SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION AT ZOOMARK 2023

One of the reasons for the great success of the BolognaFiere event was certainly its key focus on innovation, led by the Pet Vision area, which showcased more than 500 selected new products launched by our exhibitors, grouped around the five macro trends destined to dominate the pet market of the future.

A source of key insight and inspiration for pet shops, buyers and purchasing managers, these mega trends - Green transition, Healthy & functional, Value for money, Tailor-made and Spoil me more - highlighted the market demand for sustainability, attention to health and wellness, an attractive price-performance ratio, increased customization and extra pampering.

In the Pet Vision area, Zoomark’s visitors had the chance to experience firsthand the very best offerings from a vital, dynamic pet industry with a strong commitment to innovation and research.

Standing out among the most interesting products and services presented at Zoomark 2023 were the winners of the very first Pet Vision Awards, selected for each category by an international jury of trade journalists: Bewital Petfood's Belcando Baseline, a line of dog food for price-savvy pet owners who don't want to compromise on quality; Ajour's Whisker-friendly slow-feeder bowl, a super-sustainable product in terms of material, design and production process; pH Detection Cat Litters by Shandong Ruida, the litter that monitors cats' pH balance, thus health; the DogoDrops soothing eyedrops by Dogoteka, for cleansing the eye area; and lastly the certified vegan line of hygiene products Hydra Vegan Detox Collection by Pet Society.

Original new ideas that sparked the interest of buyers and industry professionals included insect-based dry and wet foods and snacks; accessories made from recycled, eco-sustainable materials, such as the vegan harness produced using apple peel; high-tech toys; tasty snacks inspired by human foods (but specially formulated to fulfil pets' nutritional needs); high-tech accessories and tools; and specialized services for the industry, distribution and also for pet owners, such as the insurance plans offered by Mutua Italiana Assistenza Veterinaria for dogs, cats and rabbits, providing national and European coverage.