredients and amounts of sugar and starch in any supplementary feed – try to reduce these as much as possible. Soaking hay has been shown to reduce amounts of water soluble carbohydrates (WSC), although this greatly depends on hay type and amount of soaking time. Keep a spreadsheet and take regular photos to help you notice differences in weight!

■ New access to grass –Make changes to diet gradually, even if only changing hay or pasture. Research suggest that ponies are able to consume almost half of their daily dry matter intake in just a few hours when grazing freely, so grazing for only part of the day may be ineffective! To restrict amounts of grass eaten, try a grazing muzzle or turn out in

Stock electric fence componants so customers can strip graze their horses

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Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

a dirt paddock with rationed forage rather than confining to a stable – you still want to encourage movement!

■ Box rest – This could be due to reduced movement and stress brought on by a change in routine or original reason for box rest (injury/illness).

■ Lameness or soreness after shoeing/trimming – Work with your farrier/trimmer to develop a regular hoof care routine for your animal.

■ Existing endocrinopathic disease (such as PPID or EMS) - If you suspect a metabolic or endocrine problem, discuss available testing with your vet.

Medication can help to control these diseases and thereby reduce the risk of laminitis.

■ Increasing time since last worming – Further research will help decipher whether increasing worm burden or an effect of the drugs themselves may be associated with laminitis, and may allow worming programmes to reduce laminitis risk.

■ Previous history of laminitis – Consider the above guidelines to prevent laminitis occurring, as it is known to recur in previously affected animals.

The AHT and RVC, with funding from World Horse Welfare, are conducting a study that will estimate the owner-reported frequency of laminitis in GB as well as further exploring the risk factors listed above.

The study is looking to recruit horse and pony owners throughout the country via a dedicated website. Owners will be asked to complete a baseline questionnaire providing general information about their animal, their health and medical history and their current management practices.

A monthly online questionnaire will record if any of the baseline information changes over time. In order to discover associations with laminitis it is vital that this study gathers information not only on horses/ ponies that have a history of laminitis, but also those that have never had laminitis and hopefully never will! The website is set to go live in the middle of this year. For more information about the study or to register your interest, please contact Dee Pollard at dpollard@aht.org.uk or 01638 751000 (Ext: 1506)

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the condition there are many products that can aid recovery – even if it is just to make life a little more comfortable for the stricken

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horse. Lisa Cooper from Nedz says: “In some cases during acute laminitis the equine will require a period of box rest and if an enforced rest phase is necessary it is vital that the environment is as ‘equine friendly’ and as suitable as possible to meet the patient’s needs.

“Alongside providing fresh water and ample forage, one of the most important factors to consider for the box-resting equine is the bedding chosen. It is essential for the laminitis prone equine to be stabled on good quality, deep and supportive bedding in order to keep painful feet away from uncomfortable, hard surfaces and alleviate any pressure by providing cushioning support.”

There are also a variety of supplements available to stock that provide nutritional support to those recovering from laminitis, or to prevent the condition occurring by supporting digestion, although these must be used alongside all the other considerations for a suitable diet, grazing access, weight and exercise. ■

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Spring feeding PRODUCT

Ease the discomfort

PRODUCT

Laminitis friendly fibre feeds

New Absorbine Hooflex Magic Cushion hoof packing is an efficient way to cool and cushion bruised soles and sore feet and brings comfort for horses and ponies suffering from the effects of laminitis. Hooflex Magic Cushion is particularly useful and effective for laminitis sufferers as it can be used on shod and barefoot horses.

Its sticky, spongy texture enables it to mould perfectly to the horse’s sole. One application of Magic Cushion lasts up to 48 hours.

For overweight horses and ponies, or those prone to laminitis, high fibre, low starch, low sugar, laminitisfriendly feeds such as Fast Fibre and ‘L’ Mix are ideal.

Allen & Page’s Fast Fibre is a barley and molasses free, ‘quick soak’ feed that is perfectly suited for the good doer and contains Ceregest GLC2, a unique prebiotic for Gut Loving Care.

You can also point your customers to Allen & Page’s website for excellent advice for owners worried about laminitis.

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PRODUCT

Calorie, not nutrient, control

PRODUCT

Nutritional support

After a milder winter and more nutritious forage, many equines will be going in to the spring carrying a little extra condition.

Baileys Lo-Cal balancer can help ensure that weight control is not at the expense of essential nutrients by providing them without the associated calories of a mix, cube or fortified chaff.

Fed by the mug-full, alongside forage, Lo-Cal balancer allows the horse owner to provide a fully balanced diet by giving the recommended daily amount alongside low calorie Baileys Light Chaff.

Mollichaff HoofKind is a complete, high fibre feed providing nutritional support to horses and ponies prone to laminitis. It is low in starch and sugar and is cereal-free.

It is made from a blend of oat straw, dried alfalfa and fibre pellets with a light dressing of soya oil with added vitamins and minerals, trace elements, natural plant-based antioxidants and therapeutic levels of biotin.

It provides a low level but high quality protein and restricted calories to provide limited, controlled energy.

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PRODUCT

Disinfect and protect

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Happy hooves

Farrier’s Finish topical hoof liquid combats the ‘hoof eating’ bacterial and fungal invasions which cause white line disease, thrush, and poor hoof quality.

The tamed iodine antimicrobial in Farrier’s Finish is delivered into the hoof capsule by a highly penetrating base of tea tree oil. The unique blend of ingredients including natural waxes and resins provide hoof protection for horses standing in muddy paddocks or rain-sodden fields while still allowing oxygen to pass into the hoof capsule.

Spillers Happy Hoof is a specially blended, low calorie, shortchop forage. Approved by The Laminitis Trust, it can be used as a complete feed or as a replacement for hay and is specifically designed to extend eating time.

Spillers High Fibre Cubes are low in starch and high in fibre, with high levels of vitamins and minerals, making them a safe choice for horses and ponies prone to laminitis.

They can also be soaked to form a mash for veterans that can’t manage long fibres.

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Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Laminitis. Move forward.

Pasture and excess cereal starch can cause laminitis.

Feed low sugar, low starch, high fibre Happy Hoof®.

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March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

21

Talking Point

Equestrianism laterally!

Pat Crawford discusses the role of equine degrees in the industry and provides an interesting insight into the minds of students considering their future careers.

V

arious sections of the equestrian media have run stories about the usefulness, or otherwise, of equine-related degrees and whether or not a degree is the ‘best’ qualification for those wishing to enter the industry. Some commentators suggest that every graduate expects to work in some type of equestrian yard – a training establishment, riding school or livery yard - when a BHS or similar qualification could often be more suitable. Surely it all depends on what is included in the degree programme? And the quality of the programme is also a factor. In any event, not every graduate wants to use their degree in a job working directly with horses.

The bigger picture The equestrian industry is sometimes perceived as large whereas in reality, including all the many support services, it is actually very small, thus career progression can be difficult. Hadlow College in Kent encourages students to apply lateral thinking from day one. In fact, applicants are told that simply loving horses is not a sufficiently good reason to opt for a degree programme! This undoubtedly comes as a shock to some applicants who really haven’t thought beyond an idealised vision of being able to spend every moment of their working day with horses, no matter in what capacity!

First year undergraduates at Hadlow are encouraged to look at the equestrian industry broadly and to go on doing so. They are asked to take a realistic look at the bigger picture and to evaluate all the possible job options, taking into account the advantages and the disadvantages. Nothing in life is

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absolutely perfect and so it is with jobs. But what is a serious handicap for one individual might be a minor snag, or of no consequence, for another. It is suggested that students give thought to the broader aspects of jobs and time is spent evaluating aspects they would find ‘difficult’ (working unsocial or very long hours; travelling away from home regularly; little opportunity for career advancement; working in isolation from colleagues; difficult to fit competing into a tight work schedule – and so on.)

There is no doubt that this approach works and students are encouraged to select an area of the equestrian industry they are likely to find fulfilling. Students are also asked to consider their natural aptitudes and talents and think about how best they might be relevant to career options. This helps to reduce the possibility of becoming a ‘square peg in a round hole’. In turn, this means there is less likelihood of employers putting time and effort into additional training and support only to find the employee is not happy in the job role. (One of the grouses about the equestrian industry relates to the fact that, all too often, CPD – continual professional development – is ignored. There is some truth in this criticism but, at the same time, some employers would argue there is little point in investing time and money in an employee who is likely to move on – and may even leave the equestrian industry completely.)

Clear thinking At a recent round table discussion a group of Hadlow third year students studying for a BSc (Hons) in Equine Management demonstrated the clarity with which they are

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

considering their futures.

Katie Bradbury intends to apply for a graduate trainee position with, for example, the British Horseracing Authority or Allianz Insurance (Petplan). Katie already has experience working in a livery yard and an equestrian centre and knows that she especially enjoys customerfacing roles. She thinks the strong business and events management part of her degree programme will prove to be useful in a variety of roles.

At the moment Amy Nicholls is uncertain whether to opt for an MSc equine event management programme or to continue building her portfolio. She is another student who is finding the event management experience at Hadlow very helpful.

Melanie Nahum says there is more to equestrianism than involvement in dressage, show jumping and eventing! Her special interest is

“ It is suggested that students give thought to the broader aspects of jobs” learning about the true nature of the horse and she is considering moving onto a programme leading to an MSc in equine behaviour and welfare. Eventually she would like to run an equine-friendly yard where horses live out in herds in a natural environment – no horse walkers or similar equipment. She believes the results would be horses happy in body and mind. Melanie’s own Selle Francais is managed as far as possible according to these ideals and she is certain there are

many like-minded owners who share her convictions. Before Hadlow Melanie obtained a BA in Drama and Italian - now she is on her way to fulfilling a long-time dream of working with horses and proving they afford real career options. She is fortunate to have already some financial backing for her venture.

