ETN - Equestrian Trade News - August 2015

Equestrian Trade News

August 2015 Volume 39, No 8 Monthly

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

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

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

HIDDEN SECRETS Why riders are buying better underwear

MADE IN BRITAIN Manufacturing tools for the trade

ETN is the official media partner of BETA International

PLUS

• Exclusive CCJ listing • Retailer profile • Are you Rio 2016 ready?

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

Editor’s Comment

CONTENTS

AUGUST 2015

WHY was there so much fuss last month about large stores being allowed to extend their Sunday trading hours?

Small shops have already have a ubiquitous competitor that’s open for business 24/7. It’s called The Internet. And most specialist retailers already have that licked with good customer service, expert advice and personal attention.

NEWS.................................................................... 4

TALK about the importance of getting the basics right in business… In an horrific accounting mistake, Marks & Spencer no less forgot to include £500 million worth of returned goods!

Meet Nicky Mackenzie’s equines........................ 16

I’M FURIOUS with the British Horse Society (BHS). Having been a member for the last goodness-knows-how-many years, I was flicking through the BHS members’ magazine British Horse the other evening and spotted a fun ride in my area.

Great, I thought, reading on to find out where and when – only to discover that it had already happened and what I was reading was actually a report.

So I telephoned the BHS to find out how I was supposed to get information about upcoming events for members. “It was on Facebook,” I was told. Ah, so is social media now a prerequisite of BHS membership?

No, I could be emailed information. Only one problem with that…the BHS has never asked for my email address – probably because I’ve been a member before such things existed.

But surely, as a direct debit paying subscriber, I should have been asked for it if that’s how they intend to keep members informed?

I duly gave the BHS my email address. But that’s the last I’ve heard from them, digitally or otherwise. And when it comes to renewing my membership, it might be the last they hear from me…

2015 BETA Feed Industry Conference................ 18

ALL power to white van man. Not only does he bring out the worse in tweeting politicians, but he holds the key to keeping Internet shoppers happy.

Whether he dumps parcels by the back gate in the rain or carefully delivers them with a smile forever colours the consumer’s view of the retailer whose goods he bears.

Talking of getting purchases to customers, this month sees John Lewis charging £2 for click and collect services on orders under £20 and Tesco likewise with a £4 fee on orders under £40. Meanwhile Amazon is going for speed with one hour delivery in central London.

BITS AND TRAINING AIDS................................... 41

Liz Benwell

PRODUCT NEWS Camouflage saddle cloths and more.................. 12 ETN TALKS HORSES PEOPLE............................................................... 17 SPECIAL REPORT SUMMER HORSECARE Vet’s advice and problem solving products........ 20 RETAILER PROFILE

COVER STORY

New shop opens in Essex.................................... 26 MADE IN BRITAIN

COVER STORY

Making stable tools in the West Midlands.......... 28 Also created in the UK…..................................... 30 BETA export missions explained........................ 34 BETA MEMBERS’ PAGE....................................... 35 BELOW THE BELT

COVER STORY

Hidden secrets: underwear uncovered............... 36 LEGAL DIGEST

COVER STORY

Are you Rio 2016 ready?..................................... 40 BETTER BUSINESS The value of video............................................... 44 COVER STORY COUNTY COURT JUDGMENTS.............................

46

FRONT COVER: This month’s gloriously glamorous image comes courtesy of riders’ underwear brand Derriere Equestrian. All those featured are riders who compete in Derriere, apart from Jamie who is a professional model. From left, they are Laura Campbell, Louis Peyton, Laura-Eve Thyer, Jamie Roche, Levi Hunt and Mathew Burnett. See page 36 and find out more at www.derriereequestrian.co.uk (Photo: Claire Galer of Derriere Equestrian Ltd)

News

4

Bogus product reviews on watchdog’s radar ONLINE reviews are read by more than half of consumers before making a purchase.

But can they always believe what they’re reading? Not necessarily, according to a new report from a Government watchdog.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has expressed concern about potentially misleading practices including: • fake reviews being posted onto review sites • negative reviews not being published • businesses paying for endorsements in blogs and other online articles without this being made clear to consumers The CMA is already investigating a number of unnamed companies over alleged non-disclosure of paid endorsements.

“Consumers who use online reviews and endorsements find them valuable, but we have also heard about some practices that may be unlawful,” said Nisha Arora, of the CMA. “We’re committed to ensuring that consumers’ trust in these important information tools is maintained, and will take enforcement action where necessary to tackle unlawful practices.

“We have opened an investigation into businesses that may be paying for endorsements in blogs and other online articles where the payment may not have been made clear to readers.”

Information for businesses telling them how to stay within the law can be found at www.gov.uk/government/organisations/competition-and-markets-authority

New store for Worcestershire A NEW country store has opened in Martley, nine miles north-west of Worcester.

Estate Country Feeds stocks horse, poultry, game bird and farm animal feeds. A feed mill is due to open at the site this autumn.

The new business has been set up by Richard Soloducha whose family owns Millson Engineering which builds and maintains animal feed mills.

Estate Country Feeds delivers locally and also stocks bedding, pet supplies, country clothing and footwear.

“As manufacturers of high quality feed, catering for the agricultural and equestrian sectors, our store will be a one stop shop for all animal feed requirements,” said Richard.

The new store has stands at Tenbury Show on the 1 August and Burwarton Show on the 6 August.

• A new boutique saddlery and clothing outlet has opened in Essex. See Retailer Profile on page 26

Contamination suspected as Olympic champion fails dope test THREE Swiss showjumping horses – including Nino des Buissonnets, ridden by Steve Guerdat to London 2012 individual gold - have tested positive for prohibited substances.

Poppy seed contamination is suspected, the FEI has confirmed.

Samples taken from the horse after winning the La Baule grand prix on 17 May returned positive for the banned substances codeine and oripavine, and the controlled medication substance morphine.

The FEI has announced similar doping control results for Steve Guerdat’s ride Nasa and Charivari, the mount of young rider Alessandra Buchsel.

Both riders were provisionally suspended from 20 July, with the three horses have provisionally suspended for two months.

“The presence in all these samples of Oripavine, which is not found in any veterinary products, suggests that this could be contamination, but obviously we still have to follow standard procedure,” said FEI secretary general Sabrina Zeender.

“The combination of oripavine, morphine and codeine have frequently been seen in contamination cases from other equestrian sport regulators, and the FEI already has three outstanding cases from 2014 involving oripavine and morphine in which we proactively sought the lifting of the provisional suspensions.”

Oripavine is an opioid analgesic that is not used clinically due to its very narrow therapeutic margin and extremely high toxicity levels. Oripavine positives are frequently the result of poppy seed ingestion. Codeine and morphine, both of which are found in poppy seeds, are also analgesics.

Due to increasing evidence of poppy seed contamination resulting in positives, the FEI downgraded morphine from a banned substance to controlled medication in 2013. Codeine is listed for a similar downgrading next year.

• See page 18 for a report on the fifth annual BETA Feed Industry Conference at which the principle focus was NOPS. The BETA NOPS assurance scheme works to reduce the risk of naturally occurring prohibited substances (NOPS) in equine feeds.

ADVERT INDEX

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

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Subscriptions Distributed on a controlled-circulation basis to the retail trade. Paid-for annual subscriptions are £39.95 (UK), £73.00 (Europe), £86.00 (rest of the world).

The magazine is independent of all groups.

Editorial views expressed in ETN are not necessarily the official view of any organisation or group.

Copyright: All material is copyright Equestrian Management Consultants Ltd. Design & Print: G.H. Smith & Son, Market Place, Easingwold, North Yorkshire YO61 3AB Tel: 01347 821329 Fax: 01347 822576 Email: etn@ghsmith.com Web: www.ghsmith.com ISSN 1462-9526

Abbey England....................................................14 Airowear Equestrian..............................................9 Albion Saddlemakers...........................................43 The Animal Health Company................................24 Animalife........................................................3 & 7 Frank Baines Saddlery Ltd....................................32 Battles.................................................................23 BETA International...............................................46 Brogini................................................................37 Citrus Lime..........................................................39 Classified.............................................................45 Derriere Equestrian Ltd.........................................38 Dodson & Horrell Limited.....................................27 Equetech...............................................................6 EquiAmi..............................................................41 Faulks & Cox Ltd..................................................19 Finest Brands International...................................33 Jenkinsons...........................................................25 Life Data Labs Inc................................................22 Lillidale Animal Health.........................................21 Natural Animal Feeds........................................ OBC Charles Owen & Co (Bow) Ltd..............................31 Alan Paine...........................................................15 Saracen Horse Feeds............................................11 SEIB......................................................................5 Sherwood Forest................................................ IFC Shires Equestrian.................................................17 Snowhill Trade Saddlery......................................IBC Trilanco...............................................................13 Web Directory.....................................................46 Zebra Products....................................................42

www.equestriantradenews.com

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Retailers learn how Carl Hester feeds

Carl Hester shows Liebling his picture on the new packaging.

MORE than 30 guests from different retail businesses attended a training day hosted by Saracen Horse Feeds.

Highlights included a tour of dressage star and Saracen ambassador Carl Hester’s yard, an insight into his feeding regime plus an introduction to Saracen Veteran Mix and Cubes.

Delegates registered as Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs) picked up six CPD points thanks to a series of AMTRA accredited training modules.

Saracen commercial director Michael Bacon presented Maximising customer loyalty and maximising profits through horse feed sales and profits in-store, senior nutritionist and associate director Lizzie Drury covered Feeding The Performance Horse while marketing manager Claire Allmett addressed how social media can help in store sales.

During the day, Carl demonstrated how he works with his dressage horses. He used a four year old and Pro Set, a grand prix veteran still competing under working pupil Amy Woodhead.

The new Saracen Veteran ration packaging features Carl’s former international grand prix horses, the now retired Liebling and the late Dolendo.

“Our veteran horses continue to work as school masters for some of my pupils,” said Carl. “Working into retirement helps keep them fit, healthy and likely to stay sound and happy.

“Saracen Veteran Mix helps keep condition on our veterans as well as giving them the energy required for the level of work they do.”

Delegates also met Carl’s London Olympics team gold medal winning ride Uthopia as well as dressage superstar Valegro. The day also included lunch and a chance to network with the Saracen team.

Retailers with the teams from Saracen Horse Feeds and Carl Hester’s yard.

www.equestriantradenews.com

News

6

It’s a dog’s life…

THE annual charity initiative Take Your Dog to Work Day was supported by many canines (and their owners) in the trade.

Julia Hoult’s dog Sammy is a regular at D C Hoult’s workplace where pvc jump fillers and pole sleeves are produced. He likes nothing better than to get in on the act when photography is being done for the firm’s Jumpfillers website. “We recently held a competition offering customers 20% off if they managed to find the correct number of times Sammy was hiding in our photos,” said Julia. “It was a bit like ‘where’s Wally!’”

Pickle, a terrier cross owned by Jean Hammond, creator and owner of Golly Galoshes equine gaiters, loves nothing better than a game of ball in his lunch hour.

Time well spent…

Sue Bryant, of shirts brand Freddie Parker, had help from siblings Millie and Monty on Take Your Dog To Work Day. Although Millie (pictured) was happy to help with admin - “she’ll do anything for a biscuit,” says Sue – Monty was busy chasing pigeons outside.

Maisie proved to be a great little newshound in the EquiAds magazine office. The six year old Jack Russell, who belongs to EquiAds’ Stephanie Walker, is proudly showing off a front cover featuring Stephanie’s daughter Charlotte Walker jumping her horse Liath Capall at the Horse of the Year Show.

Outdoor brands unite CRAGHOPPERS has teamed up with mapping specialist Ordnance Survey (OS) to release a range of outdoor clothing.

The OS Collection, described as “active, fast and lightweight”, is designed for multi-activity use.

Products feature the OS logo on zip pulls and labelling.

Men’s and women’s ranges include technical jackets, soft shell trousers, jackets and fleeces. The collection will be available to consumers from next Spring.

“Our products reflect our passion for exploring the British Isles,” said Jim McNamara, managing director of Craghoppers.

On working with OS, he added: “We look forward to developing a long lasting partnership that brings new and exciting products for our customers as well as expanding our reach with such a wellknown brand.”

Alastair Tinker of OS, which has recently been rebranded, added: “This is a partnership that will benefit customers needing quality, reliable clothing for outdoor activities and provide increased visibility for OS.”

www.equestriantradenews.com

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OBITUARY Geoff Charley GEOFF Charley, the founder of Townfields Saddlers, died on 21 June. He was 75 and had been ill for some time.

