London Vet Show: Reflecting on 2023 and Looking Ahead to 2024

Held yearly at ExCeL London, the London Vet Show (LVS) is a leading event in the veterinary industry calendar that draws a range of professionals from all over the world. Supported by influential groups such as the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the British Veterinary Association (BVA), the event provides veterinary professionals with an opportunity to network with peers and industry leaders, learn about new innovations, and participate in continuing professional development.

2023 London Vet Show Highlights

The 2023 edition of the London Vet Show, held on November 16-17, was its largest and most successful to date. With over 9,300 attendees, more than 400 speakers, and 375 exhibitors, it was an event that stood out for its scale, innovation, and impact.

“The exhibition floor was buzzing from open to finish, with delegates from all over the country and overseas… it’s been a record-breaking year for the London Vet Show in so many ways.” said Harry Norman, the show’s group event director. the event’s increasing significance as a global gathering place for veterinary professionals.

Veterinary companies such as Pet Cremation Services and iM3 also reported record booth engagement. Craig Evans of iM3 emphasized the event’s long-term effects on their company, saying that LVS has been essential to their expansion during the previous ten years. Pet Cremation Services’ Amanda Neilson, meanwhile, highlighted the event’s worldwide scope, which allowed her team to establish connections with decision-makers as far away as Australia.

Innovation was one of the main themes for 2023, and new features like the Modern Veterinary Practice Academy, which is hosted by Veterinary IT Services, provide engaging sessions on how technology can be used in veterinary care. The New Practice Academy was launched in partnership with NVS Group, giving participants the skills and resources they needed to start their own independent practices.

LVS 2023 promoted professional development and community building in addition to innovation. Programs like the Vets Stay Go Diversify Experience connected participants with career-development opportunities and mentors. The first-ever Brightminds Awards celebrated behind-the-scenes contributions to the industry, alongside the “30 Under Thirty” initiative, which recognized the outstanding efforts of younger professionals.

Delegate Feedback

Feedback from attendees highlighted the show’s value as a hub for collaboration, learning, and networking. “The London Vet Show is a great opportunity to meet with colleagues from all corners of our profession to learn and share ideas… It’s a hugely positive event that reminds me we are part of a great profession.” said Alex Just of Okeford Vet Centre. This opinion was shared by many attendees, who praised the event’s CPD offerings as well as the diverse range of exhibitors and industry giants.

Looking Ahead to the 2024 London Vet Show

This success is expected to be built upon at the 2024 edition of LVS, which will take place at ExCeL London from November 14–15. It promises to be equally dynamic, with more than 400 exhibitors and 200 speakers scheduled, with key topics like the use of technology in veterinary care taking center stage. Notable sessions will be cutting-edge developments in veterinary practice, such as artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and digital tools. One of the most eagerly awaited sessions is “The Veterinary AI Session: An Insider’s Chat,” which will examine how technology can help clinics become more accessible to their customers.

Recruitment and retention strategies will be another key focus in 2024, addressing the ongoing staffing challenges within the industry. For instance, clinics wishing to enhance their hiring procedures will find practical insights at Olly King’s workshop on “Recruitment Marketing: Hire Better, Faster, and Cheaper,” which is scheduled for November 14 at 10:35 am.

Zenopa’s Animal Health team (Alex – Business Unit Lead (Animal Health, Pharmaceutical & Consumer Health),  Poppy – Animal Health Specialist Recruiter, and Ben – Animal Health Business Consultant) will be attending London Vet Show on both days. A fantastic opportunity for the team to meet clients and candidates face-to-face, build stronger relationships and develop a deeper understanding of the current recruitment challenges and future needs of the veterinary sector. This direct engagement allows Zenopa to tailor its services to better align with business cultures and candidate fit.

Conclusion

The London Vet Show has become an indispensable event in the veterinary industry, bringing together professionals from all corners of the field to learn, network, and grow. LVS continues to play a crucial role in determining the direction of veterinary care, with innovation, community, and professional development at its core. With a particular emphasis on workforce issues and technology integration, the event will once again provide a venue for learning about the newest developments in animal healthcare in 2024.

Mark your calendars for November 14–15, 2024, and be sure to visit Zenopa’s Animal Health team in the exhibition hall! You can book a meeting ahead of time by contacting myself at poppy@zenopa.com or calling 07467453512.

Looking forward to seeing you at ExCeL London!