Aiming to work for one of the large equine feed processors in a consultant-type role, Victoria Locking originally intended reading for a degree in biology but changed her mind and opted for a BSc in equine management. Throughout her degree programme Victoria has developed good communication skills which would be of benefit in a role that involves advising people with varying levels of knowledge.

Victoria is also interested in equineassisted personal development on which her dissertation is based and she intends carrying on her research in this field.

The current holder of the LyndonDykes Equine Fellowship involving research into saddle fitting for ponies, Kayley Lanston says that, before making any decisions regarding her future career, she wants to gain greater insight into various parts of the equestrian industry she currently knows least about. One thing of which she is certain, whichever route she finally selects, Kayley is determined to obtain further qualifications to aid her career progression.

Malin Schild chose to read for a degree in equine management as a means of getting back into equestrianism. She has found that people who were at first sceptical about her chosen route have become far more interested during her three years at Hadlow.

Malin’s long-term ambition is to

Talking Point

open a boutique hotel that offers riding holidays. She wants to add to her experience by gaining work in related areas – possibly as a concierge at one of the specialist riding clubs that offer bespoke services to members seeking very ‘special’ or ‘different’ equestrian experiences. Malin has selected an unusual route but her enthusiasm, determination and the fact that she is prepared to work very hard should help her to realise her goal.

Planning to take a year out and spend some of the time in Baltimore, USA in order to broaden her knowledge and experience, Kortnie French would eventually like to set up an equine rehabilitation centre for race and sports horses. Kortnie has a growing interest in media and communications which has resulted in a volunteer role in community radio and she has not closed the door on a career in equestrianrelated media. In the meantime, after 16 years in education, she is very much looking forward to the year out.

After working for a couple of years in the Hadlow College team that provides the arena party at the Kent county show, Celia Stone would like to make a career in either fence or course design for show jumping or eventing. ‘A’ level subjects included

art and Celia also very much enjoys design. As a result of working in the arena party, she has met – and had the opportunity to get to know – two respected course designers. She hopes that they will be prepared to give her work experience to enable her to develop existing skills.

Describing herself as ‘a city kid’, Caroline (Caz), now aged 53, began her degree programme in 2009 knowing nothing about horses other than the fact that she loved them.

Her experience, she says ‘related to watching Bonanza on television!’ A qualified nurse and holding a BSc (Hons) Nurse Practitioner, Caz is interested in investigating the role of human/equine relationships with a view to offering specialised bereavement help in cases of equine deaths and human grief. Currently working for the NHS, Caz is also a Blue Cross volunteer helping with the Pet Bereavement Support Service. Once she has graduated, Caz will also volunteer to undertake work for CRUSE, the service which offers one-to-one support and counselling for those who are affected by the death of someone close to them Rebecca Thick intends using her particular interest in Arabian horses to develop specialist services.

Recognising that Arabians are often considered ‘difficult’, she is

well aware that their ‘flightiness’ is directly related to their exceptional intelligence and the speed at which they react. Rebecca intend to gain more experience in this specialist sector with the intention of going on to train Arabians for the showing and endurance fields.

Believing that work in a riding school should involve teaching clients about welfare and care as well as riding, Teresa Ando intends to look for a full-time position at a well-run riding school.

“ No-one is contemplating involvement in the industry as a shortterm project” Isobel Sharp recognises that she wishes to focus on the academic rather than the practical side of the equestrian industry and she is especially interested in the field of nutrition. It is also important, she says, ‘to create financial security’ and she would like to have a job where she can climb the ladder and forge a lifelong career.

China Morgan would like to work in the digital publishing industry and hopes, after graduation, she might be offered an internship where

she can build experience. Further studying might include a course at the London School of Publishing with a view to working full-time in equestrian-related media.

Isobel Alton wants to offer full livery services. Alongside studying for her degree, ‘Issy’ has been assisting in livery yards and riding schools, something, she says, has enabled her to build additional skills.

Nobody could say these motivated, ambitious yet realistic students aren’t giving careful thought to career direction. They all value their degree but not one of them believes it fully equips them for every job in the equestrian industry! No-one is contemplating involvement in the industry as a short-term project.

Instead, they are prepared to go on developing their skills in every way possible.

It would be interesting to interview them again a year after graduation to see how far they have succeeded.

If they have changed direction? If they still feel the equestrian industry is the right one for them? If their job is satisfying? It would also be interesting to obtain the comments of their employers, tutors and clients. ■

March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

23

Trade Fair Review

Spoga horse spring: New impulses create growth The first equestrian trade show of 2014 indicated a healthy industry with 4,000 trade visitors from 51 countries attending Spoga horse spring in Cologne on February 2-4.

“Spoga horse has brought a fresh wind and new impulses with vibrant new formats. It remains to be the number one order platform,” stated Katharina C. Hamma, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse GmbH. In terms of the attendance figures, Spoga horse recorded an excellent growth rate of 7.5 percent. The heightened focus on a targeted visitor management led to an increased flow of visitors from Germany and abroad. The majority of the trade visitors came from European countries, further expanding the event’s international appeal.

The visitor survey proves that spoga horse not only convinces in terms of quantity, but also in terms of quality: 77 percent of the visitors have a decisive or codecisive influence on buying and procurement decisions. Almost 80 percent of the people interviewed were satisfied overall as far as achieving the goals of their visit were concerned. The positive outcome of the visitor survey was also confirmed by the exhibitors: suppliers reported that they had held intensive discussions with well-informed and top-class industry professionals.

Tilman Meyer zu Erpen, Vice President of the German Association of the Sporting Goods Industry (BSI), was also satisfied with the results of Spoga horse spring: “The industry had been relying on the accustomed

positive effect of the spring trade fair Spoga horse, which in its capacity as a forum for novelties is the most important European industry meeting point in the year. The trade fair has proven once again that it plays a very important role in its function as an order platform. Visiting the show is a MUST for every equestrian sport retailer, who wants to secure his position on the market with the new trends early on.”

A colourful array of novelties This year the events at Spoga horse celebrated numerous premieres, which impressed visitors: in a live show trade visitors were able to study the fashion trends of the coming season. Twice a day, models presented the outfits of 15 strong brands to a full house on the Spoga horse fashion walk. The experts of the Spoga horse academy communication platform also enjoyed a full house.

Renowned industry professionals held lectures on all three days of the fair.

Dealer Award 2014 In collaboration with Koelnmesse, the information and industry service REITSPORT-MARKT

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Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Fashionable details such as colour contrasted zips and seams, logo embroideries, Swarovski stones or material mixes are a must for the coming season. In terms of colours, the manufacturers are opting for several colour themes: from earthy shades such as truffle, Burgundy, chocolate brown or emerald green, through to bright vibrant colours such as raspberry, damson, cerise and turquoise. The classic colour blue is still present in a range of different shades. In addition to functionality, wellness aspects also play a role. Especially for the female riders there are jodhpurs made out of bioactive material that reduce the formation of cellulite. Horse blankets with integrated acupressure mats or massage blankets offer the horse relaxation and recuperation. ■

presented the award for Germany’s ‘Best Equestrian Sports Dealer’ for the seventh time. Reitsport Voss from KampLintfort claimed the award in the supreme discipline. In the category ‘Shop Construction’, the jury awarded the prize to Ahrens Reitsport from Tangstedt.

Reitsport Galoppwechsel from Peiting won the distinction for the ‘Best Small Shop under 200 square metres’. The jury selected 12 nominees from around 50 applicants in total.

Fashion trends Smart and functional fashion is going to define next winter: for instance with padded thermal riding wear, outdoor riding coats and Parkas and ultra-light, quilted down jackets. As far as equestrian fashion is concerned, the emphasis not only lies on functionality, the items also have to look good.

Spoga horse spring 2014 in figures 173 companies (spring 2013: 197) from 21 (27) countries, 64% (65%) of whom came from abroad, participated in the trade show. These included 59 (66) exhibitors and 3 (3) additionally represented companies from Germany as well as 110 (127) exhibitors and 1 (1) additionally represented company from abroad.* *The visitor, exhibitor and exhibition space figures of this trade fair are determined and certified in accordance with the definitions of the FKM - Society for Voluntary Control of Trade Fair and Exhibition Statistics

The next venue date:

Spoga horse autumn, August 31 to September 2 2014, parallel to ‘spoga+gafa’

• British Trade Association WINNER of Fly Products new for 2014!

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March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

25

Trade Fair Review

BETA International 2014:

Innovation leads the way If BETA International is a barometer for the industry then it looks like the equestrian trade is set fair this year. Equestrian Business monthly looks at the show, the award winners and presents a round up of comments from the stands.

W

ith a new title sponsor in the form of bitting specialists Neue Schule and initial very positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors at the show, this year’s UK equestrian trade fair is being hailed as a success.

BETA International organiser Claire Thomas says: “We opened the doors to the trade fair in the enviable position of having a sellout show. Our exhibitors ranged from large established companies to small start-ups, with everyone hitting the mark in terms of offering quality, inspiration and fantastic service. Our 12-month marketing programme, coupled with our fine reputation, resulted in another great show with plenty of leads and new accounts for all our exhibitors. We are absolutely delighted.”

New products and innovation The winners of the 2014 Innovation Awards were announced during the trade fair and as usual celebrated products that were truly innovative and new to the market during the preceding 12 months. This year attracted a record number of entries, giving the judging panel a challenging task in finding winners in each of the nine categories.

Judges – all experts in their own fields – were vet Beth Pritchard, show producer and rider Katie Jerram, medical doctor and body protector expert Michael Whitlock and retailer Simon Wetherald.

