STAMFORD, CONN. — The American Pet Products Association (APPA) and Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA) have set the dates for an in-person Global Pet Expo event in 2022. The show will be held March 23 to 25 in Orlando, Fla., indicating a return to normalcy for industry events.

“The national pet industry is booming, with sales exceeding the $100 billion mark for the first time in industry history in 2020,” said Andy Darmohraj, executive vice president and chief operating officer of APPA. “After almost two years of virtual meetings and digital interactions, we are elated to be immersed in the energy that only comes from connecting in person. The trade show team has been hard at work behind the scenes making sure Global Pet Expo 2022 is the best yet. Now is the time to seize the opportunity – discover new products and trends, learn from the experts about what it takes to succeed and network with industry peers.”

The 2022 event will improve upon past Global Pet Expo shows, featuring simplified registration processes, an improved layout and floor plan, as well as mobile and on-site service enhancements. The show will continue to offer educational topics through the Global Learning Series, which are now available to all attendees. The 2022 Global Learning Series will also offer new learning opportunities for professional development.

“We are extremely pleased to offer the three-day Global Learning Series program to all Global Pet Expo 2022 participants,” said Celeste Powers, president of PIDA. “As our industry continues to expand, we know education and organizational growth is more important ever. We look forward to bringing actionable takeaways, inspiring speakers and essential learnings to the broader pet care community.”

Show organizers are currently accepting applications for Global Learning Series speakers.

Hotel reservations for Global Pet Expo 2022 will become available on July 1, booth applications will begin in mid-July and buyer registration will be available starting Sept. 1. Press registration will open on Nov. 1.

Several pet industry events are slated to resume in-person later this year, including SuperZoo in August and a Pet Food Alliance meeting in September.

Read more about pet food and treat industry events.