Posted: 2nd November 2021 | Back to news feed
In 2019, Horse of the Year Show welcomed two new awards designed to recognise the hard work and commitment of their tradestand exhibitors. After what seems like a very long 2 years, the show, the exhibitors, and the Tradestand of the Year awards (TOTY) were back with a bang for 2021!
Working in conjunction with The Equestrian Index, the TOTY awards are designed to recognise exhibitor talents in trade stand dressing and etiquette throughout the show week. All trade stands by way of exhibiting are automatically entered into the awards which have two sections; Best Display 20sqm and under and Best Display over 20sqm.
Judging for the awards took place anonymously by two industry experts over Wednesday and Thursday of the show during trading hours. Every trade stand (and team) was marked out of 10 across four categories; best overall impression, warmest welcome, best use of space and best interaction with customers.
The winner of the 20sqm and under category in 2021 was West Sussex based company, Equine America – a traditional, family-run business dedicated to providing an extensive range of highly effective supplements and external applications for horses, dogs, cats and people. A long-standing exhibitor at HOYS, they were none the less delighted with their new TOTY title. Judges feedback was that the stand space was used effectively, all products were easy to view and access and the stand was open and inviting for customers. The staff were incredibly friendly and engaging with customers and their product knowledge was second to none.
Taking the honours in the over 20sqm was Cheshire based business Horzehoods Ltd along with sister brand HH Unique. Their inviting, eye-catching stand meant the team were kept extremely busy and the way the staff handled customers played a big part in their victory. The judges’ feedback was that their stand was stunning, impeccably presented and staff really did go above and beyond to look after visitors despite often being inundated.
Both worthy winners were awarded with a trophy and a year’s digital membership with The Equestrian Index.
2021 was a tough year for the judges, with a phenomenal amount of effort on display from all exhibitors. In addition to the top placings, three stands received a Highly Commended recognition from the judges:
Over 20sqm Joshua Jones & 20sqm and under Equielle Equestrian and Gillingham’s Himalyx.
Congratulations to all and what a fantastic shopping experience you offered to the HOYS visitors!
For more Tradestand news from HOYS plus our vlog series from the event please visit: https://hoys.co.uk/equestrian-index-tradestand-vlogs/
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