Visitors packed the aisles at a busy BETA International

The 2014 Innovation Awards winners were: FEED & SUPPLEMENTS Winner Company: Trilanco Product: Science Supplements Gut Balancer Judges’ comments: “This product is a credit to the industry. Users can be confident it delivers as it is backed by scientific research and uses protected live yeast – a revolutionary concept. Available

BETA by numbers AS we go to print the figures for BETA International 2014 have yet to be audited

by ABC but they show a healthy audience eager to discover new products, link up with old friends

26

and make new contacts.

5,026 were counted through the doors, 718 were revisits, featuring many discerning industry buyers, from small, independents to larger multinational concerns.

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

The New Products Gallery

in a tub or sachet, the packaging is excellent.”

Highly commended Company: L S Sales (Farnam) Ltd Product: Simplify Fly Inhibitor Supplement Judges’ comments: “An innovative

supplement formulated to break the fly life cycle. This is a clever product which has the potential to revolutionise pest control.”

HORSECARE EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING Winner Company: Carr & Day & Martin

Trade Fair Review Product: Equimist 360, an innovative new technology which is set to revolutionise product application in the horse care world.

Judges’ comments: “This unique spray action quietly delivers the product with minimum effort from the user. An even application is easily achieved and horses which are sensitive to noise will not be upset. A brilliant design!”

Highly commended Company: Equomed Lumark Product: Ion Diodes Magnetic Therapy Judges’ comments: “Utilising the benefits of memory foam, these magnetic and ion therapy boots conform perfectly to any horse’s legs for a comfortable and effective fit. The combo insert pads can be set in any position, for customised usage. Nothing else on the market allows such flexibility.”

PET PRODUCTS Winner Company: Horseware Ireland Product: Sportz-Vibe massage rug for dogs

Judges’ comments: “Another great massage product from Horseware Ireland! This cost-effective and non-invasive treatment will benefit so many dogs. The SportzVibe is also waterproof so can be used as an everyday dog coat too, not just for delivering massage therapy.”

Highly commended Company: Pet Rebellion Product: Boot Mate Judges’ comments: “A very practical product which would be useful for any dog owner. Neatly lining the boot of the car, the Boot Mate is invaluable, especially in wet and muddy weather. Once soiled, it is then easily cleaned in the washing machine.”

RIDER CLOTHING Winner Company: Mobile Warming Product: Ladies Heated Jacket Judges’ comments: “Stylish and lightweight, the jacket provides warmth at the push of a button.

A great product at an affordable price, time spent outdoors in cold weather will be a lot more enjoyable.”

Trilanco had a great show

Horse care products that work!

From Fly protection to Hoof Care, Leovet have a solution for all your customers equine care needs.

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Trade Fair Review Company: Brogini Ltd Product: The Caldo Boot Judges’ comments: “A warm and comfortable pair of insulated boots, ideal for winter hacking.

Hook and loop fastenings make them easy to put on and take off.”

OTHER Winner Company: Horse & Country TV Product: Horse & Country TV Everywhere

On the catwalk

Highly commended Company: EquiSox & JockeySox Product: JockeySox Judges’ comments: “A great idea to enhance performance and reduce fatigue of the lower leg.

The design takes in to account the specific movement of a rider’s foot and lower leg, making them a well thought out and effective product.”

SADDLERY & TACK Winner Company: L S Sales (Farnam) Ltd / Leslie Sutcliffe Product: Stride Free Exercise Saddles Judges’ comments: “A very well-

Innovation Award winner L S Sales (Farnam) Ltd

designed exercise saddle providing enhanced freedom of movement for racehorses. The saddle is not only uniquely functional but also excellent quality and an attractive design” Highly commended Company: Ardall Product: Pro-Fit Studs & Pro-Fit Reamer Bit Judges’ comments: “A unique and innovative concept, we look forward to seeing this product performing in the industry, it has huge potential to simplify stud fitting.”

SAFETY & SECURITY Winner Company: Airowear Product: The Hickstead Body

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Protector Judges’ comments: “A fantastic design which is virtually invisible over a jacket, the Hickstead Body Protector moulds to the body for a comfortable and very safe fit.”

Judges’ comments: “Great equestrian TV at your fingertips, this accessible app/service is great value for money. H&CTV fans everywhere can now enjoy the channel, regardless of their location or set up.”

Highly commended Company: Charles Owen & Co (Bow) Ltd Product: Charles Owen V8

Highly commended Company: Life Data Labs Product: Farrier’s Finish® Hoof Protectant

Judges’ comments: “The V8 has excellent safety features, setting a high standard in protective headwear. The design is attractive and a removable, washable lining is hygienic and practical.”

Judges’ comments: “An extremely useful product which is easy to apply and useful all year round.

For prevention and treatment, this product is a valuable addition to any horse owner’s kit.”

COUNTRY FASHION & FOOTWEAR Winner Company: Olang Footwear Product: Montreal OC Bre

Standing out from the crowd BETA International’s annual Best Stand Awards pledge to seek out those worthy of recognition – those that have gone the extra mile to make sure everything is a perfect as possible.

This year, judges Vicki Campling, of the trade fair’s chosen charity, World Horse Welfare, and Tony Morley, of The Wine and Hamper Company, the competition’s sponsor, toured the halls on a mission to find the two best in show.

The winners of the Best Stand Awards were:

Judges’ comments: “A goodlooking and sturdy pair of multifunctional boots, the clever design allows studs to be added for icy weather in seconds. A must have for winter.”

Highly commended Company: Le Jabot & Stock Company Product: Le Jabot Cross Over Wrap Judges’ comments: “An elegant and timeless piece to compliment any lady’s wardrobe. This wrap is excellent quality and very practical for a variety of occasions.”

RIDER FOOTWEAR & CHAPS Winner Company: Brogini Ltd Product: The Simona Boot Judges’ comments: “Very well made and offering excellent support, kids will love these boots. A fun and unique design in children’s footwear.”

Highly commended

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

BEST LARGE STAND Winner: Charles Owen & Co Judges’ comments: “This stand shouts professionalism – from the engaging staff to high-quality displays. Everybody was very well-presented, had an extremely positive attitude and there were some great-looking products!”

Highly commended: Equilibrium Products Judges’ comments: “This stand made good use of space. Staff were engaging, smartly dressed and showed a high level of product knowledge. They were also keen to pass on helpful, informative

literature and answer questions.”

BEST SMALL STAND Winner: Racesafe Judges’ comments: “Wow! What a striking stand with exceptional use of space! The graphics were extremely effective and displays were eye-catching. Staff engaged with us immediately and really knew their stuff.”

Highly commended: Global Herbs Judges’ comments: “What wonderfully attentive staff members, who were all clearly branded. Products were cleverly presented and all staff participated fully, engaging with visitors and demonstrating good product knowledge.”

Better business The BETA Business Awards were a glittering affair as the trade gathered to celebrate and reward those who had made outstanding contributions to the equestrian industry. These prestigious accolades were presented to winning individuals and companies during the annual BETA Gala Dinner, at the National Motorcycle Museum, near Birmingham, on Sunday February 16.

The winners of the 2014 BETA Business Awards are: HAYGAIN NUTRITIONAL HELPLINE AWARD Winner: TopSpec Equine, Thirsk, North Yorkshire Runner-up: Allen & Page, Thetford, Norfolk EQUINE CAREERS SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR Winner: Anna Rankine, Ariat Europe, Faringdon, Oxfordshire HARRY HALL RETAIL EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR Winner: Jess Papworth, Redpost Equestrian, Totnes, Devon Runner-up: Sophie Sperling, Tower Farm Saddlers, Rugby, Warwickshire JOULES EQUESTRIAN EVENT OF THE YEAR Winner: Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials Runner-up: Equi-Trek Bramham International Horse Trials BLACKS SOLICITORS TRADE SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR Winner: Battle, Hayward & Bower, Lincoln

Trade Fair Review

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March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

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Trade Fair Review

SEIB RETAILER OF THE YEAR Large Retailer Winner: Wadswick Country Store, Wiltshire Runner-up: Countrywide Farmers, Evesham, Worcestershire Medium Retailer Winner: Houghton Equestrian, Heddon-on-the-Wall, Northumberland Runner-up: RB Equestrian, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire Small Retailer Winner: Alan’s Ark, Soham, Cambridgeshire Runner-up: Eskdale Saddlery, Carlisle Mail Order/Internet Retailer Winner: Equestrian Clearance Warehouse, Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire Runner-up: Cavaletti Clothing, Ashurst, Hampshire TSM RIDER AWARD Winner – Amateur Rider: Samantha Osborne Nominator Equilibrium Products said: “Samantha truly deserves to be recognised for her input to the trade. Her influence on the ground has resulted in a direct increase in both sales and brand awareness, providing valuable access into a new discipline for our company.”

Winner – Professional Rider: Gemma Tattersall Nominator Weatherbeeta said: “Gemma has continuously shown support and commitment to us and our rugs. She regularly posts on social media, provides testimonials and offers tips and riding advice to fans.”

UKTI EXPORT AWARD Winner: Horslyx, Wigton, Cumbria The judges felt that the winner was a classic example of a company that had a well-thoughtout and detailed strategy based on research and carefully selected export partners.

BETA LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Winner: Dr Roderick Woods Dr Woods receives the award for work he did with BETA and the body protector sector. For more than 20 years, he made a huge contribution to this literally

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Best Large Stand winner Charles Owen & Co

life-saving part of the equestrian industry.

becoming a show that the global visitor has to consider again.”

Fair feedback

Airowear: “This year’s BETA was one of the best for Airowear.