Alongside his family, Geoff ran a successful retail operation for more than half a century. With a store near Coventry, Townfields Saddlers has become perhaps the bestknown tradestand name on the UK show circuit.

Geoff had been involved with gymkhanas and show jumping from a young age. He also enjoyed hunting, team chasing and point to pointing. He qualified for the Horse of the Year Show working hunter championships on several occasions.

Having set up a riding school, Geoff started selling second-hand saddles. The venture led to him and his wife Gill setting up what’s remained a family owned and run business, Townfields Saddlers.

Geoff could be found on his tradestand exhibiting at most of the big horse shows and events. Indeed, he had been a pioneering trader at several of them. As well as equestrian customers, Townfields also served the shooting community at fixtures such as the CLA Game Fair.

Badminton horse trials director Hugh Thomas was among those to paying tribute. “Geoff will be sadly missed by all the show organisers,” he said. “He was a real character who contributed hugely to the atmosphere in a successful tradestand village.”

Geoff leaves his wife Gill, their children Adrian and Sarah, Adrian’s wife Julie and four grandchildren Ben, William, Tom and Harry.

Sarah said of her father: “He built Townfields to what it is today because he loved horse sports and adored working alongside his family. In fact, spending time with family, especially his grandchildren, was one of his great loves, alongside fishing and shooting and being part of the equestrian fraternity.”

A private family funeral took place on 7 July followed by a service to celebrate Geoff’s life. Those who would like to make a donation in memory of Geoff can do so to the British Heart Foundation www.bhf.org.uk

OBITUARY Denise “Neecey” Welch NEECEY Welch, a popular figure at Ride & Drive Equestrian Supplies in Beccles, Suffolk, died suddenly on 6 June following a riding accident. She was 62.

Neecey had assisted the retail store’s proprietor Eva Kemplay for more than 50 years. She initially worked at Saddle Boutique which Eva opened in Lowestoft in 1964, then moved with the business when it relocated to a large barn conversion near Beccles in 2000 and became Ride & Drive Equestrian Supplies.

“Neecey was a wonderful worker who had an expert knowledge of horses, their needs and the needs of their riders and owners,” said Eva. “She lived for horses and was always keen to help people with theirs.”

A funeral was held on Friday, 10 July. Family flowers only were requested, with donations if desired to Redwings Horse Sanctuary (www.redwings.org.uk) and the Air Ambulance.

Neecey leaves her husband Michael, two daughters Teresa and Clare, and three grandchildren Jacob, Alexis and Lois.

www.equestriantradenews.com

News

2016

NEC, EC, Birmingham, UK 24-26 January www.beta-int.com

BETA International news…from ETN…official media partner… BETA International news…from ETN…official media partner…

Main Sponsor

Sponsors return for January’s show

BATTLES is returning as sponsor of BETA International’s visitor bags under its popular Hy brand for a second year.

“We were so delighted with our sponsorship experience in 2015 that we are keen to return and promote the Hy brand, with its great range of products for horse and rider,” said the wholesaler’s commercial manager Anna Clarke.

The sponsorship will see Hy-branded bags handed out to visitors on arrival at BETA International 2016.

Passion for fashion Meanwhile Ekkia is to support the Fashion Show for a third consecutive year. The catwalk show of equestrian and country clothing will be named after the French company’s Equi-Thème brand.

“It proves a highly effective way of presenting our EquiThème range to an international audience of industry buyers and makes our regular appearance in this extremely attractive and appealing feature even more special,” said Ekkia president Jean-François Vignion.

Hy and Ekkia join fellow sponsors Charles Owen, Shires Equestrian, The Wine & Hamper Company, Toggi and main sponsor Neue Schule.

Hotel deals on offer GREAT value deals in hotels close to the NEC are available via BETA International’s new official agent.

Worcester based Event Express can handle any accommodation sourcing and booking for 2016 trade fair visitors and exhibitors.

“As the show’s official accommodation agent, Event Express takes the hassle out of hotel booking and allows us to access great value deals in preferred locations close to the NEC,” said BETA International organiser Claire Thomas.

Event Express negotiates the best rates for individual reservations, with discounts of up to 50% off list prices. Find out more or book accommodation for BETA International 2016 at the Travel & Accommodation page on the show’s website www.beta-int.com

How to get involved • BETA International is the world’s leading equestrian, country clothing, outdoor and pet product trade exhibition. The 2016 show will take place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 24 to 26 January. For further information about exhibiting, contact James Palmer, telephone +44 (0)1937 582111 or email jamesp@beta-int.com • The only official preview of BETA International 2016 appears in the January issue of ETN. To find out more, contact Nicki Lewis on +44 (0)1937 582111 or email nickil@beta-int.com. ETN is the official media partner of BETA International.

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

8

Retailer has country’s best display

FOUR miniature Shetland ponies helped Scottish retailer Horse & Outdoor win a nationwide in-store display competition run by TopSpec.

The team at the Macmerry, Edinburgh based store created an eye-catching and informative equine weight watching themed area. Featuring TopSpec AntiLam, it was decorated with the feed company’s yellow and green colours.

“We spent a lot of time ensuring our display was one of the biggest and the best. We even got our miniature Shetland ponies in for the photo shoot,” said store manager Erin Archibald.

The competition that was judged by public vote. Horse & Outdoor won tickets to Horse of the Year Show and lunch with the store’s TopSpec equine advisor Suzi Law.

NEWS IN BRIEF • UK shoppers spend an average of £142 per month on “things they want”, according to new research by VoucherCodes. co.uk. And 25% of consumers are spending more on themselves now than they did five years ago.

• BETA is sponsoring the Equestrian Knowledge Zone at this year’s Westcountry Equine Fair at Westpoint, Exeter in December. Experts will be on hand to talk about safety, bitting and nutrition.

• HONEYCHOP is offering seven regional riders the chance to join its training academy. Prizes include branded clothing, a day at international show jumper Tim Page’s yard and a year’s supply of Honeychop. Leaflets are available for stockists to display in-store.

• ONLINE retail sales of non-food items in the UK grew by 17.6% during June this year compared with 2014. It’s the strongest percentage increase since last August. Such significant growth in online shopping highlights the need for skilled people to develop e-commerce operations, says Helen Dickinson of the British Retail Consortium.

• UK shoppers are the highest spenders on contactless payment cards. Across Europe, contactless spending soared to £1.1 billion in one month (March) alone, according to Visa Europe. The figure represents a three-fold increase compared with the same period in 2014. UK consumers spent £234m across 52.6 million contactless transactions in March. www.equestriantradenews.com

News Protecting the planet and pockets!

HI-VIZ specialist Equisafety is to a launch a new collection designed to protect your customers in more ways than one.

Its Eco range will be good for your customers’ pockets as well as the environment, says Nicky Fletcher who runs the company that won Dragons’ Den investment earlier this year.

Equisafety has joined the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI) and is using factories that are also members. As well as environmental considerations, the organisation also monitors workers’ welfare standards.

“I’ve been looking at different dyes and packaging that are more eco-friendly,” Nicky told ETN. “All in all, Equisafety is trying to become greener.”

When it comes to cost, the Eco range appeals to customers who have previously opted for workwear waistcoats instead of equestrian branded hi-viz. An example is an Equisafety Eco tabard, hat band and a pair of leg boots for £29.99 RRP. t Equisafety 0151 678 7182

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Retailer spreads a bit of equine welfare

Facebook to launch ‘buy now’ button FACEBOOK looks set to launch a direct shopping function.

The social media site has reportedly tested a ‘buy now’ button on some of the advertising it carries.

Allowing consumers to shop directly from a business’s Facebook page, rather than being directed to an e-commerce site, enables brands to convert reviews and discussion into sales.

Google has already announced a ‘buy’ button for its mobile search advertisements with Pinterest and Twitter also joining the trend for what’s being termed ‘social commerce’.

Barbaric thorn bits are swapped for kinder versions.

WEST Country retailer Equicraft of Backwell encourages its customers to donate unwanted bits. These are distributed by the Friends of Marwari and Katiwari Horses UK at fairs and horse shows in India.

Marwari and Katiwari are among the world’s oldest breeds of horse.

Noted for their inward curling ears, they’re used on occasions such as wedding parades and for light draught work.

Retail display inspiration FREE copies of a new retail display guide are available to the first 50 ETN readers who apply.

The Shop & Display Equipment Association’s (SDEA) latest directory is packed with innovative in-store merchandising ideas. More than 100 designers, manufacturers and suppliers of retail display products and services are listed too.

Articles take readers through some of the latest and greatest store launches.

There’s a minimalist London shoe store where jelly shoes are showcased within a gallery inspired interior, to a small fashion store in China and an art deco supermarket in France.

SDEA is a not for profit body supporting European retail display suppliers. Its directory is normally priced at £10. t To claim you free copy 01883 348911 AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

The bit swap volunteers were well received at the colourful horse fair.

Jane Atherton, managing director of Equicraft of Backwell, joined a group of volunteers from the charity visiting the Jodhpur region earlier this summer. They took 260 donated bits with them.

“The idea is to try and encourage the local people to stop using their barbaric ‘thorn’ bits and swap them for a kind, smooth one which equals a happy horse,” she explained.

“The first fair we went to was extremely rural with horses being paraded up and down a riverbed,” said Jane.

“They also had cows and camels; all the animals were dressed up in colours and bells. There were stalls selling bridles, saddles, brushes and bits - including some not very nice ones.

“We walked around exchanging bits and giving out health leaflets.

Giving bits to breeders and respected horse owners will hopefully set a standard for others to follow.”

Find out more at www.friendsofmarwari.org.uk/pages/page21.html

www.equestriantradenews.com

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

Product News Patented pressure relief

12 Going Dutch

WITH its patented design, the Original Pressure Relieving KB Bridle from Albion has proved hugely popular around the world.

Designed by dressage legend Klaus Balkenhol, the bridle minimises pressure, maximises comfort, aids willing submission and improves performance.

Various styles and sizes are offered to achieve the perfect fit and look for every customer’s horse.

The slip is positioned over the padded, cutaway headpiece to disperse poll pressure, while an oversized browband gives generous ear clearance and minimises nerve pressure. The comfort continues via a padded noseband.

Made from full grain bridle butts, it can be customised with Swarovski crystals, coloured patent leather or coloured calf. The possibilities are endless… t Albion Saddlemakers 01922 646210

Distributor cleans up WESTGATE EFI has taken on the Animology equine range.

Products include Muck Out Shampoo & Conditioner, Patch Work Stain Remover and Mane Tamed DeTangle Serum.

The wholesaler already distributes Animology Antibacterial Hand Gel and its pet grooming products. t Westgate EFI 01303 72277

Play your cards right

BANG On The Door greetings cards from Carrots are perfect for the pony-mad of all ages.

There are designs suitable for male and female recipients, and to suit various occasions from birthdays to ‘just to say’.

The RRP is £2 each. t Carrots 01245 445362 AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

DUTCH brand Horka’s Fall/Winter 2015/16 collection is ready for retailers to order.

With an emphasis on co-ordinating colours and comfort across the range for horse and rider, attention has been paid to affordability too.

Horka holds stock at its warehouse in the Netherlands, with fast delivery offered. t Horka 00 31 38 465 57 70

How to co-ordinate camo and coat colour CAMOUFLAGE is ‘in’ for autumn – so check out these new saddle cloths from HKM. They come in three camo colours.

Different camo colourways compliment various horses’ coat colours, say the experts at HKM UK. Camouflage blue is just right for grey horses, brown suits the chestnuts and grey provides the perfect match for black horses.

The Camouflage saddle cloth is made in 65% polyester and 35% cotton with a foam and wadding filling. It’s machine washable and can be tumble dried.

Dressage and general purpose styles are available at RRP £34.95. t HKM UK 01952 691784 www.equestriantradenews.com

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

Product News

14

Marking a sporting heritage

High fibre cubes on offer

ALAN Paine’s Spring/summer 2016 country wear collection features gents’ and ladies’ polo shirts, hoodies and rugby shirts – all sporting the historic Alan Paine crest.

And it’s a highly appropriate launch because, at one time, Alan Paine’s speciality was bespoke club coloured trim sweaters for sports teams.

Also new is the featherweight Durham jacket for gents and ladies. In cotton, it comes with a two-year guarantee.

Other highlights include the wool tweed Burford collection of tailored jackets and waistcoats with straight or pleated skirts in a choice of colourways.

Look out too for Alan Paine’s new Faversham cotton range of jeans, shorts and trousers in stone, khaki and beige. t Alan Paine 01623 522571

EQUERRY Horse Feeds is running a special offer on its High Fibre Cubes.

