More than 8,000 qualified pet industry professionals are expected to attend H.H. Backer’s Pet Industry Christmas Trade Show and Educational Conference, Oct. 8-10, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont (Chicago), Ill. They’ll have the opportunity to visit exhibits by more than 700 pet supply manufacturers and distributors.

But that’s not all: Attendees can participate in Backer’s $10,000 Treasure Hunt by finding answers hidden throughout the convention center. Qualified buyers and distributors will have a chance to win $2,500 on Friday, $2,500 on Saturday and $5,000 on Sunday. A winner will be selected at the end of each day.

Or they can pay homage to their favorite celebrity or big-screen character at Backer’s movie-themed all-industry party. The party will be held from 9 p.m. to midnight on Saturday at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare Hotel. Cash prizes will be awarded for the best costumes.

The show will also offer a variety of educational seminars, including:

•  “Power Promoting Ideas” and “Pricing Strategies for Profits Plus” by Tom Shay.
• “Improving Your Selling and Merchandising Skills” by Shawn Dooley.
• “Aquatics Industry Summit” featuring Patrick Donston, Joe Olenik and Bob Hames.
• “Knowledge Share: New Approaches for Retail Success” featuring Vicki Lynne Morgan, Ken Scott and Anthony Bennie.
• “Great Opportunities in a Challenging Economy” by Mort Brown.
• “Buy Better, Get Technology Help with NexPet’s Retailer Co-Op” by Barry Berman.
• “Grooming the Challenging Dog” and “Getting the Most Out of Your Grooming Tools and Equipment” by Suesan Watson.

Attendees also will be able to get advice from Vicki Lynne Morgan, who once again will offer free “Ask the Expert” business consulting sessions during show hours.

Other popular areas include the All-Natural area and the New Product showcase—where retailers can vote to help choose the winners of PET AGE magazine’s 13th Annual Retailer Select Awards for Product Excellence.

In addition, top-notch groomers will vie for $20,000 in cash, travel packages, trophies and ribbons in Backer’s Celebration of Style Grooming Competition.

The show is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 8, and Saturday, Oct. 9; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 10.

For details, visit www.hhbacker.com or call 312-578-1818. [September 2010 PET AGE]