Winning an innovation award for the Hickstead body protector was very significant for us as this product was designed with the needs of showjumpers in mind. Not only have we earned recognition for the new concept and advanced technology, it firmly demonstrates the drive and commitment behind the Airowear brand under Charles Owen leadership.”

Susan Foster, senior designer at Tayberry: “As a designer, it is always a valuable experience to go to trade shows and hear comments from buyers first hand. A number of people were new to Tayberry, and were really interested in the range, the price and the quality.

It was also lovely to see some of our existing buyers and see what shapes and colours are working well for them, so we can make sure these are considered in our next collection.

“Our new tweed definitely caught everyone’s attention. Because it’s a forward order collection, we are lucky enough to be able to take on board customer comments before we start production, which is great for the retailer too.”

Roy Burek, managing director at Charles Owen: “It was one of the best BETAs that we’ve had for the last five years.

There were a lot of positive views from the buyers and there were a lot more people there than previous years and obviously winning three awards helped. I think the Innovation Award won

by Airowear is showing the fruits of the two companies coming together.

“We have been doing a lot of research in how to move helmet technology forwards and producing new products to reflect what we’re finding in our research, and we were able to showcase these products at BETA. “The other thing that was quite different about this year is that when we were at Spring Spoga a number of foreign companies had heard that BETA were doing something extraordinary and it is

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Jonny Worth, operations manager at Neue Schule: “We are thrilled with the enthusiasm from visitors to the Neue Schule stand. In particular, it was wonderful to see the interest in the new online training tools and product resources that we have developed. The team will be busy for quite a while processing enquiries and orders from customers.”

Leon Fynn, Fynalite: “We had a lot of positive export enquiries.

The people coming to the stand were very direct and knew what they were looking for so we got an

Closing the deal

interesting mix of new customers and people who already buy from us through a distributor and come to have a look at our stock and see what’s new.

“New products for us this year were mainly filling gaps in ranges, such as introducing more aluminum handles in the ranges and increasing the pink ranges.

“BETA went really well, we were really pleased actually. I think the show could be broken down – on the Sunday and Monday it was very busy and then on Tuesday there was more business done between exhibitors. I would say it was definitely busier than last year.”

Christina Carter Jones, horsology: “The show seemed quieter in terms of footfall than in previous years, but the people who visited us were serious buyers and there were a lot of big European retailers and wholesalers visiting the show. On a lighter note, I thought that having Joey from War Horse roaming the halls was a great addition to the show.”

Giles Fielding, managing director at Classic Showjumps: “It is two years since we last attended and I must say that the show seemed busier than it did in 2012 with more exhibitors and higher footfall.

The final day was quieter which we expected and in our opinion it would be sensible to close the show earlier than 6.30pm purely because the halls were quiet from 5pm. Our new Hayholder and Treat Toys were launched at the show and we had a great response to both, we also took some orders from new customers which was pleasing. We managed to bring a lot of people and even some very well-known three-day eventers onto the stand with the showjumping / cross country simulator that we had hired, it was

AWARD WINNING...

THE HICKSTEAD

Safety.... with compliments March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

31

Trade Fair Review a fun way of attracting attention and increasing interest in our products and brand. We already have several new products in mind for an early 2015 launch and our plan is to exhibit again next year based on the fantastic response this year.”

Stephen Murphy, marketing manager at Agrihealth: “ We had a bigger stand than I think we’ve ever had so we got plenty of new customer contacts and all our new products were very well received. We had the full Leovet range on show which we haven’t had in the past, including a new detangler which is coming out in May. We also have our brushless motor range of clippers for Liveryman which were extremely well received. The show was busier than last year but in a different way for us. One of our sales guys commented that we would usually get more orders but this time we got more customer contacts, so people were being a lot more inquisitive rather than just ordering products.”

Melanie Carter, director at Mackenzie & George Ltd: “We had an excellent year, with engaged buyers. Our leads and orders trebled this year, and the quality of the buyers was excellent; from high end boutiques and online retailers all the way up to big chains and very prestigious stores.

Also impressed by the number of overseas buyers too.”

Michelle Girling from Tuffa Footwear: “Since our last BETA, we’ve added a few new lines, and having our full range on the stand gives people the chance to see everything we make. The Broadland and Brecklands were really popular, and we attracted lots of positive comments, but some of our other lines, like the Easy Peasy Pull On Chaps were also a big hit!

“It’s lovely to get feedback on our designs from our retail customers, and also to hear what they need in their shops. BETA International is the perfect place for this.”

Paul Barrett from Mobile Warming: “Being new to the market and this being our first equestrian trade show, I was not quite sure what to expect. Having a new innovative product, you’re never quite sure where it will fit in people’s minds. So I took the bull by the horns and entered it

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Innovation Award winner Mobile Warming

into the Innovation Awards and low and behold I came away with the winning trophy for best rider clothing, does it get any better than that?

“I had already been very busy throughout the show despite being located in a far corner, (it was known as the northern territories amongst our little gathering of exhibitors), and after the awards it proved even more rewarding.

I have done a great number of trade shows in the past in various different markets and this BETA show proved to be outstanding with regards to the serious contacts and inquires that I received over the three days.

“My only criticism, and that’s probably not the right word, is the exhibitor benefits. In other trade shows we get an exhibitor lounge with free wifi, (not the slow NEC wifi) coffee and breakfast facility at reduced NEC costs. It’s only a small thing but it’s exactly those small things that add up to get you feeling wanted so tempting you back.

Thank you for a great show. Now the real work begins.”

Martin Balmer, managing director at Trilanco: “We all thoroughly enjoy BETA International as it gives us the opportunity to see our customers and our suppliers face to face, and talk through how we can help them. Our customers continue to be impressed by our stock availability, efficiency, and they really appreciate the fact that we have our own fleet of vehicles, offering that personal touch that is so easy to miss! It’s great to hear what we’re doing right, but BETA also lets us chat through ideas we have for improvement and development moving forward.

“We’ve started working with Intelligent Retail to assist our

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

retailers who sell across multiplatforms and have a few other announcements up our sleeve in the not too distant future. BETA International gives us a great platform to develop our plans, and also lets everyone catch up for a chat in a relaxed and friendly place.”

Cam Price from Keyflow: “It’s been a another good show for us.

We’ve been consistently busy and have really noticed a positive vibe in the air this year. Retailers are much more aware of our brand and recognise the forward thinking nature of our business.”

Mark Todd, representing Keyflow: “BETA is a great place to showcase Keyflow Feeds, partly because it’s a very clean and visually appealing range that’s not drenched in molasses – so it’s good to open up the bags and let people see it first hand – but also because it gives us the opportunity to explain the science behind the range.”

Lindsay Gall from Likit Products: “This has been another great BETA for Likit Products.

There has been a huge amount of interest in the new Electro-Bar and we’ve had a very good uptake for the redesigned display stand. It’s an ideal opportunity to show just how fantastic our whole product range can look with well structured merchandising.”

Alexander Sandau from TimerGPS Europe: “Our company was at BETA International the very first time this year. We decided on rather short notice to come all the way from Finland to show our products.

And we are happy we did so: We met many retailers, wholesalers as well as interested riders – even from international event level.”

Paul Murphy, the creator

of the Pro Fit Stud and managing director of Ardall: “We have had a fantastic show and the interest has been amazing. We were flat out for much of the show, have taken lots of orders and have been dealing with a huge amount of interest. Word has got out that there’s now an effective alternative to old fashioned, difficult to fit screw studs, and around three quarters of the people who came to our stand had us on their mustsee list. We couldn’t be happier with how the show’s gone.

“Having a product like the Pro-Fit Stud requires a bit of explanation initially as people just can’t believe it’s so simple. Being at BETA International has allowed us to show people exactly how it works, and they’ve loved it.”

Sarah-Jane Fedarb, managing director at Finest Brands International: “We have been overwhelmed and genuinely shocked by the huge success of all our new products.

We’ve had retailers coming onto the stand and literally ordering every item from all our new ranges, which is amazing and very exciting for us. A number of these products have been in development for a while, and if anything we were slightly concerned that we were launching too many new concepts at once, but our retailers had been asking for these new ranges and true to their word, the response we received quickly eased our worries and our retailers tucked in to the new ranges!” ■

Joey from War Horse brought some drama to proceedings

BETA International 2015 will take place at the NEC, Birmingham, from February 22–24. For information about exhibiting at the show, contact James Palmer, telephone +44 (0)1937 582111 or email jamesp@beta-int.com.

Trade Fair Review

Society of Master Saddlers winners This year’s BETA International saw young and talented apprentices and trainees competing for the top awards in the Society of Master Saddlers’ competitions throughout the three days.

A

lways a major feature of BETA International, the competitions draw a lot of interest, with visitors able to see quality craftsmanship in the making as the students work at their stations in the Saddlery Pavilion.

The Sunday featured four apprentices from the Saddlery Training Centre, all enrolled on saddlery apprenticeship schemes, taking on the task of crafting a leather foal slip of their own design. Competing were Leslie Evans of White Rose Saddlery, Eloise Caisley of Colne Saddlery, Tanya Baldwin of the Kings Troop RHA and Lois Wybraniec. The winner was Lois Wybraniec, with Eloise Caisley of Colne Saddlery taking the runner-up award.

Said Lois: “It is wonderful to win the competition and I have very much enjoyed being at BETA International. I spent six hours making the foal slip, concentrating very carefully on the quality of the stitching.

I will now be able to buy a new splitting machine with my prize money.”

The competition was judged by Master Saddlers Laura Dempsey and Roger Coates who said: “It was very close between all four competitors, the foal slips were beautifully made from start to finish and the standard was extremely high.”