A £2 discount means each 20kg bag is retailing at just £6.95. The promotion runs until the end of September.

Equerry High Fibre Cubes are designed for horses and ponies at rest or in very light work. They’re non-heating and provide essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, plus a source of protein.

Cereal-grain free with low levels of sugar and starch, they can be soaked and used as a hay replacer for elderly horses with poor teeth. t Equerry Horse Feeds 01845 565640

15 Hairy happiness THESE greetings cards cum gifts celebrate British native pony breeds.

The featured ponies have ‘real’ manes and tails, while each card includes a fridge magnet rosette.

The cards are made in Britain, by hand, on recycled paper.

Priced to the trade at £1.67 each, with an RRP of £3.99, shipping to the UK is free on orders of 30 cards or more. t Your Gift Horse 01454 510102

Shopaholic’s delight MOORLAND Rider’s latest bag is 40cm x 40cm with a 12cm gusset – so it can carry lots of shopping.

With a ban on free plastic carrier bags due in England this October – and one already in force in Wales – more retailers are offering their customers reusable options.

In strong cotton, this particular horsey shopper looks set to last for years.

The RRP is £5. t Moorland Rider 01782 397796

For cool competitors

TWO show shirts have been added to The Mark Todd Collection.

DryFit Competition Shirts come in ladies’ and men’s styles. Both are made in Dry-tex sports fabric to keep the wearer cool, dry and comfortable by wicking moisture away from the body.

Stretch material allows the shirts to have a close-fitting design without restricting movement.

The men’s version comes in white with a shirt collar and button neck; the ladies’ top has a stand-up collar, diamante stud fastenings and comes in white, navy or raspberry. t Westgate EFI 01303 872277 www.equestriantradenews.com

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ETN Talks Horses

In the first of a new series, ETN chats to people in the trade about their horses.

Nicky Mackenzie icky.

marketing manager SEIB Insurance Broker

trick and N

Perfect Pa

How many horses do you have? I have four.

I’ve owned Harvey, who’s at least 30, for 20 years. He originally failed the vet but is still going! Then there’s Jonny; he’s the size of a block of flats and the others use him as a windbreak for protection from the elements.

Harvey and Jonny are retired.

Perfect Patrick, who’s been there, seen it and done it with great success, was given to me for his twilight years. Bertie, my youngster, is ridden by Alex Liddle, and hopefully will do Grassroots eventing.

What do you enjoy doing together? I potter around on Patrick; he’s one of those that you can pull out of the field and climb on. I’m enjoying watching Bertie grow into the horse I always had a suspicion he might be. The others are retired but I still spend time with them.

How often do you see your horses? Three of them are at home and I do them every day. These days, I’m a bit of a fair weather rider; but if I decide to go back to competing or hunting, then I’ll crack on. It’s an unfair ask if horse and rider aren’t fit enough.

Harvey, Nicky’s 30-plus year old chestnut, uses Jonny as a windbreak.

What’s your management mantra? Good management rather than gadgets. Forage, teeth and feet are my priorities, however old the horses are. I feed unlimited hay through the winter – and summer if there’s not enough grass. I don’t like them standing with nothing to chew on, that’s how they get ulcers. I don’t feed much hard food as they aren’t doing a lot of work but they have all the vitamins, minerals and salt they need.

Last winter I put tons of stone down along the fence lines. It was a good decision as they are hayed on the dry and aren’t standing in mud. It’s easier for me, and no mud fever has been the added bonus.

What are your top three equestrian products?

Good insurance for when things go wrong. It’s such a relief to be able to call the vet when they’re sick or injured knowing the bill will be paid. My horses are on different policies depending on where they are in their life cycles; SEIB Insurance Brokers protects all of them.

Fibre-Beet for keeping weight on the oldies, particularly in the winter. People always ask how I keep them looking so well and now my secret is out!

Fly masks to keep the sun out of the old horses’ eyes. In my opinion, this is more of an issue than flies. Oh, and a good hairnet; I can’t understand how people can ride with wispy bits in their face.

What are your equestrian ambitions? I’ve never been fiercely competitive but I like going out and about with the horses. I may hunt next season. I’d like to potter around at the back, so hopefully Bertie will have brakes…

I may even take up dressage for a bit of fun.

What do you love about having horses? Having a reason to get up and go out every day. Even when the weather is filthy and it’s the last thing in the world I want to do, I always feel happier for going to see them. I love the fact that they come when I call and whinny for their breakfast when I arrive at the yard. And of course when you sit on one, put your leg on, then it comes up in front, softens and comes into your hand – nothing can beat that feeling…

Nicky enjoys watching her young horse Bertie.

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

If you’d like to talk horses with ETN, please get in touch via editor@equestriantradenews.com www.equestriantradenews.com

17

People

•Chris Taylor is a vet who joined Virbac in 1998 and now works as the animal health company’s technical director. He’s also a judge for the 2015 Virbac Equine SQP of the Year. Chris is certainly well qualified for the job having until recently been an AMTRA examiner.

So what will he be looking for in potential winners of this year’s Virbac Equine SQP of the Year? “A basic knowledge of the Veterinary Medicines Regulations pertaining to the purchase and supply of medicines and a sound knowledge of the legislation regarding retail premises, storage of medicines, record keeping and the prescribing of medicines,” said Chris.

“In addition, we’re looking for an SQP who really knows their way around equine husbandry, particularly with respect to worms, worming and avoidance of wormer resistance. Above all, the SQP of the year must be a good communicator of core messages to their clients.”

Find out more about the Virbac Equine SQP of the Year at www.3dworming.co.uk •Claire Hayward has been promoted to product sales manager for the easi range of equine and poultry bedding. She’s worked for the Hadfield owned brand for seven years.

“I can’t wait to get stuck in and learn more about the business as well as continuing to maintain the fantastic relationships we have with our customers,” said Claire, who’s responsible for national sales of easibed and easichick.

www.equestriantradenews.com

•Natalie King has joined the sales and marketing team at Derriere Equestrian. This is Natalie’s first job since graduating in English from Bristol University of the West of England. She’s a keen rider and, of course, a fan of the equestrian underwear brand.

•Dawn Trundle from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk won the chance to present the famous Boomerang trophy to Trevor Breen who rode Loughnatousa WB to win the Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby.

“I had such a lovely day,” said Dawn. “Although I’ve watched the Derby on television, you don’t appreciate the size and impressiveness of the international arena until you’re there in person.”

She was joined by Lorraine Meadowcroft (right), CEO of online retailer and Hickstead Derby sponsor Equestrian. com.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

Special Report

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Top of the NOPS More than 100 delegates from the feed industry attended the fifth annual BETA Feed Industry Conference on 25 June.

Delegates at a packed BETA Feed Industry Conference.

A

lmost a year to the day since high profile morphine contamination rocked the industry, the principal focus was on NOPS*.

However following the recent publication of the BETA National Equestrian Survey, there was also a report on the equestrian market from Jon Downer of Two Circles Marketing Agency, co-author of the report.

This paper reminded us that most of the 944,000 horses kept in the UK are used for “social, domestic and pleasure” purposes, where all aspects of feed quality apply, not just those associated with prohibited substances.

The 2015 survey indicates a total spend on equine feed and supplements just short of £600m, up significantly from 2011 data. The report also shows a relatively consistent number of consumers in terms of horseowning households and horses in the UK. However with numbers of regular riders calculated to be down by 20% since the last survey, and the costs of

keeping a horse increasing, an industry focus on minimising high-profile feed or supplement doping cases in racing and competition is essential to keep the positive associations of our sport across the wider population.

The morning session of the conference focused on perspectives from organisations outside the feed industry, but whose actions help define our attitudes and action regarding NOPS. First up, Paul Graham, representing British Dressage and the BEF, outlined their disciplinary and testing procedures, and the key issues that arise.

He also quelled the oftcited rumour that dopetesting only takes place in the upper echelons of the sport, where in reality it takes place at all levels. At national levels, infringements are relatively rare, with ‘bute being the number one prohibited substance being found in post-competition samples.

If it does go wrong, having solicitor James Pheasant of Burges Salmon, and analyst and toxicologist Mark Dunnett of IEN on your side

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

would appear prudent.

They collectively shared key learnings from recent high profile doping cases.

With the responsible person (the rider) required to prove their innocence of any doping charge, Mr Pheasant eloquently described the essential actions in such cases. Firstly, to establish first how the substance got into the horse, and then argue that the responsible person did not bear fault. Easy to say but very difficult to achieve in practice.

Recent changes to the FEI doping rules, which the BEF follow in their entirety, mean that the no-fault, zeroban judgements achieved for Christine Yeoman and Jock Paget are unlikely to be achieved in the future however.

These papers served as a timely reminder to the audience that a failed dope test can be catastrophic to a rider, and could be likely to result in significant claims for damages against those found at fault. James Pheasant noted that riders

Zero-ban judgements achieved for [riders] Christine Yeoman and Jock Paget are unlikely to be achieved in the future. require support from the feed industry in terms of clear product labelling, and robust quality assurance, plus information and education in the complex area of quality and antidoping.

This was highlighted when Mark Dunnett reviewed several doping cases.

In each feed-related case reported, crosscontamination upstream in the supply chain was responsible for the presence of the prohibited substance.

Significant quality assurance and quality control activities, including regular supplier checks, audit and where necessary, education of suppliers’ personnel in relation to NOPS, are key responsibilities for any company holding out their product as suitable for use in competition and racing. www.equestriantradenews.com

19 samples.

These presentations together highlighted just how much a NOPS-certified company must do to ensure not only compliance to the UFAS /FEMAS BETA NOPS schemes, but also in ensuring appropriate due diligence is routinely carried out in the unfortunate event of a positive dope test being linked to its product.

The challenges of correctly risk assessing the supply chain within the BETA NOPS scheme were addressed in the afternoon session. Claire Williams of BETA announced two key sources of new information for members.

Firstly, formal BETA NOPS Scheme guidance notes will be produced, the supplier assurance section of which was available to delegates on the day; secondly, a database of historical NOPS positives will be available shortly.

Liz Bulbrook of Baileys Horse Feeds and Natalie Fallon of Dodson & Horrell provided insights for successful feed ingredient supplier risk assessment and assurance activities, based on this new NOPS scheme guidance, and on their own experiences in feed and herb procurement. This was a valuable session that provided members with some of the right questions to ask their suppliers in defining any NOPS risk.

A thought-provoking and informative day was eloquently summarised

by Robert Clegg of Mars Horsecare UK, who remarked: “I found the conference highly informative and appreciated the focus on NOPS from the array of knowledgeable speakers.

“Managing and mitigating NOPS risk continues to be a key issue for the industry and the conference was successful in highlighting the necessary actions we all need to take.”

Riders require support from the feed industry in terms of clear product labelling, and robust quality assurance.

Ironically, these areas were the principal areas of non-conformance seen at audit reported by Lorraine Chambers of BETA NOPS Scheme auditors, KIWA PAI. Including NOPS in the HACCP risk assessment of feed ingredients, supplier approval procedures and staff training were all highlighted as the most frequent areas for further work required.

Lorraine also observed that PAI would expect that NOPScertified companies would have reviewed their HACCP plans and supplier approval schemes as a matter of course following last year’s morphine positives.

There’s no greater supply chain risk than morphine contamination. Conference delegates gained an insight into the growing of morphine poppies by Hamish Stewart of Macfarlan Smith, the company responsible for the growing and processing poppies for morphine production.

Details of the scale of the operations in the UK and Europe, and on-farm protocols used to minimise cross-contamination gave the audience a greater understanding of the nature of the risks this material poses in the feed supply chain. On-farm crosscontamination remains a risk, despite Mr Stewart’s assertion that the poppy seeds do not contain morphine. BETA members’ experience is that the seeds are a source of morphine, via physical contamination when inside the morphinecontaining seed capsule.

This further indicated the different perspectives here – “no morphine” to the morphine extractor is measured in terms of percent content, but does not acknowledge that there may still be nanogrammes present that may be recovered in feed or urine

*The BETA NOPS assurance scheme works to reduce the risk of naturally occurring prohibited substances (NOPS) in equine feeds. For more information visit www.beta-uk.org or telephone the BETA office 01937 587062.

www.equestriantradenews.com

Summer Horsecare

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SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL Summer should be the easiest time to keep horses, unless they’re affected by allergies, itching and too much sun. ETN vet Tom Beech highlights ways to overcome seasonal stresses.

