Marketing/Communications/PR

HGTV Gives Primetime Billing to Global Pet Expo and APPMA Members

Special to Premiere on Saturday, August 19th at 9pm (and 2am) ET/PT

HGTV will take viewers behind the scenes of the annual Global Pet Expo in a new one-hour special that will highlight the latest products, treats and trends for pets and their owners. Global Pet Expo 2006 will premiere on the national cable network on Saturday, August 19 at 9 p.m. (and 2 a.m.) ET/PT and will feature some of the most creative new ideas in pet care, selected from more than 700 exhibitor offerings from Global Pet Expo 2006 in San Diego.

Hosted by Tava Smiley (I Want That! Kitchens) and John Sencio (Cash in the Attic), the special will examine the ever-growing trend towards “humanizing” pets by focusing on several product categories, including play toys, bedding, dinnerware/snacks, habitats, travel accessories, fashion, grooming/beauty, training tools, high-tech gadgets and even luxury items for pampered pets. In addition, there will be a segment featuring personalized products and apparel for pet owners.

“Our viewers crave up-to-date information on consumer products and design ideas that will enhance their lives in and out of their homes,” said Judy Girard, President, HGTV. “Our continuing focus on new products and innovations gives viewers their first look at the latest trends, all in the same fun, upbeat, entertaining style that has made the network a go-to resource for home and lifestyle for the past 11 years.”

“This show is monumental not only for Global Pet Expo, but the pet industry as a whole,” said Bob Vetere, President of the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA). “The pet industry is growing in size and notoriety and promotion like the HGTV special lets the entire world know it, which will ultimately result in increased attention and capital.”

APPMA and HGTV are encouraging all members of the pet industry to support the premier by asking as many people as possible to watch it, helping to ensure it becomes an annual program.

Ongoing Media Exposure/Opportunities

In addition to coverage like this HGTV special, APPMA strives to continuously promote pet ownership, the health of the industry, and our member companies and their products in the news.

Remember to keep an eye on our weekly e-updates as we include promotional opportunities, stories we’re working on, and media requests that can mean great free exposure for your company and its products simply for being a member of APPMA!