On the Monday, four second year Capel Manor College students set to work to make a pair of cheek pieces to the level three specification.

Students Sophie Bassett, Daisy Franklin, Martina Dawson and Ellise Langley put their craftsmanship, skills and knowledge they have acquired to the test.

The top award went to youngest

Lois Wybraniec receiving her award from Mark Romain

student Sophie Bassett with Martina Dawson close behind in second place. Said Sophie: “I was definitely shocked but very delighted to win! The standard was really high and I made sure I concentrated on quality rather than speed.”

On the Tuesday, four first year students from Capel Manor College and the Saddlery Training Centre made a pair of stirrup leathers. Apprentices George Hills of Andy Wheals, The Saddle Man and Victoria Barnett of Bearhouse Saddlery

and Corrin King and Eva Shiyanova, both from Capel Manor, showcased their leatherworking talents.

Youngest student Corrin King, with her fine attention to detail, finished in first place with Victoria Barnett taking the runner-up award. Said Corrin: “I am over the moon to win and I will be spending my winnings on some new tools for college.

I have always loved horses and making things out of leather, since I was little I used to make miniature tack out of old leather wallets for the model horses I collected.”

The competition was judged

by Master Saddlers Laurence Pearman and Chris Taylor who said: “There was a very high standard of work presented and it was fantastic to see the younger students showcasing their talent in conditions that are not easy to work in.”

Once again the prize money was kindly donated by The Worshipful Company of Saddlers with the winners taking home £150 and the runners up receiving a generous £100.

Members and officials from The Society of Master Saddlers were on hand in the Saddlery Pavilion throughout BETA International to answer questions and offer advice about the various courses available and benefits of being a member.

Said Hazel Morley of the Society of Master Saddlers: “The competitions at BETA International are a great way to introduce visitors to the skills being taught to our younger generation of craftsmen and women and as ever proved popular with visitors over the three days. We are really proud to be able to showcase our work as a society.” ■

March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

33

BUSINESS MATTERS

VAT: forty years on and still causing anguish!

Mark Lumsdon-Taylor, director of finance and resources at Hadlow College, takes a look at VAT.

T

he UK government is often blamed for the imposition of VAT. In fact, the rules are set by the EU and all 28 member states must abide by them. The current rate is 15%. Member states have the option of raising their VAT above the rate set by the EU. The 20% rate set by the UK government is one of the lowest and British citizens also benefit from the fact that most food and children’s clothes – and some other goods – are zero-rated.

Readers who were in business before 1973 will remember Purchase Tax. On April 1 1973 (the choice of this date resulted in some wry humour) VAT became a requirement for membership of what – at that time – was usually referred to in full as the European Economic Community. Charged with introducing VAT in the UK, the then Chancellor of the Exchequer, Anthony Barber, made a fatal boob when he described it as ‘a simple tax’ – words that came back to haunt him!

At the time of writing, the threshold for VAT registration is £79,000 per year. (This may change when the Chancellor of the Exchequer announces the budget

on March 19.) Every company, partnership and individual with a turnover exceeding this sum must register and, at the end of each VAT period, normally every three months, a VAT Return must be completed for HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)

What is VAT? VAT is a tax on consumers, not a charge on business – but it is the latter that acts as tax collector.

Inevitably it is sole traders and small businesses that bear the brunt because of limited staffing levels – and of course, the equestrian industry in entirety comprises very considerable numbers of sole traders and SMEs. The approach of a VAT Return date can fill some individuals with dread – even terror – but once the basics are understood, VAT really is reasonably straightforward.

And of course, software such as SAGE – although expensive and therefore probably not suitable for very small businesses – can lighten the burden dramatically.

(Take a look at Sage Instant Accounts and check up on similar packages (ensure that the software is HMRC approved.)

But…but…there are some areas where it is easy to make mistakes.

And mistakes can result in stringent penalties – ignorance is no defence!

DIY or accountant?

Businesses registering VAT for the first time may well be daunted by being faced by what appears to be a vast amount of complicated work. HMRC websites provide detailed guidance but it does take a fair amount of concentration to assimilate the information.

In some cases it may be more viable to hand the work over to an accountant but, if this isn’t an economic possibility, it is certainly worth considering investing in one of the private sector training courses available in most parts of the country. Select one that is designed to provide help with setting up a suitable system. Some systems will be inappropriate

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Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

BUSINESS MATTERS

VAT facts ■ A buyer cannot reclaim the input VAT paid without a valid VAT invoice from the supplier (which must include the VAT registration number). In practice, many small businesses use the cash accounting scheme, restricting entry to transactions that have been completed whether sales or purchase.

■ VAT returns are based on payments made and money received during the VAT Return period, regardless of where the tax points fall.

■ Relief is available for bad debts.

■ Some purchases will be zero-

rated but it is still necessary to obtain a receipt that includes the VAT registration number if applicable – or an ‘ordinary’ receipt if the supplier is not VAT registered.

WARNING! An HMRC inspector – disguised as a ‘customer’ – visited a business premise and asked to see the company’s VAT receipt to verify that issue was standard practice and complied with the legal requirement. It transpired that someone had been fraudulently using the business’ VAT number – and pocketing the VAT revenue.

The perpetrator was eventually given a custodial sentence. Big brother is watching you!

Mark Lumsdon-Taylor

or unnecessarily complicated.

(Most training providers also offer follow-up services and help with ‘special issues’.)

Of course, it goes without saying that is it preferable to enrol for a course when the threshold for VAT registration is approaching and certainly it shouldn’t be left until a couple of days before the Return is due. Disaster would surely strike – HMRC shows no mercy!

Is it possible to avoid paying VAT? HMRC prides itself on the rigorously successful way in which it tackles tax avoidance but all businesses and individuals are entitled to manage tax affairs, in legitimate ways, that ensure they do not pay more than the tax due! Without any doubt, businesses that are too small to employ a finance director, accountant or bookkeeper are the

ones that often pay more than they need! In the case of VAT, businesses and individuals with turnover just over the threshold might wish to consider reducing output/turnover by limiting orders so avoiding the hassle.

In fact, there are several situations in which it is necessary to cancel VAT registration – when, for example, the business no longer makes VAT-taxable goods. Voluntary cancellation can be effected when the value of taxable supplies is expected to reduce below the threshold.

The HMRC website includes a very good guide that deals with how to cancel an existing registration. (Note that HMRC must be advised within 30 calendar days of the reason for cancellation. Failure to comply with this regulation can result in application of a financial penalty.) ■

Mark Lumsdon-Taylor attended Keele University where he read Law and Economics. On leaving, he joined Macintyre Hudson, a leading London accountancy firm, undertook an ACA training contract and quickly rose to become a director of audit. Mark joined Hadlow College with an initial brief as a ‘trouble shooter’ to design and implement fiscal recovery and to effect change within the College’s central services. He was appointed Director of Finance & Resources in 2004 after extensive work involving further recovery and reorganisation of the college’s activities, (Hadlow is rated Outstanding by Ofsted and is in the top category for financial stability.)

Mark’s work was acknowledged when he was awarded Accountancy Age UK Finance Director of the Year (Public Sector) in 2007 and was a runner up in 2010 and 2013.

In 2008, Hadlow College was

awarded the title ‘KEIBA Large Company of the Year’ for its performance in business. Mark is shortlisted in the Public Sector and Voluntary UK FD of the Year category for this year’s prestigious Financial Director magazine’s Business Finance Awards.

March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

35

What to stock for Successful Sales

Spring/Summer Tops & Jackets From lightweight competition jackets, to polo shirts and gilets, the spring/summer collections are bright, bold and highly technical

T

he UK’s weather is highly changeable throughout spring and summer making it uniquely challenging to dress for the conditions. To cope with these conditions manufacturers are using ingenious designs and materials that work hard to change as frequently as the weather. For instance, useful features such as zip off sleeves on Equi-Direct’s Purdy Ladies Jacket mean that it quickly converts from a lightweight

Aptos Fashion Show Top Ariat Europe

waterproof jacket to a gilet.

Technical materials play an important role in the collections at the moment with items such as Ariat’s Aptos Fashion Show Top using an exclusive breathable material to help regulate the rider’s temperature. Competition shirts have to be perhaps the most hardworking of clothing as they must look smart and traditional yet provide flexibility and help to keep the rider cool. Equetech’s Fusion top does just that, with an Sizes: XS–XXL Colours: navy, french blue or french blue stripe RRP: £34.99

An advanced technical piece of equestrian clothing designed using an exclusive breathable material to help regulate the rider’s temperature. The pretty design is ideal for those that like a trendy, yet classic look in the saddle and features a woven mock collar with stock tie loop, and a placket with snap closures. Made from a poly and spandex blend pique, with built in stretch.

Hawling Jacket Caldene

36

Ivy Softshell Jacket

£34.9

9

Sizes: S, M, L, XL Colours: chocolate, black RRP: £93.50

Caldene’s new Hawling jacket is both practical and fashionable. Ideal for a day out, the jacket will be the envy of the crowd. The Hawling is a waterproof jacket with taped seams.

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

added stylish touch thanks to the contrast colour which cannot be seen under a jacket but provides a flash of colour with the jacket off.

Of course stockists won’t go far wrong with co-ordinated collections of polo shirts, hoodies, zip tops and gilets

0

Sizes: XS–XXL Colours: sapphire, espresso RRP: £69.99

Ariat Europe

Utilising Ariat’s windproof and water resistant Softshell technology, this fashionable jacket is stretchy to allow for freedom of movement and retains heat whilst still being breathable – ideal for unpredictable spring weather. The stain repellent outer protects against marks to maintain a smart and fresh appearance. Features include a rear vent, 2-way zipper, mock collar and zippered hand pockets for practicality.