DEHYDRATION is more common than many owners realise. Stocking a choice of water containers, troughs, buckets and bowls will help your customers ensure their horses always have access to fresh water. Photo courtesy of World Horse Welfare; the charity is urging anyone transporting horses to take steps to prevent dehydration. The full guidelines can be downloaded from www.worldhorsewelfare.org/guidance

I

t’s the season of allergies, and for some horses it can be terrible.

By far and away the most common problems I’ve seen this season have been respiratory allergies. In particular, SPAOPD (Summer Pasture-Associated Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder).

This is basically like a summer form of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)/ RAO (Recurrent Airway Obstruction). The latter two (COPD/RAO) are associated with stabling due to the dust and allergens that are breathed in and are therefore an issue in winter.

SPAOPD has very similar signs but it’s caused by the allergens that are encountered while outside rather than those when stabled.

PRODUCT FOCUS ELECTRO Salts is a palatable, fine crystal combination of the four essential plasma salts. They can be fed following hard work, travelling or regularly during hot weather. t NAF 01600 710726

Causes of SPAOPD The main allergens are pollens from flowers and other plants. It can also be brought on by dust, chemical sprays from agriculture and even pollutants from being near roads.

However, pollens are by far and away the most common instigators. Some of the key players this year seem to be oil seed, grass and hawthorn; but each area may be different.

PRODUCT FOCUS LOVE the SKIN he’s in D-Itch Supplement provides naturally sourced antioxidants to flush out free radicals associated with itchy, irritated skin. Additional topical support is available from D-Itch Ointment, a nourishing preparation to help comfort areas of broken, angry skin. t NAF 01600 710726 Continued on page 22

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

Summer Horsecare

PRODUCT FOCUS WHEN speed counts, powerful Respirator Boost provides a blend of nutrients to support respiratory immunity and clear the way for optimal lung function. t NAF 01600 710726 • Editor’s note: While riding a friend’s horse over three days recently, the temperatures soared and the air was heavy with pollen. However, I was amazed to witness how the mare’s noisy blowing and intermittent sneezing turned into completely clear breathing within 48 hours. I asked for the secret… “NAF Respirator Boost, it works every time,” was the reply.

Symptoms The symptoms are identical to COPD/RAO in that the horse will struggle to breathe as the allergic reaction tightens their airways.

This will be seen as an increased respiratory rate, wheezing and often flared nostrils.

In most cases there will be a slight rattle to the breathing as inflammatory fluid fills part of the lungs. As you can imagine, this can be quite distressing for both the horse and the owner. Some of the other symptoms will involve a cough and also a runny nose.

Diagnosis If your customers spot the symptoms early, it’s always wise to contact their vet to administer treatment quickly and prevent the condition worsening.

Diagnosis can be made purely on examination as the clinical signs are indicative of SPAOPD. In some cases, vets may use endoscopy to confirm their diagnosis.

22 Treatment This takes a two pronged approach of management and medication.

The former is most important long term but can be incredibly frustrating.

For a start, isolating the source of the particular allergen can be very hard. In some cases, it can be a single plant but in others it can be a combination of pollens that are producing this reaction.

Therefore keeping the horse away from the problem plant can be very tricky.

In addition, some horses will have problems each year while others will only have an issue once, if ever. In the latter cases, it could be that certain conditions must be met to allow the disorder to occur.

Many owners try and stable their horses away from the pasture during the day and let them out at night. This is in the hope that

PRODUCT FOCUS NEW Citrus Wash from Barrier Animal Healthcare includes citronella, chamomile, aloe vera and avocado. The non-rinse, fresh and zesty body wash has soothing antiseptic properties to cleanse the skin.

Five litre and 500ml sizes are available. t Barrier Animal Healthcare 01953 456363

as the sun goes down the pollen levels will drop and so allow the horse some respite.

In some severe cases the entire field has been out of bounds for as long as the pollen is present. Some owners have found that pollen masks can work well in mild cases.

The main form of medication is a steroid. This is either administered by injection, orally or even by nasal spray. However, caution is needed here due to the strong relationship between steroid and laminitis.

With this in mind the veterinary surgeon will have to make the decision on the best course of action. If due care and attention is made throughout the therapy then steroid can be used in most cases.

Other medications involve treatment of the airways with dilators (to open the airways) and other drugs to clear the airways of the mucus that builds up due to the inflammation. These two types of drug can also be given in powder form and so are quite useful for longer term management.

There have been anecdotal reports that the use of the sweet itch medication can help SPAOPD long term due to its anti-histamine type properties.

PRODUCT FOCUS NAF OFF Deet Power offers powerful, long lasting protection against flies, horseflies and insect menace. t NAF 01600 710726

Other allergies Buttercups – These cause blistering around the muzzle that can be quite sore. It’s often a good thing to get paddocks sprayed for them if equine occupants react badly. However, then advice with regards to leaving livestock off the land after spraying must be observed.

Flies – These can be a nightmare for many horses; indeed, some Continued on page 24

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

Summer Horsecare

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PRODUCT FOCUS SUPER Plus Fly Repellent is Barrier Animal Healthcare’s number one seller in this category. It repels the larger biting insects and includes avocado oil to nourish dry, flaky skin. It can be applied to sore areas to help soothe and protect against the effects of midge bite, although Enhanced Formula Fly Repellent from the same supplier includes more ingredients known for their antiseptic properties. t Barrier Animal Healthcare 01953 456363 horses seem to attract them more than others. It can be quite distressing for some horses if they cannot get away from the flies.

If there’s no shelter available then a fly mask or fly rug is a good idea.

Some horsefly bites can lead to infection so it’s important to keep them away. Owners should also look out for any areas on their horses that seem to get warm and inflamed. In these cases a course of antibiotics may be necessary to nip the infection in the bud.

Retailers can help owners find the right fly repellent for their horses. Some formulae don’t seem to be compatible - or seem more or less effective - when applied to different horses. With this in mind, offer different brands so that owners can find one that works for their horses.

On another note, fly protection is important to reduce the risk of contracting sarcoids. These are usually transmitted by fly bites on the thinner, delicate skin of the groin/teats/sheath as well as the ‘armpits’ and ears. These, therefore, are key areas to apply fly repellent and keep it topped-up. [this word in bold] Sweet Itch – While there were reduced cases of this condition earlier this year, I was expecting more as the weather became ‘better’ for the midges that cause it. With this in mind, owners should pre-empt any annual problem by starting relevant treatment and management early to allow a systemic build up.

Headshaking – this is a massive topic in its own right but here we will talk about seasonal headshaking. As the name suggests, it happens usually at this time of year with the presence of pollens and dust.

The area that becomes irritated is thought to be a nerve in the head that deals with most of the skin and membranes of the head. When this becomes aggravated by pollens then it can bring about the signs of headshaking. When the symptoms are mild and only occur during the same season, then owners can often manage the horse in a similar way to SPAOPD. That is, keep it away from the pasture that may be producing the pollens and thereby reduce inflammation of the nerve.

Severe cases can occur all year round and can badly affect some horses’ welfare. It’s important to get a proper diagnosis from a vet with whom your customers can then discuss management changes. In some cases a multi-facetted approach using alternative therapies such as osteopathy, acupuncture and homeopathy work well alongside the normal veterinary treatment.

Some horsefly bites can lead to infection so it’s important to keep them away.

Other season ailments Sunburn – This is something that mainly affects pink-fleshed horses, especially on their muzzles and ears. In some cases it can cause very nasty wounds that need medical attention.

Liberal sun cream should be applied to susceptible horses when they’re out in the sun; but in really hot weather they may need shelter until the evening.

Dehydration – This is far more common than you may expect.

It’s obviously caused by a lack of water - but it can result from www.equestriantradenews.com

25

PRODUCT FOCUS

THE Z-itch Sweet Itch Rug with hood provides a barrier between the horse and biting midges. Made from soft, tightly woven yet breathable material, it has elastic edges for a close fit around the tops of the legs. There’s a large tail flap plus belly and neck sections too. This rug also helps reduce UV damage. In sizes 4’9” to 7’, the RRP is £80. t Trilanco 01253 888188

either not enough available in the field/stable or even not enough during/after exercise.

It’s vital to ensure a horse has enough fresh water available at all times. As the temperature rises, it’s important to check buckets and troughs regularly. Sometimes horses can tip them over or there can be problems with the supply.

Stabled horses with drinkers need especially careful watching.

While preventing wastage of water, these little receptacles can block or simply not allow the horse enough water.

Horses require water before and after exercise - and during exercise if it’s prolonged.

A quick and easy check for dehydration is the ‘pinch test’. This is whereby the skin on the neck is pinched and the time at which it recoils back to normal is monitored. Ideally it should spring back immediately. The longer it takes to return to normal the more dehydrated the horse is.

A severely dehydrated horse needs more than just oral fluids and may require an intravenous drip set up by a vet.

PRODUCT FOCUS SAFE-CARE Equine Fly Spray features lemon, tea-tree and cedar wood. Gentle on the skin and harsh on flies, it’s HSE (Health & Safety Executive) licensed and said to last for 72 hours. Four trigger pulls cover a square metre of equine coat.

750ml has an RRP of £9.99. t Safe-Care Equine 01294 832529

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

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

Retailer Profile

26

Creating a horsey boutique Newly opened Westleigh’s Saddlery and Country Clothing offers a luxury shopping experience for well-heeled competition riders. Deborah Hayward pays it a visit.

Friends Gemma Keeling (left) and Vicki Clark left their careers to open Westleigh’s Saddlery and Country Clothing store.

T

he launch of Westleigh’s Saddlery and Country Clothing store spells a significant career change for two friends.

Midwifery nurse Vicki Clark and beauty therapist Gemma Keeling turned their backs on their regular jobs to set up a boutique tack shop in Ramsden Bellhouse, outside Billericay, in Essex.

“I was fed up with the changes in the NHS and didn’t like the way that things were being run, so it was a good time to leave,” explains Vicki. “Up until now, horses have always been my hobby, but I always wanted to have my own business. Not being bossed around by anybody is the best thing about it!”

Westleigh’s – named after the Hanoverian mare that Vicki lost two years ago – is housed in a restored, feather-boarded former coach lodge at a working arable farm that is home to Gemma and her family.

“We’re in a great location, with a main road at the front and a rural area behind,” Gemma points out. “There are a number of riding schools around here, lots of houses with horses in their back gardens and plenty of

competition riders, who are our target market.”

The store, opened by international dressage rider Alex Hardwick last month, was ten months in the making. Both families put in long hours to transform the once-redundant agricultural building into a swish, bijou equestrian retail outlet with wallpapered interiors, fitting rooms and top-of-the-range stock such as Kingsland, Pikeur, Equiline, Samshield hats, DeNiro, Anky, Schockemöhle and Dubarry.

“We wanted a shop that looked as expensive as the stuff that

we were selling in it,” explains Gemma.

“It was a real team effort to get ready for the big day,” says Vicki.

“We were working until midnight most nights and we couldn’t have done it without all our families and friends. They even came to a tagging party to help us tag everything.

“Then they were there to support us at the actual opening, running a raffle and handing out glasses of Prosecco.”

About 400 people popped in to check out Westleigh’s Saddlery on its opening day, with some tremendous support from the trade. “Belstane and Seeland donated some great prizes for the raffle and we had reps from DeNiro, Protexin, Samshield, Equine America, KM Elite, Allen & Page, Baileys and Dengie who came along to chat to customers,” says Vicki.

“We also had a catering van selling burgers and hot dogs. This was so popular that we have just arranged for it to be sited outside the shop permanently, as I think it will help to bring customers in.”

The launch proved an emotional time for the two women and Gemma confesses to being overwhelmed in the minutes before the ribbon was cut. “I burst into tears just before we opened,” she confesses. “We

had fought so hard to get where we were and, when the day arrived, I felt so emotional.

“All the sheer hard work, from getting the building together to buying in stock, has been crazy and we really had to hang in there to get what we wanted.

“Some companies wouldn’t supply us because of our proximity to a large saddlery shop in the area, but we are not interested in competing. We feel there is enough distance between us and we are keen to stock what they don’t offer.”

Vicki and Gemma are confident that their business will continue to grow and believe the store is responding to local demand for up-market gear.

“We are concentrating on products and garments that riders round here can’t get,” says Vicki.

“I am a dressage rider and know from my own experience that I have to wait for Hickstead or Burghley to find what I’m looking for – or I can shop online.

“We set up Westleigh’s so that people don’t have to do that.

Buying online is OK, but you can’t see what you’re really getting and you can’t try it on.”

