As someone relatively new to the pet industry, attending SUPERZOO 2024 was an exciting opportunity for me. While my team has years of experience, my personal connection to the pet world has mostly been as a consumer—shopping for my Weimaraner/lab mix, Kevin. Every day, I learn something new about this dynamic market, so when it was time to join the team in Las Vegas for SUPERZOO, I jumped at the chance to dive deeper into all things pet.
I had never been to Las Vegas before, and the city’s vibrant energy perfectly set the tone for what was to come. I’ve attended my fair share of trade shows in other industries, but this was one I was genuinely excited about. Here are some of the key takeaways from the week there:
Pet Brands are FUN
My background spans industries like manufacturing, outdoor products, health & wellness, and sports, and I’ve attended numerous trade shows in those fields. What struck me about SUPERZOO was the genuine creativity and energy that pet brands bring to the table. I was wow’d by the diversity of products and ideas. The New Product Showcase was filled with pet innovations I would never even think of.
While working in the pet industry can come with its share of stress and pressure, I was inspired by the sense of fun woven into these brands. It’s not just the people—it’s reflected in the products, the packaging, and the overall brand identities. There’s something so refreshing about working in an environment where creativity and playfulness are embraced alongside business goals.
The Pet Industry is a Close-Knit Community
Like many industries, the pet world can feel quite small. Throughout the week, I watched my colleagues greet old friends, chat about families, and exchange updates from years past. There was an undeniable sense of community and camaraderie, both on and off the show floor. It became clear to me that relationships are at the heart of this industry, which only reinforces its welcoming vibe.
Trends Worth Noting
SUPERZOO offered a glimpse into the future of pet products, and a few trends caught my eye. I was thrilled to see environmentally friendly products and packaging are on the rise. As a consumer who looks for sustainability in the products I buy—whether for myself or my pet—it was great to see so many brands embracing eco-friendly options.
Another trend that stood out was the variety of enrichment toys. Every pet is different, and what works for one dog or cat might not for another. With the wide array of enrichment toys and puzzles on display, it’s clear that the industry is catering to pet parents who want to keep their pets engaged, happy, and healthy.
Overall Reflections
I learned so much during my time at SUPERZOO and left feeling energized about the future of the pet industry. Plus, you really can’t beat a work trip where you get to pet dogs for an entire week! I’m already looking forward to attending next year—and to seeing how much more I can learn and grow in this ever-evolving industry.
Jenna Johnston, Marketing Manager at Brand’s Best Friend