Blanca – Sweat Jacket

£93.5

that allow customers to layer up in stylish separates and yet co-ordinate colours for a sleek and sophisticated look.

Colour-wise, it is clear that soft pastel blues are an important look for this season, with pink still also holding its own.

Cavallo

£69.9

9

Sizes: youth: 158–172, ladies: 34–46 Colours: bright lilac, pearl blue, apple green, blueberry RRP: youth £67.67, ladies £79.00

A fashionable cotton hoody in really attractive pastel colours to complement both jeans and also the Cavallo Spring/Summer 2014 range of technical rider clothing.

Easy care and washable and made from 100% cotton for comfort.

Lots of Cavallo branding and logo stitching to add interest. Sold in both Youth and Ladies sizes.

£67.6

7+

LET’S TALK PRODUCTS Games jersey POLO SHIRT

Sizes: kids 10 to 14. Female XS to L Colours: white, light blue contrasts RRP: Kids £32.50 Female £34.50

EQUI-THÈME

A jersey polo shirt (92% cotton and 8% elastane) that is very comfortable to wear with a tailored cut and short fitted sleeves. It has a contrasted collar, end of sleeves and official tape on the inside of collar, Equi-Thème logo print on chest and event logo tag on lower area. Contrasted apple tree flower print and “2014 World Equestrian Games FEI Alltech in Normandy” printed on the back.

Calvert Deluxe Tweed Riding Jacket Equetech

An exquisite fitted riding jacket featuring the unique In Vent stretch seams and made with added lycra for additional movement in the saddle. Incorporates an easy zip off interchangeable collar system with many collar options. This jacket comes with one self fabric collar and one grey satin collar. Made from beautiful stretch twill with a showerproof finish - 95% polyester twill / 5% lycra.

Gersemi

0+

.50+

A light bomber jacket with outer made of breathable polycotton (75% polyester and 25% cotton) and inner lining made of satin polyester. It has a high collar and full height 2-way zip with two flat slanted pockets with flaps on outside and inner press button chest pocket. A contrasted raised embroidery badge reads “2014 World Equestrian Games FEI Alltech in Normandy” on the chest.

£93.9

5

£86.0

0

£41.9

Sizes: S–XXL Colours: sunflower yellow or fuschia pink RRP: £79.99

Elegantly fitted with a two-way front zip, and a wide, comfortable elasticated belt.

Made from soft, peach-skin polyester, this water-resistant, extremely breathable and lightweight jacket, is available in fashionable colours, which are complimented with sculpted black panels and silver-grey piping.

It is when the weather warms up that this jacket reveals its secret … zip out the sleeves and pop on the gilet.

Greenhead Jacket

0+

5

This exciting new shirt combines two looks in one. The unique cut allows the rider to wear this shirt in competition without the contrast vest showing as well as for training and around the yard. Very flattering shirt designed for ultimate stretch and shape retention. Woven 95% cotton / 5% lycra.

Equi-Direct

£63.9

Sizes: 8–18 Colours: pink or navy RRP: £41.95

Equetech

Purdy Ladies Jacket

Sizes: XS–XL Colours: poppy, marine RRP: £86.00

The Gersemi Alaia is an understated elegant cotton knit top that has subtle design details. It features a full length front zipper that makes it ideal for popping on over a T shirt or for wearing on its own.

Its clean simple lines are uncluttered and flattering. A small crown logo embellished with crystals is the only adornment with tonal top stitching on the arms. It sits neatly on the hips and has a high neck with contrast colour cotton knit lining.

EQUI-THÈME

Sizes: kids 10 to 14, female XS to L, male M to XXL Colours: navy, grey/blue contrasts RRP: From £63.90

Fusion Competition Shirt

£125

Sizes: 32”–48” Colours: black / navy RRP: £93.95

Equetech

Alaia

£32.5

Sizes: 32”–48” Colours: green RRP: 32-42: £125.50, 44-48 £131.50

An exquisite fresh green tweed riding jacket with subtle overchecks in blues and greens. Pure New Wool Polyester Lining, incorporating double back vents for a flattering outline. Features flap pockets with concealed zips to keep valuables safe and secure and three finely engraved Foxhead buttons to the front. Rich gold jacquard lining. Available with either navy velvet or tweed collar to suit all disciplines.

Medley In Vent Competition Jacket

BOMBER JACKET

Sizes: S, M, L, XL Colours: navy RRP: £58.50

Harry Hall

Add some style to your customer’s wardrobe with the new Greenhead quilted jacket, with its fitted design and inner ribbed collar. With two front pockets and a two way zip the Greenhead jacket is not only stylish but also very practical.

Made from 100% Polyester, the jacket also features a contrast check lining and Harry Hall branding on the arm.

£79.9

9

£58.5

March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

0

37

LET’S TALK PRODUCTS Tanya Coat Jack Murphy

Sizes: 10–20 Colours: badger, plum, heritage navy RRP: £99.99

Waterproof, windproof and breathable, with taped seams the Tanya Coat is an inspired take on a traditional parka style, with a fully integrated hood and clever internal drawstring. Finishing touches include, taped seams, adjustable cuff, front yoke detail and zip pockets, Jack Murphy branded print to left yoke, rabbit check lining to the top of the body and hood, with mesh lining to sleeves, pockets and bottom hem.

Fairfield Gilet Lansdown

Lansdown

Mountain Horse

£50.0

0

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

This performance polo is ideal for casual or competition wear, sporting the unique Swarovski crystal buttons and John Whitaker Signature.

Features include: four Swarovski crystal buttons, Swarovski crystal John Whitaker signature, repels moisture away from the body, tonal stitching and a 5cm collar

Lansdown’s mediumweight jumper is extremely versatile, allowing it to be worn throughout the year and it is now available with a zip neck for a smart, contemporary feel. Generously cut around the arms to allow for a good range of movement, the technical knit makes this jumper both snag and wind resistant.

Sizes: X–XL Colours: navy RRP: £69.95

Mountain Horse

0

Made from 95% cotton, 5% spandex, the Mountain Horse Blair Zip is a comfortable, stretchy summer weight jersey jacket with a lovely brushed terry inside. Features include a full length zip and a large Mountain Horse embroidery on the front.

£39.9

Active Fleece Jacket

5

Result

£30.0

0

Sizes: S–3XL Colours: forest green RRP: £69.00

Lansdown

Blair Zip

£55.0

Sizes: XS–XL Colours: red, white, navy RRP: £30.00

John Whitaker Int’l Ltd

Half Zip Jumper with Patches

Sizes: XS–XXL Colours: white, pink, navy RRP: £39.95

Made from 95% cotton and 5% spandex the Mountain Horse Olivia Polo is a ladies polo shirt in a soft and stretchy cotton jersey which gives it a more casual look than some polos. There’s one chest pocket, gold snap buttons and sleeve detailing.

38

9

Sizes: 8–18 Colours: cloud dancer, navy, red RRP: £55.00

Lansdown is extremely proud of its Lansdown Yacht Club Gilets made from genuine sailcloth. This fabric is 100% waterproof and with its taped seams and waterproof zips, your customers are guaranteed to stay dry whether in the saddle or on terra firma. The shape is tailored for a flattering fit, and, as with all the company’s bodywarmers, this garment is also fully machine washable.

Olivia Polo

£99.9

Sizes: 8–18 Colours: dutch blue, navy RRP: £50.00

The Fairfield Gilet is a stylish, reversible bodywarmer. With two zip pockets, antiqued brass popper fasteners and a colour coordinated zip, this is a superbly practical and flexible garment. As always, Lansdown have included lots of detail, such as antiqued applique and Lansdown Polo Club embroideries.

LYC Gilet

Bling Performance Polo

£69.0

0

£69.9

5

Sizes: Adult–XS–XXL; Childs 3–14 Colours: navy, burgundy, natural, black, royal, forest, orange, red, oxford grey, white RRP: £13.25

With an athletic cut the Active Fleece Jacket has a hardwearing anti-pill finish a full front zip fastening, two large front pockets with stitched outline feature and elasticised cuffs. It has an adjustable shockcord hem, is stretchy fit and easycare and is also available in junior and youth sizes.

£13.2

5

LET’S TALK PRODUCTS Urban Fell Jacket

Sizes: men’s S–XXXL, ladies: 8–16 Colours: black, navy, royal, moss RRP: men’s £63, ladies: £57

Result

Waterproof, breathable and windproof the Urban Fell Lightweight Technical Jacket is lightweight with full taped seams and is also quick drying. It features an integrated waterproof hood with draw cord adjusters, easy open zip pullers, a full front zip fastening, two lined zip closing side pockets and an inside right chest lined zip closing pocket.

Baydon Toggi

Toggi

Result

£57.0

0+

Sizes: 8–20 Colours: begonia, ice blue RRP: £35.00

Baydon is a sophisticated and contemporary take on a classic polo shirt.

Flattering, three quarter length sleeves and a neat, self-fabric collar give this piece a subtle yet stylish look. Features include an elegant, slim buttoned placket with contrast colour inner and a striped back neck facing.

Hemsby

Urban CHELTENHAM GOLD

Toggi

0

Tottie

Sizes: XS–XL Colours: light grey marl & navy RRP: £48.50

Made from 100% cotton the Dove jacket from Tottie is great for a day out with friends, whether at an event or social gathering. The Tottie Dove is a must have jacket for the spring, warm enough to keep the chill off, but light enough to feel totally comfortable. It has a fitted design and is made from a comfy jersey material.