In addition to equestrian brands, a range of dog collars, leads and accessories is available – often modelled by Vicki’s two French bulldogs, Lenny and Lola –

“We’re in a great location, with a main road at the front and a rural area behind,” says Gemma. (Photo: hardingsphotography.co.uk)

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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27 as well as shooting gear.

“My husband runs a shoot from here, so we thought it was a good idea to stock for this market,” explains Gemma. “We have a small collection of garments at the moment, from Seeland and Harkila but, once the season kicks in come September, we will be extending the range to include Alan Paine and I will also offer cartridges.”

The saddlery has two additional buildings for storing saddlery and yard equipment, feed and bedding. Customers are invited to pull up in the parking area, where heavy bales can be loaded into

their cars.

It is still early days for Westleigh’s and Vicki and Gemma are working long, hard hours, but they are determined to ensure that their business venture works.

“We are putting our all into this and, if one of us is having a tough time, the other stays strong,” says Gemma. “We both believe that being friendly and helpful, and offering good customer service and great products at a competitive price, will make Westleigh’s successful.”

Last month’s opening day attracted about 400 customers.

(Photo: hardingsphotography.co.uk)

ETN asks Vicki and Gemma Do you both ride and own horses?

Vicki: I’ve had horses since I was a child. I currently compete for the Eastern Region Dressage team on my horse, Jack, a black 17.3hh Dutch warmblood.

Gemma: I don’t come from an equestrian background and haven’t sat on a horse since I was 13.

What add-on product lines do you stock?

We have some lovely horsehair bracelets and key rings, and stable name plaques, and offer an embroidery service.

Where did you source your garments and equipment from when setting up the business?

We spent two days at BETA International and have been invited to some company roadshows.

What was the response from customers on your open day?

They loved the store and we took loads of orders for DeNiro made-to-measure boots, our Equiline range went really well and we sold lots of John Whitaker breeches.

Have you done any safety garment fitting courses?

We have had some training from Samshield hats but plan to take a fitting course when the whole EN1384 situation [the now defunct European standard] has been sorted.

What plans do you have for the future?

We would like to establish a customer loyalty scheme and offer goods online through our website. However, we need to get the shop running really well, as we’re still in the early days. We also have plenty of space to expand should we need to.

www.equestriantradenews.com

British Companies

28

Taking the right fork…

For 30 years, Fynalite has made stable tools in its West Midlands factory.

Liz Benwell finds out what it takes to be a committed British manufacturer.

Best of British manufacturing skills: Phil Pitt welding in Fynalite’s factory.

P

icture the scene. A little girl who’s visiting Your Horse Live with her parents calls at a stand displaying mucking out forks. Pointing to a blue and yellow one, she stamps her foot and announces loudly: “That should be pink.”

Having overheard this gem of consumer research, the company’s boss falls out of bed next morning and heads straight for his factory. He asks his production team to make a pink stable fork; it’s whisked to a tackshop and within days the little girl’s wish is magically granted.

But this is no fairy story; it’s a true tale of how a British manufacturer can come up with the goods no-one else can.

Speed of delivery and rapid reaction to customers’ needs and wants are only one reason why Fynalite remains steadfastly a British manufacturer, however.

“I like and care about the people in the factory – and I’m proud of every fork we make,” says managing director (and that boss) Leon Fynn. “And it’s a nice feeling to know that because everything is made here, we can keep an eye on

quality.”

Based near Redditch, Fynalite is powered by British engineering. “The people with specialised skills are all here on our doorstep in the Black Country and that enables us to work on new ideas. If we can’t do something ourselves, someone up the road can,” added Leon.

“If I went abroad, I’d be straight up against a language barrier and a skills problem.”

Ten people are employed at Fynalite. The company’s speciality is working with steel, something it does for other firms too.

The steel heads of all its stable, field work and gardening implements are made here from start to finish.

Tines for stable forks arrive as coils of wire weighing up to 400kg which are cut, straightened and shaped in the factory. Some processes, such as making wooden handles and painting, are contracted out locally.

has made a study of choosing the most suitable wood for said component.

“Ash is best for forks as it has a long, concise grain which allows for flexibility yet makes it strong,” Leon explained.

“Hickory is best for striking tools [such as hammers] as it’s hard, with a short grain.”

Hearing him talk about working in metal and wood highlights how little the ingredients for good quality tools have changed over the centuries. “It’s what you see when you visit National Trust properties where they have old gardening tools,” said Leon, hinting that no potting shed is left unturned in Fynalite’s quest for perfection.

But surely the cost of manufacturing in Britain is an ever increasingly burden?

“No, I’ve never been tempted to move the manufacturing abroad,” Leon concludes. “I like that we can try out different designs, colours and presentations and get it right – rather than waiting for the container to come in and hoping we’ve got it right.”

From motorbikes to mucking out tools The company name Fynalite was dreamt up over the Fynn family’s Sunday lunch table

more than three decades ago.

George Fynn, an Australian, originally came to Britain to ride speedway motorbikes.

During the Second World War, his military duties included welding American landing craft. By the late 1940s, he’d opened a motorcycle factory near Walsall building speedway racing bikes. It was the fore-runner of Fynalite where George, now 93, still comes to work most days.

The stable tools side of Fyna-Lite’s business began in 1985, inspired by the family’s enthusiasm for horses and showjumping. “At the time, there just weren’t any mucking out tools around that were any good,” is Leon’s recollection.

Leon’s sister Yvette was a successful international junior rider. Among her contemporaries was Michael Jones (Nick Skelton’s half brother), the two families becoming friends as they travelled the show circuit together.

Michael remains an honorary part of the Fynalite team, testing products and even appearing in its catalogue – along with his son Charlie. The products are also tested on the yard run by National Hunt trainer Dan Skelton [Nick’s son].

Leon was still at school when

‘Four candles’ Thanks to the late comedian Ronnie Barker, ‘fork handles’ [four candles] became a national catch-phrase. The team at Fynalite, meanwhile,

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

George Fynn’s motorbikes were ridden by world champions and are now collectors’ items. George invented and patented a special type of fork for the front wheel that made the bikes more controllable. Part of that process is still used by Fynalite today – for the tube where the handle fixes onto the main part of its shavings forks.

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29 he started making sales calls “in the days before we dealt with the large wholesalers”.

He then went to university, coming back to work full time in the business in 1992.

“Dad was very clear about what would be involved.

The manufacturing side in particular is more of a passion than just a job.”

The science of stable forks “It’s perfectly fine for stable tools to be pink - but they mustn’t be comedy products,” says Leon. Clearly he’s mucked out a few stables in his time…

Even though Fyna-lite tools are unashamedly at the top end of the market, they’re still mostly retailing at under £40. Yet the thought, care and precision that goes into engineering them is truly impressive. No wonder the company has taken the precaution of protecting its intellectual property with design registration.

“When designing tools, it’s always a trade-off between weight and strength,” said Leon, acknowledging this is a particularly delicate balance when most consumers are female.

Each tool begins as a series of tooling sketches. Next a short run of prototypes is made for testing, first on the factory floor, then in various stable yards. “It’s important they’re tested to destruction by professionals and yet are easy and enjoyable for happy hackers to muck out with,” says Leon.

Some of the more innovative products take literally a feat of engineering to create. “I’m particularly proud of the Pellet Master,” says Leon of what’s believed to be the only fork designed especially for wood pellet bedding.

“Because the tines double back to contain the pellets, there’s lot of wire in each fork. So we had to use some really clever ideas to keep the weight down.”

Fynalite does just two shows a year – BETA International to talk to the trade and the consumer event Your Horse Live (YHL). “I do a great deal of product development at YHL,” said Leon.

“These are real people who have bought and use our tools, so it’s important to listen and tease out information from them.

Mostly they are only too glad www.equestriantradenews.com

With its saddle rack, bridle hooks, tack box holders and puncture proof wheels, this Tack Trolley is on every groom’s wish list.

Ideal for shows or on the yard, it’s fabricated in Fynalite’s factory for a strong, workmanlike finish.

Leon Fynn, pictured as another consignment leaves the factory, has never been tempted to move Fynalite’s manufacturing abroad.

to tell us when something is brilliant – or when it’s crap…

Sometimes they come and say one of our shavings forks is still going strong after 20 years.”

And does Leon have a top stable tools tip? “Yes, it really is worth cleaning them after use. It helps them last even longer.”

For the trade Fynalite products are distributed to the trade through wholesalers Battles, Westgate EFI and Trilanco, although some larger retail customers do deal with the company directly. Fynalite does not supply the public.

Wholesale availability means stockists can try one-offs of new lines, meet customer requirements quickly and save on delivery costs by adding Fynalite products to regular orders.

Display stands plus a range of tools are available as packages. Many stockists take advantage of these deals, topping up their displays via their wholesaler as items are sold.

“It’s important that tools are displayed safely,” said Leon.

“We wouldn’t want anyone poking their eye out on a fork tine, so our display stands are designed to position them high up.”

Another useful sales tool for retailers is Fynalite’s colourful, well-illustrated – but unpriced – catalogue. It’s a handy counter top guide to show to customers who are unsure what they need or for stockists who don’t wish to hold the full range. Again, wholesale availability makes it easy and quick to fulfil customer orders. t Fynalite 01789 764848

Fynalite has a fork for every type of equestrian bedding, including the now popular wood pellets.

Pellet Master is ingeniously engineered with rounded, spring steel wire tines that follow the contours of stable floors and maximise efficient clean/dirty bedding sorting.

The precisely balanced Pellet Master comes with a choice of handles and grips to suit all users.

Display stands and tools are available to retailers as packages.

The design registered Multi Weeda, with red, pink or blue head, is great for removing ragwort, but works well on dandelions, thistles and nettles too. A great choice for customers on organic grazing who don’t want to spray.

Fynalite’s new broom really does sweep clean!

The Sweepster has flexible polypropylene bristles with a movable ring to adjust their stiffness.

With an aluminium handle, it’s been thoroughly tested on the Fynalite factory floor as well as in amateur and professional stable yards.

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

British Companies

30

Rule Britannia!

The equestrian trade boasts more than its fair share of British manufacturers, as ETN discovers.

Champions of British manufacturing

Where manufacturing is alive and kicking

CARDIFF based Champion Manufacturing has made protective riding wear for nearly four decades.

Being the first to manufacturer riding hats to PAS 015 more than 20 years ago is just one reason why the brand is proud to be British, says Sarah-Jane Fedarb, managing director.

“Champion was founded in 1978 by our parents, John and British event rider Piggy French Bridget Ayres,” she added. chooses to wear the Champion “My sister Charlotte and I enjoy brand. carrying on the family business, and helping to keep riders safe.”

Supporting the British economy is important to Sarah-Jane too.

“Retaining production here in Britain means we’re providing jobs at home. Nearly 100 people are employed within Champion, Finest Brands International and Proline [Champion’s sister companies] in Britain and it’s gratifying to know that we’re doing our bit to keep Britain strong.”

Hands-on quality control is reason to keep production on UK soil. “Having the Champion factories in Britain allows us to operate a strict total quality management philosophy, and provides 100% confidence in the quality and performance of each and every product we sell,” says Sarah-Jane.

KEEPING British manufacturing alive for the equestrian, automotive, refrigeration, textile and fashion industries is Abbey England’s ethos.

Founded by Gerald Brown in 1982 and still family run, the company Abbey England’s foundry encompasses 181 has acquired and years of history. preserved various manufacturing businesses which date from much earlier.

Its foundry, for instance, encompasses 181 years of history.

But as Richard Brown, Gerald’s son explained, the years to come are equally important to the company.

“Abbey England is maintaining a heritage of industrial skills for the future to ensure that these precious links to our past aren’t lost forever,” he said.

“We employ apprentices in our foundry so that the older workforce can transfer their skills down to the younger generation.”

Much of what the company produces is for niche markets in the UK and overseas. As production manager, David Broome explained: “Loose pattern making [used for small quantities] allows smaller customers to take advantage of Abbey England’s ability to manufacture hardware in small scale runs, making the products affordable for first time buyers or perhaps those starting up a new business.”

ETN understands that Abbey is about to announce another acquisition shortly. It follows the purchase in 2009 of buckle maker B.B. Stanley Brothers of Walsall as well as Liston Locks.

Two subsequent acquisitions were Equus, which makes polymer products, in 2011; and Catras Abbey England serves the trade with workshop supplies and bits.

Leather which specialises in brass plaques in 2012.

