In a move designed to expand marketing opportunities for exhibitors, the World Wide Pet Supply Association (Arcadia, Calif.) will invite consumers to attend the final day of its SuperZoo East trade show, Aug. 11-13, 2005, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.

In keeping with its mission to promote responsible pet care, WWPSA will give members of the public the chance to see new products that are, or soon will be, available for purchase at local retail outlets.

"With our expertise in trade and consumer shows, WWPSA again takes the lead and has developed a hybrid show, combining the best aspects of both," said Doug Poindexter, executive vice president of the trade organization. "With the changes in the distribution and retail channels, one thing remains the same: The consumer is our ultimate customer, and the one who has historically been left out of the loop.

He added, "The goal of this show is to connect all aspects of the pet trade and to promote responsible pet care through education and information. It is truly a totally new animal."

Co-located with the Southern Nursery Association's annual horticulture expo, SuperZoo East is expected to attract as many as 12,000 potential trade buyers.

For more information, contact WWPSA at 800-999-7295 or visit www.wwpsa.com. [November 2004 PET AGE]