0

Sizes: 8–20 Colours: Black, Truffle RRP: £90.00

With classic styling and attention to detail, this piece is practical, sophisticated and looks fabulous. A durable water repellent finish means that the Cheltenham stays looking and feeling good for longer, the front zip fastening is concealed behind a self-fabric placket for added protection on breezy days, while the quilted outer gives added warmth to this feminine and fitted jacket.

£90.0

£35.0

0

Ariat Europe +44 (0)845 600 3209

Horsemasters Distribution +44 (0)1462 432596

www.ariat-europe.com

www.mountainhorse.co.uk

Caldene +44 (0)1274 711101

Jack Murphy Outdoor +44 (0)1768 867590

www.caldene.co.uk

www.jackmurphy.co.uk

Ekkia (Equi-Thème) 03 88 07 40 06

John Whitaker International Ltd +44 (0)1706 340 500

www.ekkia.co.uk

Dove

£47.5

0

Contacts

Sizes: 8–20 Colours: bretton blue/ice blue/ winter white & garnet/ grape/ winter white RRP: £35.00

The Hemsby cut and sew, slim fit polo is a classic piece with striking contrast panels. Contrast colour underneath the collar and at the placket adds interest while sophisticated embroidery detail at the chest and back neck in beautiful gold complements the colourful designs perfectly.

Result’s Urban Cheltenham Gold Jacket is water repellent and windproof. It comes with a corduroy collar, stud front external storm flap and a heavy front 2-way zip.

Features include a stud closing patch pocket with handwarmer sides a zipped external chest pocket, rear studded saddle vents and a back neck buggy.

Cheltenham

£35.0

Sizes: XS–XXL Colours: black RRP: £47.50

Equetech +44 (0)1296 688966

www.equetech.com

£48.5

0

Equi-Direct +44 (0)151 678 7182

www.highvisibility.uk.com Finest Brands International (Toggi) +44 (0)113 270 7000

www.toggi.com

www.johnwhitaker.com Lansdown +44 (0)1267 233737

www.lansdowncountry.co.uk Result +44 (0)1206 798131

www.resultclothing.com Tottie +44 (0)1274 711101

www.tottie.co.uk

Harry Hall +44 (0)1274 711101

Zebra Products Ltd (distributor for Cavallo & Gersemi) +44 (0)1352 763350

www.harryhall.co.uk

www.zebraproducts.co.uk

March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

39

ON THE MARKET PRODUCT

Go native

PRODUCT

Serious snacks

Blue Chip Feed has launched a unique new feed balancer called Original Native, specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of native ponies. Original Native contains a tailored level of probiotic to help maintain native ponies’ natural condition, helping to promote a healthy digestive system. It contains a high quality protein that helps build a strong topline, with additional oils and organic zinc to promote a strong mane and tail and a healthy, shiny coat guaranteed to turn heads.

Equilibrium Products Ltd launches Vitamunch, a tasty, nutritious snack packed with selected vitamins, herbs and minerals that will provide 50% of the published daily requirement of these essential nutrients for the average sized horse.

Vitamunch snacks are made from top quality Timothy grass which is slow dried at a low temperature and sealed in 1kg packs to maintain a fresh succulent flavour and a high nutrient level. The innovative munch net is the perfect way to allow the horse to make this snack last.

www.bluechipfeed.com

www.equilibriumproducts.com

PRODUCT

Irish charm for autumn/winter

PRODUCT

Beautiful boots

Irish clothing brand Jack Murphy is currently launching its Autumn Winter 2014 collection.

Encompassing a selection of exceptional tweed styles, gorgeous knitwear, beautiful waxed styles, stunning quilts, classic shirts and ultra cosy fleece styles the new collection is the epitome of country chic with an inimitably unique twist.

Inspired by the autumnal landscape the colour palette features an array of colour including berry tones of wine and red, wintry blues, earthy hues of brown and cream, refreshing greens, hints of glorious pink and warming shades of orange.

The Simona Crystal Patent Top Kids Boots epitomise style, value and practicality with an elastic panel at the rear that allows the child’s legs to grow. They feature a durable rubber sole, elastic panel along the back of the leg, laced front, silver trim along the toes and patent boot top, black leather main frame, new diamanté ‘B’ stud placed along the side strap, complete with four crystals. Ideal for any young rider wanting to add a bit of bling to their riding wear!

www.jackmurphy.ie

www.brogini.com

PRODUCT

Great to grab

Kate Negus Saddlery introduces a Neck Strap to its collection of top quality British bridlework and leather accessories.

The Neck Strap is made from English leather and sports a brass buckle, to match other Kate Negus products. Unlike stirrups leathers that often get used, the Neck Strap is designed for the task and has keepers to prevent any unused leather flapping around the horse’s neck.

The Kate Negus Neck Strap is available in black and chestnut.

www.katenegus.com

40

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

PRODUCT

Pavo Mobility

In order to move correctly, it is important that the joints function correctly. Cartilage, synovial fluid and ligaments are together responsible for the control of movement. Disruptions in the joints such as inflammation, growth of cartilage or wear and tear are often painful and prevent correct movement – this can result in stiffness, loss of willingness to work and injuries. The unique combination of Colatech collagen with a glucosamine complex and chondroitin in Pavo Mobility assist the correct working of the horse’s joints.

www.pavohorses.co.uk

KEN LYNDON-DYKES

Land use, horses and climate change

– a burning fuse?

Ken Lyndon-Dykes on the increasing pressures of land use and the future place of horses in the UK landscape.

I

have been asked to take part in a debate at Hadlow College which has a deliberately contentious topic – ‘Land used for horses is wasted’. You may imagine on which side of the motion I am speaking – against, obviously! Putting this into a very personal perspective, were horses to disappear or their numbers be heavily reduced, my business would fail and I would probably go bankrupt! Also I recall with immense pleasure the wonderful years spent eventing my own horses – some of the happiest and most fulfilling times of my life.

But taking an objective view, it is quite possible that land utilised to fulfil the needs of competition and recreationalrelated horses may come under close scrutiny in the future.

Human kind is facing massive challenges – global population is increasing at a vast rate and is predicted to reach 8 billion-plus by the spring of 2014. Today it has reached the seven-and-aquarter billion figure – which is ahead of the figures that had been predicted. Incidentally, the World Meters website publishes real-time statistics and you can witness the figures changing and recording daily rates in regard to births, deaths, population growth, plus totals for births, deaths and population growth throughout the year thus far. It is fascinating viewing that reveals a terrifyingly upward trend.

The biggest pressures on land usage will relate to food and homes, they are going to be the top priority, and the vastly increasing requirements will have to be realised on less land as sea levels rise due to climate change. And no, I am not going to argue whether the changes are ‘natural’ or are as a result of human intervention. Debating this point merely deflects attention from the serious issues that relate to the impact of the changes.

The land that is lost due to sea level rises will be a crucial factor. Some will be productive

“ The biggest pressures on land usage will relate to food and homes” farming land; other parts will involve businesses and homes.

All will have to be relocated putting pressures on the use of land in other areas. This will be a global problem and, in our own country, the Environment Agency has already warned that it will be impossible to protect all vulnerable areas.

At the same time, the world, not least the UK, is suffering increased numbers of Extreme Weather Events with flooding having particular impact on agriculture, horticulture, homes and businesses – and, of course – horses and equestrianism.

Facing and overcoming these challenges has resulted in a raft of suggestions, some of which seem way out. But are they when push comes to shove and governments are faced with taking drastic measure or seeing people go hungry – even starve? With all the related potential social unrest and civic disobedience to consider, harsh

decisions may have to be made.

One of the seemingly extreme measures suggested related to converting land used for livestock production to arable use on the basis that this would be more viable. In other words – and put very simplistically– a field used to produce wheat would feed more people than the same field used for livestock farming. By the same token, some scientists have very extreme views in relation to horses and they have suggested that it will not be feasible to devote land to grazing for equines – nor to use land to produce crops intended to feed horses.

On the other side of the debate, many commentators suggest that it will be essential to utilise livestock and horse manure in order to improve the soil and make it more productive. At the current time, farmers and growers are being asked to produce more food using fewer resources in terms of artificial fertilisers, fuel, et cetera. I am not a soil scientist but I can understand the argument. After all, manure was used to ‘feed’ the land for hundreds and hundreds of years.

Much more recently concerns have arisen regarding toxins within animal waste. As far as I am aware, although there have been several studies involving livestock intestinal microflora, the same have not been undertaken in respect of horses. In the meantime, the use of horse and livestock manure is subject to HACCP – Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points – described as ‘a systematic preventive approach to food safety and biological, chemical, and physical hazards in production processes that can cause the

finished product to be unsafe, and designs measurements to reduce these risks to a safe level’.

A mouthful, but the meaning is clear. Interestingly, household waste that now forms part of the recycling collections in many areas is processed for use under strict controls governed by HACCP – and treated human waste is utilised in many countries.

Another argument in favour of retaining horses – heavy working horses that is – relates to the fact that a horse-drawn plough often copes better on saturated land or over awkward terrain than mechanised machinery.

Pollution would be minimal and farmers using this method would not be subject to energy price hikes. Furthermore, horses generate their own replacements relatively cheaply in comparison with replacing one of today’s highly technical, computeroperated tractors! And of course, another potential plus relates to the use of horses for meat – an anathema in this country, it is practised in many parts of Europe. But then, in some countries, dog meat is enjoyed! I would have to be at starvation’s door to stomach either!

I look forward to the debate.

As well as equine degrees, Hadlow offers higher education programmes in agriculture and horticulture and so no doubt passions will be raised on both sides of the debate!