In 2011, Gerald Brown’s outstanding contribution to the equestrian trade was marked with the BETA Lifetime Achievement Award. Abbey England is also a long-time exhibitor and former main sponsor of BETA International, as well as providing sponsorship for British equestrian sport. t Abbey England 01565 650343

A hat tested every day All Champion hats are batch tested by British Standards Institute (BSI); on average a Champion hat is independently tested every day of the year.

“We pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service and with production under our own control in Cardiff, we can manufacture and ship products within weeks, rather than the many months required by overseas manufacturers,” added Sarah-Jane.

But what about the perception that British made products are expensive?

“We’re able to sell a British made, PAS015 standard helmet such as the Junior Plus from as little as £52 retail, and the Flex-Air Body Protector from just £62,” said Sarah-Jane, debunking the myth.

Its British heritage also makes Champion a very close knit company.

Still family run – and with a dozen family members directly involved - many employees have more than 20 years’ service each. Some in Cardiff have been on board for over 30 years.

“We believe that our strong British base helps the entire team work together as one, for Champion’s continued development of safety wear and the comfort of knowing Champion offers retailer that we help to make riding safer,” training plus hat fitting services at major events said Sarah-Jane. such as Badminton. t Champion 0113 270 7000 AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

British Companies

32

Heritage with a modern twist IN 1911, a man by the name of Charles Owen started manufacturing helmets for the army in the east end of London.

More than a century later, Charles’ grandson Roy Burek Modern manufacturing: Roy Burek outside continues the Charles Owen’s modern factory. family tradition of innovating and manufacturing products for a safer world. But lots has happened in between…

In 1924, what had become Charles Owen & Co patented a means of improving the ventilation and fit of military helmets used in the tropics.

Next Charles Owen decided to expand beyond manufacturing army helmets. So in 1928 the first motorcycle helmet emerged from his London factory.

A decade later, Charles Owen took his first steps into the equestrian industry by developing a racing helmet for jockeys.

The winner of the 1938 Grand National wore the newly launched Charles Owen Jockey Helmet featuring a patented head fitting system.

The introduction of these early jockey helmets was said at reduce rider skull fractures by 50%, thanks to their hard shells. They were not nearly as effective at protecting against concussion, however.

Charles Owen has always been involved with helmet development. In 1953, when the first motorcycle helmet standard committee met, the company was represented. Indeed that year’s standard became the benchmark for many of today’s modern versions.

First jockey skull 1972 saw Charles Owen develop the first full facial motorcycle helmet that met the then British Standard. Although certified equestrian helmets were still relatively unknown at the time, Charles Owen also created the first British Kitemarked Jockey Skull.

A decade later in 1982, HM Queen Elizabeth II granted Charles Owen the Royal Warrant as protective headgear supplier to the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. It’s an honour the company still holds today.

In 1984, Charles Owen released the first dual standard equestrian helmet. The first triple standard helmet followed in 2001. By 2012, a helmet to meet all four international safety standards was launched.

Charles Owen expanded its portfolio in 1998 by introducing its first body protector. Today it also designs and manufactures Airowear body protectors.

Charles Owen continues to manufacture in the UK. Inside its modern factory in Wrexham, workers are organised into small teams that create the products from start to finish.

“Staying true to one’s traditional values and British heritage has been the secret of the company’s longevity, along with a bit hard work,” says managing director Roy Burek. t Charles Owen The way we were: An early Charles 01978 31777 Owen advertisement

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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33 Celebrating British wool NUUMED began over two decades ago when Ian Pocock designed the first of more than 40 styles of saddlepad for different activities.

Today, most of these styles are still made in the company’s Somerset factory.

Many Nuumed products use natural British wool. Among its advantages are that it doesn’t flatten during work, it absorbs up to Nuumed’s distinctive 30% of its weight in moisture before checkered label. feeling damp, it keeps horses cool in hot weather - and it’s surprisingly easy-care.

Nuumed can produce made-to-measure saddlepads and numnahs, and is the official supplier of saddlepads to the British Equestrian Team. t Nuumed 01458 210324

Fast and flexible NOTTINGHAMSHIRE based Harpley Equestrian has more than 20 years’ experience of UK manufacturing.

Its range of equine therapy items includes the Good Hood (pictured), plus wraps, hot/cold and magnetic therapy products, hairnets and bows.

“With a proven track record of efficient customer service, speedy delivery and a smile at the end of the phone, we have the flexibility to produce small or large quantities,” says founder Kath Harpley. t Harpley Equestrian 0115 9611537

Also made in Britain…

HORSLYX licks are manufactured in Wigton, Cumbria by Caltech. The company, part of the Carr’s Group plc, also makes Crystalyx agricultural licks.

VERDO Horse Bedding, a subsidiary of Verdo Renewables, has production plants in Andover, Hampshire and Grangemouth in Scotland. Each plant can produce around 55,000 tonnes of wood pellets per year from UK sourced virgin timber.

ANIMALIFE was created by British entrepreneur Ross Riley in 2005. Its debut products were Oxyshot and Vetrofen. These innovative, British-made formulations were quickly joined by more supplements including Animalife’s new Lifestage range.

THE Net Relief Muzzle Net, the product with which Equilibrium Products made its debut at BETA International 2001, is still made in Leicester.

NEDZ chopped straw bedding is sourced from British farms and manufactured in Warwickshire.

GOLLY Galoshes continues to make its equine gaiters in the UK. The range includes a patriotic style featuring union flag embroidery.

ROCKIES’ licks are made by Tithebarn in Cheshire, home to the best European salt beds.

FORMED in 1989, Barrier Animal Healthcare manufacturers its animal healthcare and hygiene products in Norfolk. Its 50 strong range is made from natural ingredients all harvested from sustainable resources. www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

British Companies

34

On a mission

BETA trade missions have helped develop export markets throughout Europe and the wider world.

Claire Williams, executive director of the British Equestrian Trade Association, explains how they work.

BRITISH BRANDED: Pictured on a BETA led export mission are, from left, Anna Wiltshire (Carrots), Rosie Pocock (Griffin NuuMed), Becky Godfrey-Faussett (Snuggy Hoods), Claire Williams (BETA), Peter Phillips (Abbey England), Chris Bradwell (Stubbs) and Andrew Fish (Griffin NuuMed). Chris Bradwell reports that Stubbs sent its first shipment to Australia in June as a direct result of joining BETA’s trade mission.

Q: What are the main benefits of attending an overseas show with BETA? A. BETA has considerable experience of overseas shows and global export markets. We can offer advice and support for companies seeking to develop their overseas markets and help them to secure funding through United Kingdom Trade & Investment (UKTI). BETA also offers extensive logistical support, as required.

Q: Why are British brands in demand throughout Europe?

A. British products enjoy a fantastic reputation and are highly regarded for their style, design, traditional values, safety and value for money. Our equestrian trade is also noted for its breadth of knowledge, skilled craftsmanship and cutting-edge research and development.

Q: Do you have to be a BETA member to become part of a trade mission group?

A. No, non-member delegates and BETA members are all welcome. Companies of any size, whether a manufacturer, distributor or retailer, are all eligible. Anyone wishing to find out more or seeking to book a place should contact the BETA office to register their interest. If you wish to proceed, you will be asked to complete a Tradeshow Access Programme application form.

Q. Does every delegate receive funding?

A. As a UK Trade & Investment-approved trade organisation and recently appointed Trade Challenge Partner, BETA can provide export funding for eligible companies seeking to attend as part of the BETA party. Flat grants, ranging from £1,500 to £2,500, are available depending on the country visited and whether it is a company’s first time as an exhibitor at a show.

To be eligible for a grant, a company must be new to exporting. This means that in the past 12 months less than 10% of turnover has resulted from proactive exports, such AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

as sales to new overseas customers that have been actively identified by the company, or no more than 25% turnover resulting from proactive and reactive exports.

The latter usually consists of unplanned approaches by overseas companies.

Further details on eligibility are available from BETA. Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and applications must be submitted a minimum of two months prior to the show. In some cases, however, funding can run out well before this deadline.

Grants ranging from £1,500 to £2,500 are available.

Q. How can you help a company that wants a presence at a show but cannot attend?

A. We can represent those unable to attend by promoting their products and literature on the BETA tradestand and providing information and contacts on a company’s behalf. This is a tremendous service for companies and costs from £50 for a display of literature.

Q. Does BETA offer a translation service?

A. Although BETA doesn’t provide a formal translation service itself, we are well placed to recommend companies that do.

We always ensure that we have someone available on site who speaks the local language should a translator be required on one of our delegates’ stands, although we do advise that it is necessary for each company to have one.

Q. What trade missions to European shows do you have planned for this year?

A. BETA is planning a trade delegation to Spoga Horse, which takes place in Cologne from 30 August to 1 September. t BETA 01937 587062 www.equestriantradenews.com

35

BETA Members’ Page

BETA’s 10th anniversary celebration at Gatcombe

Digital success LAST month’s BETA digital marketing and social media course proved another hit, with full attendance on both days. Another will take place on 20 and 21 October at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, at a cost of £200 plus VAT for BETA members and £300 plus VAT for non-members.

Individual days can be booked at £120 plus VAT for BETA members and £180 plus VAT for non-members.

Save the date!

THE BETA AGM and Conference will take place at Whittlebury Hall, Towcester, Northamptonshire, on Monday 2 November. The theme of this year’s event will be participation and the future of equestrian sport.

There are high hopes that the BETA snap or selfie social media competition will prove as popular as it did at Bramham, where Becky Jackson-Colwill picked up the winner’s shopping voucher.

W

e’re really looking forward to the Festival of British Eventing, at Gatcombe Park from 7 to 9 August, when we will be celebrating our 10th anniversary as presenting sponsor.

To mark this very special occasion, we will be giving a BETA clock to all competitors taking part in the British Championships (Novice, Intermediate and Advanced) while the highest-placed competitor who completes the British Open for the first time will receive the BETA Anniversary Trophy, an award that will continue to be presented each year.

The trade association is also supporting the Pony Club Team Show Jumping, where all riders will receive a BETA stable plaque to commemorate their participation and those taking part in the Pony Club Mounted Games will be given a BETA hoof pick with a voucher that can be exchanged for a goody bag at the BETA stand.

Following hot on the heels of our successful social media competition at Bramham, we will be rolling out this winning formula for Gatcombe, with visitors invited to post their BETA-branded selfies or

photos on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram in return for the chance to win a £20 BETA shopping voucher.

We will also be unveiling some rather smart, limitededition BETA doggy bandanas so that our canine companions will not be left out.

In addition to these fantastic new features, you will find old favourites such as the BETA Luxury Prize Draw with £1,500 worth of equestrian goodies for horse and rider, and free hat and body protector checks with a discount voucher worth 10 per cent off the price of a new safety garment when bought from a participating BETA member retailer.

Then, there’s the opportunity to climb aboard BETA’s mechanical horses, RoboCob and Trigger – who will be fitted with a side-saddle – with the help of volunteers from The Brooke and the Side Saddle Association who will be collecting donations for the charity. We will also be signing up new members to the National Equestrian Research Panel.

We look forward to seeing you at Gatcombe – don’t forget to stop by at the BETA stand to say hello.

Eastern promise BETA will be at the China Horse Fair from 14 to 16 October on a trade mission to promote the exciting opportunities available in this rapidly developing market.

We have secured funding of £2,500 through UKTI for each company wishing to exhibit. BETA is planning a free seminar on China’s equestrian market later this month, so please keep an eye out for confirmation once the date is set. In the meantime, further details can be obtained from the BETA office.

Hats off to safety THIS is a last call for the BETA Safety Course for Riding Hat and Body Protector Fitting on 22 September at the Holiday Inn, Scotch Corner, in North Yorkshire. It costs £75 plus VAT for BETA members and £160 plus VAT for non-members.

The City & Guilds exam in Fitting Protective Rider Safety Equipment takes place the next day, 23 September, at the same venue for a fee of £150 plus VAT for the exam only or £195 plus VAT for the exam plus course.

BETA Snippets OUR regular e-newsletter, BETA Snippets, has met with a great response from members who have received it. If you haven’t seen a copy, it could be that someone else in your company is receiving it. So, if you would like to get your regular helping of the latest BETA news, send us your email address and we’ll add you to the distribution list.

For further information on any of the items mentioned here

CONTACT LAURA CLEGG AT BETA Tel: 01937 587062 Website: www.beta-uk.org

Email: laurac@beta-int.com

Stockeld Park, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS22 4AW www.equestriantradenews.com

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

Below the belt

36

Hidden secrets…

Claire Galer of underwear brand Derriere Equestrian wants retailers to talk to riders about their pants. It’s the best way to boost sales, she told ETN.

CO ST VE OR R Y

often sell well in pairs, so there’s good room for profit. So far, the feedback from stockists has been good.

This autumn, we’ll be hosting The Derriere Day. It’s a sales and marketing training day for retailers with speakers on topics from merchandising to social media marketing, plus lunch and a fashion show.

Claire Galer wants to remove any taboo around rider underwear.

D

erriere Equestrian really caught the eye on its debut at BETA International 2015…

It certainly did! We’ve now been trading for 11 months and dispatch to 90 retailers in 24 countries.

Who’s wearing Derriere?

Many riders across all the disciplines including product ambassador Carl Hester, eventers Jesse Campbell, Coral Keen and Ben Hobday, para-dressage’s Erin Orford and four teams from the UK, France and Finland in the 2015 Mongol Derby [a 1,000 mile race]. ETN’s front cover features more riders who compete in Derriere.

What’s the key to successful retailing of your products?

Face-to-face discussion with customers definitely works; as does enabling a consumer to see, touch, feel and learn about the product from the retail team. So good staff training is crucial.

Retailers who do well with Derriere display sample garments on mannequins - or what we call ‘bummakins’ - with PoS posters and leaflets helpfully close by.

Are customers shy about buying underwear?

The products are well presented and packaged for prominent display. Placing them next to the till is a mistake, however; underwear buyers like privacy.

This is again why staff training is so important and why in-store, person-to-person sales work well.

Until the advent of Derrieres, it was considered a bit un-British to talk about padded pants for riding. But once you get customers talking about them, they love them, buy them and want to talk some more!

How do you support Derriere stockists?

We offer product training, marketing support by providing video, graphics and images, instore promotions, PoS, a customer care line and stockists’ listing on our website. Derriere Equestrian staff can also support retailers with tradestands at shows and events if they wish.

We’re also mindful of making sure retailers and consumers are happy with trade prices and RRPs respectively. The products take up minimal store room space, and

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

Are there new products in the pipeline?

Yes! Riders kept asking us for total invisibility under even the most see-through breeches. So we’ve developed the Derriere nude colour option.

We’ve also been researching riders’ underwear preferences.

And while our padded pants remain incredibly popular, we discovered that some are at the other end of the spectrum... So this month sees the launch of the Derriere G-String.

And our really big news is the imminent arrival of The Derriere Sports Bra. The technology behind it matches that of Derriere underwear and its remit is the

ultimate in style, comfort and support.

Why has Derriere captured riders’ attention?

Finally there’s a solution to rider discomfort, chaffing and abrasions that’s based on a scientific approach yet is beautiful and fun. While researching Derriere, for instance, we conducted extensive pressure mapping to ensure riders are receiving the correct support when mounted.

We’ve also used high quality, wicking fabrics designed for sportswear. They conform to the skin and ensure no fabric movement occurs under the breeches. We chose the fabrics for their bacteriostatic properties and four-way stretch elasticity.

Overall, our goal is to remove the taboo around rider underwear.

And with feedback coming to us daily, we’re delighted to say that riders are more than OK to talk about their Derrieres now! t Derriere Equestrian 01386 853039

Derriere Equestrian kept the audience captivated during the BETA International fashion show.

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37

Doing the legwork ETN brings you the best in boots and breeches from leading suppliers.

Top performers NEW Whitaker full seat breeches (RRP £70) from John Whitaker International have attractive dual colour stitching.

Other features include back pocket with press studs, silver buttons and white Whitaker embroidery along the leg and pocket. With a full Clarino seat – plus a self-seat option – colour choices are white, navy, green and grey.

Stylish Bit Detail breeches (RRP £75) feature sparkly diamante around the waistband and above the

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two front pockets. Contrast stitching creates decorative Ws across the back pockets.

With a full seat, reinforced knee patches, stretchy ankle panels and two front pockets, they come in navy or white.

Under the Brogini label, these Trivolo zip fronted paddock boots (RRP £38.50) are made in fine leather.

The anti-slip rubber sole is hardwearing; while elasticated side panels make them easy to put on and take off. They come in black or brown. t John Whitaker International 01706 340500

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

Below the belt

38

Two boots in one

Made for riding

VEREDUS’ latest riding boots and mini chaps boast a yin and yang system of two boots in one.

Armonia short boots and Accordo chaps can be connected by simple hooks to form a tall boot.

Both components are made in fine leather, the Armonia having a shock absorbing sole, anti-twist system and heatregulating insulation. In black and a range of sizes, the boots retail at £220 and the Accordo chaps at £170. t Zebra Products 01352 763350

THIS year has seen Toggi launch new designs in breeches and boots to suit competitive and leisure riders alike.

Firle breeches incorporate stretch side panels for a superb fit. Featuring the same stretch panel at the ankles, they’re easy to remove and comfortable under riding boots.

In black or pewter, RRPs are from £45.

Striking Eridge two tone jodhpurs are super stretchy and made from hardwearing fabric for great shape retention. With a contrast colour seat, they come in cabernet/navy or black/slate – with RRPs from just £35.

A full stretch, simulated leather seat makes Somerford jodhpurs smart, comfortable and gives great grip in the saddle.

Durable body fabric ensures they perform well around the yard, while nickel free fastenings and two YKK zip pockets complete the spec. In blue denim, they have an RRP from £50.

New boots include Quartz, a full length, oily nubuck leather riding style in bitter chocolate. It sports an elasticised panel, medial suede panel with a full length YKK zip and dual density sole unit. The RRP is from £125.

For a traditional look, your customers will love the leather lined Cobalt with its square toe. With a full length YKK zip and removable, shock absorbing footbed, it comes in black with an RRP from £160. t Toggi 0113 270 7000

Foot perfect NEW waterproof leather boots have joined Westgate EFI’s Mark Todd collection for the autumn season.

There’s an updated version of the Mark Todd Country Boot.

Two additional full length boots are the pull-on Cromwell and stylish Tall Zip Boot.

The three-quarter length Adjustable Short Boot and Short Country Boot complete the line-up.

All feature a waterproof, breathable Sympatex lining and sturdy grip sole. t Westgate EFI 01303 872277

Flattering and fabulous FLEUR Breeches from Equetech have a pretty Fleurde-Lis diamonte scatter pattern on the jeans style back pocket.

They also offer front pockets, jet crystal rhinestone studs, contrast stretch suede seat, comfort waistband, reinforced seat seam and Lycra panels to the hem for minimal bulk.

In competition white or black denim, the RRP is £91.50. t Equetech 01296 688 966

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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39 Affordably stylish RHINEGOLD ladies’ and children’s Comfey Jods come in a soft fabric with a pull-on style.

There’s a plush, elasticated waistband with drawstring cord and toggles for waist adjustment, a front zipped pocket and back pocket with contrast trim and self-fabric knee patches. In navy/royal blue, trade prices are £14.90 for adults’ sizes and £13.90 for children’s sizes.

Rhinegold Crystal twin-stitched breeches sport belt loops, two front pockets and a press stud on the back pocket. They’re trimmed with clear crystals while contrasting white stitching detail adds a stylish twist to the full seat design.

Made in cotton/microfibre for comfort and good fit, they come in waist sizes 24” to 34” in white, black, red and navy with a trade price of £24.50.

Your customers can complete the look with Rhinegold Montana long leather boots. The trade price is just £49.50 and three leg widths are offered.

With elegant styling and front lace detail, the boots are shaped round the back of the knee. There’s also an extra soft leather insert here for freedom of movement and comfort. Perfect for everyday riding or competition, the Montana comes in black and sizes 3 to 8. t Snowhill Trade Saddlery 01243 672323

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Innovative construction NOBLE Outfitters’ Balance Riding Tight uses superior fabrics and innovative construction to make them perfect for everyday riding.

Moisture-wicking OptiDry technology pulls moisture away from the wearer’s skin while soft Toray ultra-suede knee patches create a secure feeling in the saddle.

A flattering euro-seat design and flat seam construction reduces chaffing. Lower leg bulk is reduced thanks to the lightweight, stretch hem.

A useful addition is a secure pocket at the front left thigh plus a hidden pocket on the inside back waist. In sizes extra small to extra large, and black or elmwood colourways, the RRP is £59.95. t Noble Outfitters 01572 772508

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

Legal Digest

40

No medals for getting this wrong…

With just 12 months until the Rio Olympics open on 5 August 2016, hopes are high for British equestrian success. But beware how you jump on the bandwagon, warns Ailsa Pemberton.

The buzz around London 2012 – where Britain won showjumping and dressage gold medals – was staggering. (Photos Kit Houghton)

W

hat better way to grab people’s attention than to take a ride on the back of the Olympic train?

Think of the excitement surrounding the 2012 Olympics. Having attended some of the events, I can tell you that the buzz around London was staggering.

Shops were full of merchandise and people flocked to get their hands on the memorabilia. But is all merchandise legitimate? Can businesses cash in on the hype unrestricted? Are there any ways to stop unofficial merchandise?

What about home-made banners, even decorated cup cakes? The answers to all of these questions lie within the scope of intellectual property law.

It’s a complex area of law and can catch many people unawares.

Knowledge of some of the basic principles and access to experts is well advised.

As Rio 2016 is just around the corner, let’s take a look at the Olympic logos. As I’m sure everyone is aware, the Olympic

rings, along with the flame and words such as ‘Olympic’, ‘Olympiad’ and ‘Paralympic’ are registered trademarks owned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the global organising body of the Olympics.

The marks are protected worldwide and are upheld by national committees.

In fact, any nation hosting the Olympic Games must themselves agree to and pass statutes designed to protect the trade marks.

OK, that’s great for lawyers, but what does it actually mean for you?

In an Olympic year, the question for most businesses is ‘Can I put the Olympic marks on my products?’

Admittedly, when the host country is your own, as in the last Olympics, the hype and potential for cashing in will be much higher but, generally, the Games generate excitement and Olympic branded goods are popular and in high demand.

So what restrictions are there on use?

The bottom line is that the Olympic

marks cannot be used without the IOC’s prior written consent. Even if permission to use is granted, there are stringent rules governing the visual representation of the marks, so that only authorised versions can be portrayed legitimately.

The real issue at hand is the prevention of unauthorised commercial use. Basically, using another’s successful brand for your own gain.

Generally, private or personal use of the marks is tolerated, but where a profit is being made, there’s a dedicated team of lawyers waiting to pounce. Even using a poster of a former Olympian could violate the marks, and that is before you even begin to consider the individual’s image rights and any copyright issues relating to the image.

So my best suggestion is to take care and, if in any doubt, either don’t do it or seek specialist advice.

About the author Ailsa Pemberton is a specialist intellectual property (IP) lawyer with 15 years’ experience. In addition to a science-based BSc and her legal qualifications, Ailsa holds a diploma in Intellectual Property Law and Practice from the University of Bristol.

Ailsa started out in the litigious side of IP – she was involved in several high profile cases, then moved more into the non-contentious side, focussing on the identification, protection and exploitation of IP. Ailsa assists in the commercialisation of IP AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

by drafting the legal agreements required such as licenses, assignments, confidentiality agreements, joint venture/R&D/collaboration agreements, etc. She offers an IP audit service where she reports on the IP being created, used and owned by an individual or business, and advises on how the IP could be used more effectively. You can contact Ailsa at apemberton@lawblacks.com tel 0113 227 9260 or via www.LawBlacks.com www.equestriantradenews.com

41

Bits & Training Aids

POLO PRECISION

Heavy-handed use of the reins will cause a pony to throw up his head and evade the bit.

I

t is said that there is a key to every pony’s mouth; meaning there is a bit out there that fits the pony perfectly.

That said, two different riders may require two different bits to get the best out of the same pony.

One rider may get the best out of a pony with a simple snaffle, while another rider may feel that this bit does not offer the optimum level of communication, and another bit is required.

When choosing a bit, look at what the people around you are using. If one player seems to have seamless connection with their pony and the pony is going well, relaxed, and there is good communication between the two, ask what bit that player is using, and why.

If at all possible, ride a high-goal pony: one who has been impeccably trained, to get a feeling of the level of communication obtainable if everything is working well. If you have reason to believe that one of the less common bits may help your situation, ask around to see if a fellow polo player, or even a rider from another discipline, has experience of such a bit and will let you try it (if it fits).

Here is a story from my own

Two polo ponies waiting for the game, showing different bitting. The pony on the left is wearing a snaffle with draw reins; the pony on the right is wearing a Pelham.