Plus some notable people from the related industries are attending. Should be fun! ■

KEN LYNDON-DYKES is an ex-international level three-day-event rider. A Qualified Society of Master Saddlers’ saddle fitter and a member of the society’s executive committee, he owns and runs Saddleworld, one of the largest saddle retailers in the UK. Ken is increasingly in demand as a professional witness and adjudicator in reation to saddlery-related claims and disputes. He is also wellknown as an inspirational and interesting lecturer/speaker.

March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly www.ebmonthly.co.uk

41

SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY Abbey Diagnostics +44 (0)1638 552122 www.abbeydiagnostics.co.uk a Abbey Saddlery and Crafts Ltd +44 (0)1565 650343 www.abbeyengland.com a Acorn Developments +44 (0)1432 276600 www.acorndev.co.uk

Earlswood Supplies +44 (0)8450 171351

Harold Moore +44 (0)114 2700513

Likit For orders Westgate EFI +44 (0)1303 872277

Eazitools Equestrian +44 (0)1302 746077

Haybar +44 (0)1723 882434

Littlemax +44 (0)1668 213467

Albedo100 UK Ltd +44 (0)113 3955266

Equestrian Creative Network

www.albedo100.co.uk

Allen and Page +44 (0)1362 822900

www.allenandpage.com a

Andover Healthcare, Inc. +1 978 4650044

www.andoverhealthcare.com a

www.earlswood-supplies.com a www.eazitools.co.uk a

www.haybar.co.uk a

ww.eqlife.co.uk

www.hemptechnology.co.uk a

EQ Life Magazine +44 (0)1953 852946

www.equestriancreativenetwork.com

Equi-Ads +44 (0)1738 567700 www.equiads.net

Equimat +44 (0)1536 513456 www.equimat.co.uk a

Animal Health Company +44 (0)1787 476400

Equine Speedskip +44 (0)1989 769435

B Jenkinson & Sons Ltd +44 (0)1924 454681

Equestrian Supplies +44 (0)1254 831645 a Equestrian Vision +44 (0)1403 865320

www.equinehealthandherbal.co.uk a www.elico.co.uk a

Baileys Horse Feeds +44 (0)1371 850247

wwwbaileyshorsefeeds.co.uk a

Bedmax Shavings +44 (0)1922 621676

www.bedmaxshavings.com a

Brinicombe Equine +44 (0)8700 606206

www.brinicombe-equine.co.uk a

British Horse Feeds +44 (0)1765 680300

www.britishhorsefeeds.com a

Champion + 44 (0)113 2707007

www.championhats.co.uk

Charles Owen +44 (0)1978 317777

www.charlesowen.co.uk

Clarendon Equestrian Ltd +44 (0)1825 733361

www.clarendon-equestrian.com

Classic Showjumps +44 (0)161 765 2010 / 2014 www.classicshowjumps.com

Clipper Sharp +44 (0)1823 681076

www.equinespeedskip.com a

www.hiltonherbs.com

Holdsworth PR +44 (0)1903 892060

www.holdsworthpr.co.uk a

Honeychop Horse Feeds +44 (0)1359 230823 www.honeychop.com a

Horse & Jockey Ltd +44 (0)1981 550467 www.capcover.net aa

a LS Sales (Farnam) Ltd +44 (0)1608 683855 www.lesliesutcliffe.biz aa Maquien Design +44 (0)8000 925699 www.maquiendesign.co.uk a Maxavita +44 (0)8450 752754 www.maxavita.com a Mears Country Jackets Ltd +44 (0)1922 476930 www.mearsjackets.com a Measom Freer +44 (0)116 2881588 www.measomfreer.co.uk

www.silvermoor.com a

Smart Grooming +44 (0)1823 681076 a Solocomb +44 (0)1235 511358

www.solocomb.co.uk

Spartan Equestrian Products +44 (0)1474 705065

www.spartanequestrian.com

Spoga + Gafa +44 (0)208 6818166

www.spogagafa.com

Sportmark by Signam +44 (0)1926 417300

www. sportsmark.co.uk a

Stable Safe +44 (0)7500 091650

www.stable-safe.com

www.equestrianvision.co.uk a

Horse First Ltd +44 (0)2830 848844 www.horsefirst.neta

Mirrors for Training +44 (0)1902 791207

www.stormsure.co.uk a

www.equiami.com

Horse Health Trade +44 (0)2380 814360

New Equine Wear +44 (0)1172 303700

www.taurusfootwearandleathers. co.uk a

EquiAmi Ltd +44 (0)1584 891049 Equine Management +44 (0)1825 840002

www.equineman.com a

Equisafety Ltd +44 (0)1516 787182

www.equisafety.com a

Exo2 +44 (0)1335 372600 www.exo2.co.uk

Faulks & Co. +44 (0)1455 848184 www.wmfaulks.com a

Fly Away +44 (0)1384 877857 www.flyaway.ltd.uk

Friendship Estates +44 (0)1302 700220

www.friendshipestates.co.uk a

Fynalite +44 (0)1789 764848

Cox Agri +44 (0)845 600 8081

Gain Horse Feeds +44 (0)7912 197000

Creative Equine Marketing +44 (0)780 3728646

Global Herbs +44 (0)1243 773363

www.coxagri.com a

www.gainhorsefeeds.co.uk a

www.creativeequinemarketing.co.uk

www.globalherbs.co.uk

Dodson and Horrell +44 (0)1832 737300

Golly Galoshes +44 (0)7585 557775

www.gollygaloshes.com

Grays of Shenstone +44 (0)1543 483344

www.dogrocks.co.uk a

www.graysofshenstone.co.uk

www.DurangoBoot.com

www.nuumed.co.uk

Durango +1 740-753-1951

Hilton Herbs Ltd +44 (0)1460 270700

www.littlemaxshavings.com

Silvermoor +44 (0)1665 602587

Merial Animal Health Ltd +44 (0)1279 775858

www.clippersharp.comt

Dog Rocks +44 (0)1628 822 243

Hemp Technology Ltd +44 (0)1986 835678

www.likit.com a

Horsefair +44 (0)1264 811425

www.fynalite.co.uk

www.dodsonandhorrell.com a

www.haroldmoore.co.uk a

Griffin Nuumed +44 (0)1458 210324

www.horsefair.co.uk a

www.horsehealthtrade.co.uk

Horses with Attitude +44 (0)1274 852139

www.horseswithattitude.co.uk

Horseware Ireland +353 42 9389000

www.horseware.com

Horslyx +44 (0)16973 32592 www.horslyx.co.uk

Hucklesby Associates +44 (0)1362 696309

www.hucklesbyassociates.co.uk

Hunter-Outdoor (K & K CLOTHING) +44 (0)121 555 8334 www.rockall.info

Jack Murphy +44 (0)1768 867590

www.jackmurphy.co.uk

Kate Negus +44 (0)1249 740590

www.katenegus.com a

Keratex +44 (0)1373 827649 www.keratex.com a

Kevin Bacon’s +44 (0)1296 662473

www.merial.com

www.mirrorsfortraining.co.uk a www.newequinewear.co.uk

Toggi +44 (0)113 2707007

www.parkgateequestrian.co.uk

www.toggi.com

Parallax Plastics Ltd +44 (0)115 966 3836

Top Paddock +44 (0)1469 563995

www.parallaxplastics.co.uk

Pellet Beds +44 (0)1789 761333 www.pelletbeds.com

PelGar +44 (0)1420 80744 www pelgar.co.uk

Pfizer Animal Health +44 (0)1304 616161

www.LifeDatalabs.com

www.trelawneequine.co.uk aa a

Vale Brothers +44 (0)1239 614648 www.kbf99.co.uk

www.presspoint.co.uk a

Virbac Animal Health +44 (0)1359 243243

PressPoint +44 (0)1953 851513

www.vetericyn.com aa

Rima Exports +91 972 1504005

www.equimax-tabs.com a

rimaexport@gmail.com a

Robinson Animal Healthcare +44 (0)1909 735000 www.robinsoncare.com a

Rockall +44 (0)121 5558334 www.rockall.info a

Saracen Horse Feeds + 44 (0)1622 718 487

Life Data Labs Inc +1 256 3707555

Trelawne Equine Ltd +44 (0)8442 578585

Vetericyn +353 91 796896

Kozi Kidz +44 (0)1302 746680

enquiries@letstalkhorses.co.uk a

www.top-paddock.co.uk a

www.wormingyourhorse.info a

Rockies +44 (0)1606 595025

Lets Talk Horses + 44 (0)1953 850678

Taurus Footwear and Leathers Ltd +44 (0)1328 851432

Parkgate Equestrian +44 (0)1306 631374

www.kevinbacons.co.uk

www.kozikidz.co.uk a

Stormsure +44 (0)3333 441500

www.rockies.co.uk a

www.saracen-horse-feeds.co.uk a

Seaquim +353 (0)8623 64609

www.seaquimequine.net

Science Supplements +44 (0)8456 800606

www.sciencesupplements.co.uk

W F Young, Inc +001 413 526 9999

www.absorbine.co.uk a

Wahl +44 (0)1227 740555 www.wahl.co.uk a

Westgate EFI Ltd +44 (0)1303 872277 a Westgate Labs +44 (0)1670791994

www.westgatelabs.co.uk aa

Worklite Ltd +44 (0)1279 418052 www.work-lite.com a

Your Gift Horse +44 (0)1454 510102

www.yourgifthorse.com a

To advertise in the suppliers directory the minimum requirement is 5 insertions at £20 each.

A sixth insertion is then added free of charge, producing a net cost of just £16.60 each.

42

Equestrian Business Monthly | March 2014 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

“From small acorns great forests grow�

www.sherwoodforest-uk.com March 2014 | Equestrian Business Monthly 43 TEL: +44 (0) 115 942 4265 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

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