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experience to show how important the choice of correct bit can be. Once when I was playing in Chile, I had been riding the same little Criollo gelding the entire week and was in love. To this day, he is probably the best pony I’ve ever sat on.

He went in a simple snaffle with a metal curb with rollers and only one rein, but I felt as though I could place him on a penny.

The last game we played, the groom accidently put a Pelham in his mouth and we were instantly taken out of the game for the first chukka. All communication was lost, every time I touched the bit; it was too hard on him and he resisted instantly, offended by the pressure. But that taught me an extremely important lesson: a good pony can be ruined by the wrong bit. I wonder how many ponies would play better if only we used the right bit.

One point we must acknowledge is that polo requires repeated hard stops and turns. If the bit is severe or the hand is too harsh, the pony will find a way to evade the pressure of the bit. Many will do so either by lifting their head, slipping their tongue over the bit, grabbing the bit, or tucking their nose to their chest.

A very common evasion among polo ponies is to throw their head up, tighten down their back and

The number of polo clubs in the UK has doubled in the last decade, according to the sport’s governing body The Hurlingham Polo Association. In this extract from her new book The Complete Guide to Polo, Lauren Dibble looks at bit selection for this most demanding of disciplines. let their hind end drag out. A pony who stops with his head in the air over an extended period will start showing symptoms of a sore back…

There are three major types of bits used on the polo field: the simple gag and the double gag (from the family of snaffles), and curb bits. All bits that have movable parts next to the horse’s lips should have bit guards (sometimes called ‘biscuits’ in UK, or donuts in USA), to prevent the horse’s lips getting pinched during play.

Every bit, in the wrong hands, can be painful to the horse but, in the right hands, even the most severe bit can be a delicate tool.

The Complete Guide to Polo by Lauren Dibble is published by J.A. Allen Books. It runs to 144 pages and is fully illustrated. For more details, tel 0207 251 2661 or visit www.allenbooks.co.uk

EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

42

Is there a confidence crisis?

Nervousness is a big deal for many modern riders. It’s also an important factor in the sale of bits and training aids including calmers. Brian Seddon offers a checklist to help you and your customers assess rider confidence.

P You genuinely look forward to riding your horse.

P When you have a day where the farrier, dentist, vet or saddler is visiting your horse, you still make time to ride.

P When at the stables, you spend more time sitting on your horse than you do talking to other owners and doing nothing constructive.

P You find the right saddle and tack for your horse without a three month debate on social media with people who don’t know the answers anyway.

P You don’t feel the need to let someone else ride your horse to warm it up or settle it down.

P When riding, you vary things, you don’t simply stick to your safe zone. This may include jumping for fun or in competition.

(Photo: World Horse Welfare) P You ride in open spaces not just arenas.

You enjoy a good canter across a big field or on the beach.

P You like hacking out. You wear hi-viz - but don’t feel the need to spend half an hour decorating yourself and your horse like an airport runway before setting off.

P You’re happy to ride other people’s horses without previously watching ten hours of video of them being perfect equine angels.

P You consider yourself a reasonable rider; nothing special, but basically proficient. You know your limit but never stop learning.

P You don’t use inappropriate bits or gadgets on your horse.

P You have a knowledgeable awareness of your horse’s feed regime and neither over nor under-feed.

P When it comes to riding, you’re not easily influenced by other people’s opinions. You just get on with it.

DID YOU PASS THE TEST? Being a rider with low self-esteem can be a horrid, lonely place. The only people who can really help those who lack confidence are confident riders. So if you can answer ‘yes’ to the questions above, you could be the person to quietly and calmly help another rider to find a better way forward.

About the author Brian Seddon is retired from the mounted police whom he served as a horse remount trainer and riding instructor.

He has also worked in racing; he led up the 2004 Grand National winner Amberleigh House. Brian currently offers freelance training of horses and riders and contributes horsemanship articles to Equitrader magazine. He can be contacted on tel 07977 097121 or via www.equinesolutions.co.uk

www.equestriantradenews.com

43 “I want a bit that’s effective but dressage legal…”

If this is what your customers are asking for, Lindsay Middleton - Sprenger’s UK bitting expert - has some suggestions.

KK Ultra: This is the ideal starter bit.

There should be one in everyone’s tack room – so it’s an essential bit for you to stock. Its sympathetic shape and unique middle link, which is angled forward by 45 degrees, provides a sensitive connection between horse and rider. I suggest that your customers try this bit before any others as it suits so many horses.

Novocontact: This latest bit from Sprenger has an oval shape design which widens the contact area of the mouthpiece on the horse’s tongue without putting pressure on the palate. I recommend single jointed Novocontact bits (like the one pictured) for horses that don’t take the contact confidently. They are also great for horses with sensitive mouths because the rider is able to give precise but soft aids. Double jointed Novocontact bits are good on horses that occasionally tend to pull against the hand, but are too sensitive to be ridden in stronger bits.

Duo: This bit is very gentle on the horse’s mouth and a great choice for young horses or those that back off from a bit. With a mouthpiece made in soft, flexible plastic (that’s food-safe and solvent free), it readily adapts to the horse’s mouth. The shape of the bit also allows room for the tongue while encouraging chewing. The mouthpiece is reinforced with a steel cable to make it stable and to provide security.

Sprenger’s wide range of bits is easily recognised by the black ring at the cheeks and the white gold colour mouthpieces.

Its Sensogan mouthpieces give a delicate and sophisticated connection to the horse, thanks to their unique combination of copper, manganese (said to prevent muscle tension and support stress reduction) and zinc.

Sprenger is a German company that’s been designing and making bits since 1872. Zebra Products is the UK distributor.

Lindsay Middleton can advise you and your customers on bit selection. t Zebra Products 01352 763350

Personal trainer for horses

EquiAmi training aids promote engagement of the hindquarters, develop topline, core strength, balance and self-carriage.

Simple to fit – it takes about two minutes - and adjust, the EquiAmi saves time for professionals and makes lungeing easier for less experienced people.

The lunge aid self-centres to keep the horse in a soft, equal contact. No adjustment is needed for change of rein.

The kit comes in a hessian storage bag with instruction booklet and DVD. Fans include event rider Harry Meade and para-dressage star Natasha Baker.

Trainers, vets and therapists are also recommending EquiAmi lunge aids for performance, competition work and the retraining of racehorses. They’re also widely used in kissing spine rehabilitation.

An English made lunge cavesson and fleece lunge rollers are available to complement the lunge aid. t EquiAmi 01584 891049 www.equestriantradenews.com

Better Business

44

LET’S MAKE MOVIES! Modern consumers would rather watch than read, so video is a musthave addition to your digital marketing mix, says Oli Cutmore.

Oli Cutmore is behind the camera as presenter Jonty Evans interviews eventer Emily King.

T

echnology has transformed the way businesses interact with their audiences. And video is the perfect medium for today’s fast paced society.

When it comes to promoting a brand or product, video effectively explains and shows the big picture. After all, a photograph can only show one angle; two photos can only show two angles…

Why fill your webpage or social media album with static images when one short video can show a product in its entirety?

Product-based video can be cleverly edited to combine a selection of visual imagery and audio to get the message across.

An added advantage is that content can be edited later if a feature changes.

Video is great for sharing news or highlighting sponsorship deals too. When a well-known rider is pictured with a product, consumers could be forgiven for thinking that anyone could have written the accompanying quote.

But hearing the words from a rider’s mouth produces a truly believable review. The same can be said for qualified individuals called upon to present a product.

This strategy has proved useful for wholesaler Westgate EFI. “Video is a cost-effective and efficient way for us to use our

sponsored riders,” says sales and operations manager Tracey Woods. “It also enables us to generate far more content than we can achieve through other channels.”

NAF’s Lorna George agrees: “Video helps NAF to bring to life attention-grabbing content and allows viewers to relate to our brand. It’s by far the quickest way for our audience to consume information, making it a great, engaging way for content to be shared.”

Today’s mobile devices and camcorders make it easy to produce good quality footage on a budget. But remember that your image is at stake, so plan your content and branding carefully - just as you would with print media.

While some companies use video content on their website, in store or on a tradestand, social media is the main driving force behind the move to digital marketing.

However, while it’s quick and easy to shoot and upload video footage, it can then be shared freely. So first take time to check that you’re completely happy with the end result. It’s estimated that around 40% of the world’s population have internet access (source www.internetlivestats.com), so

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

that’s more than 3 billion people who can potentially watch your video.

Video tips • Keep it short. Get the point across but hold your audience’s

attention. Planning and editing are vital for snappy content.

• Having all your videos in one place – on Facebook or YouTube for example - makes it easier to build a following.

• Know your target market.

Videos should be produced in a way that appeals to, and can be understood by, the desired audience.

• Be consistent to create a professional and memorable identity.

• When choosing a soundtrack, remember that copyright rules apply to music just as they do to photography.

• Use keywords, tags and hashtags to help potential customers discover your content.

• Post or link videos to your website if you want to drive traffic to your brand.

• Ask your suppliers what video content they can provide, or check their social media pages and share from there.

More than 3 billion people can potentially watch your video.

About the author Since 2013, Oli Cutmore has been helping companies grow their online presence. His company OC Media Solutions offers cost effective video and editing services and can also help businesses manage their social media and web content. Services include video/audio editing, videography, photography, graphics, web design and PR. Tel 01787 462524 or visit olicutmore.co.uk to find out more. www.equestriantradenews.com

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EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS AUGUST 2015

CCJs

46

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

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

List your website here

For more information call 01937 582111

AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

AMELIA WOODFORD T/AS VINTAGE TACK ROOM (THE), 3 MARKET SQUARE, PETWORTH, WEST SUSSEX, GU28 0AH, £223 STEPHEN WOODFORD T/AS VINTAGE TACK ROOM (THE), 3 MARKET SQUARE, PETWORTH, WEST SUSSEX, GU28 0AH, £223 DAWN SALTER T/AS SADDLEBAGS EQUESTRIAN, G4 SPRING MILL, WILSDEN, BRADFORD, BD15 0DX, £702 DAWN SALTER T/AS SADDLEBAGS EQUESTRIAN, G4 SPRINGMILL, WILSDEN, BRADFORD, WEST YORKSHIRE, BD15 0DX, £1,386 DAWN SALTER T/AS SADDLEBAGS EQUESTRIAN, G4 SPRINGMILL, WILSDEN, BRADFORD, WEST YORKSHIRE, BD15 0DX, £906 SALLY CARTWRIGHT T/AS SADDLERY SERVICES, 18 WOLSTERN ROAD, STOKE-ON-TRENT, ST3 5BU, £7,661 LODERI RACING AND STUD MANAGEMENT LTD, MARWELL PARK, BRINKLEY ROAD, NEWMARKET, SUFFOLK, CB8 9NE, £3,376 EQUIPROFI LIMITED, EYEHORN FARM, MUNSGORE LANE, OAD STREET, BORDEN, ME9 8JU, £1,698 BRISTOL EQUINE SALES LTD, 141 ENGLISHCOMBE LANE, BATH, BA2 2EL, £610 HONEYSTAR EQUESTRIAN LIMITED, R/O 11 HEYGARTH DRIVE, GREASBY, WIRRAL, MERSEYSIDE, CH49 2PL, £705 EEQUESTRIAN LIMITED, ST JAMES HOUSE, 676 WILMSLOW ROAD, DIDSBURY, MANCHESTER, M20 2DN, £1,672 HORSE & RURAL LIFE MAGAZINES LIMITED, 93 MOOR END ROAD, MELLOR, STOCKPORT, CHESHIRE, SK6 5PT, £277 HOT HORSE PRODUCTS, UNIT 9, CIRENCESTER OFFICE PARK, TETBURY ROAD, CIRENCESTER, GL7 6JJ, £365 G WILLIAMS T/AS GERMAN DRESSAGE HORSE UK, WASH FARM, HALSTEAD ROAD, FORDHAM, COLCHESTER, CO6 3LL, £8,186 THE HORSE COURIERS, 35 BROOKS ROAD, STREET, SOMERSET, BA16 0PP, £151 NORFEED UK LIMITED, UNIT 3A, FOLD COURT, BUTTERCRAMBLE, YORK, YO41 1XU, £9,617 LLOYD T/AS LLOYD ANIMAL FEEDS, UNIT 11-12, YSTRAD CEDWYN INDEST, YSTRAD GYNLAIS, SWANSEA, SA9 1DT, £89 SCIENCE SUPPLEMENTS, UNIT 2A, CHASE ROAD, BURY ST EDMUNDS, IP32 6NT, £3,102

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AUGUST 2015 EQUESTRIAN TRADE NEWS

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