“The potential is enormous.” Three familiar figures have teamed up to promote Prestige Italia across the UK. The Italian saddlery brand is now represented by newly appointed senior strategic consultant Claire Galer, plus regional agents Michael Darley and Catherine Powell.  “This strengthened structure marks a significant step in reinforcing Prestige’s long-term commitment to UK retailers, fitters and the wider equestrian community,” says a spokesperson for the company. Claire Galer has a background in equine biomechanics and physiotherapy. She founded underwear brand Derriere Equestrian and has previously worked for D&H and Saddlery Brands International. Michael Darley, now representing Prestige Italia in the south and central...

“We see equestrian and country stores becoming a one-stop-shop for animal lovers.” A pet bedding and clothing brand is strengthening its ties with the equestrian sector via a new wholesale arrangement. Danish Design Pet Products has engaged Trilanco as exclusive distributor to equestrian retailers. Su-Bridge Pet Supplies is to supply the brand to the pet trade. Stocking pet products offers great potential for equestrian retailers, says Danish Design’s director of sales Rob Newsome. “We see equestrian and country stores becoming a one stop shop for animal lovers with a rural lifestyle,” he adds Danish Design and its licensed brands - Battersea, Fat Face & Laura...

…they need to be prepared.  In case they get a last-minute call-up from Santa, a herd of reindeer in Essex has been fuelling up on stamina-giving energy.  Dengie Alfa-Beet has proved a big hit with Rudolf’s relations who live at Maldon Promenade Zoo, close to the feed company’s headquarters.  “We’ve used a variety of Dengie products over the years and they’ve proved invaluable across many different species,” says zoo director James Williams. “Our reindeer are especially enthusiastic. Alfa-Beet is a firm favourite and they never fail to come trotting over at feed time.” So… do the Essex reindeer awake from strange dreams before...

“Making high quality items accessible through retailers is a badge of honour.”  Hux – the new name for Hucklesby Associates - has been appointed sole distributor for USG (United Sportsproducts Germany) in the UK and Ireland.  The wholesaler has long supplied the trade with body protectors and footwear by German manufacturer USG – but this new agreement gives Hux exclusivity. Managing director George Hucklesby sealed the deal on a visit to Germany last Monday.  “We’re over the moon, really chuffed” he told ETN.  “Wealth shouldn’t be a prerequisite” USG body protectors are big sellers in Germany, having been voted ‘number one’ for five consecutive years by...

Brand launch part of deal.  AmaHorse has appointed Shaws Equestrian as its sole distributor for the UK and Ireland. The Italian company is one of Europe’s largest manufacturers and distributors, supplying a range of products for horse and rider.   AmaHorse has two main brands. Equestro is set to be launched in the UK in Spring 2026. Acavallo is already established with its gel pads, seat savers and accessories. “We’re delighted to be working with AmaHorse to bring prominence to these products that add to the welfare of horse and rider,” says Monty Stuart-Monteith, managing director of Shaws Equestrian.  Paolo Petyri, AmaHorse’s sales director, added...

Manufacturers can submit products to check for compliance.  Fresh data on rider injury has prompted the American horse sports regulator to introduce new rules for safety stirrups.  US Equestrian (USEF) highlights incidents in which riders were injured because their clothing or body got caught on a stirrup with an upward-pointing projection while dismounting. Not all stirrups with emergency release features are banned, however.  Those which have closed branches in their non-activated state remain compliant. Although if there is a gap in the stirrup’s outline, a moveable branch must sit inside the stirrup’s plane. Enforcement of the new rule will be staggered. From 1 December,...

“Collection is a milestone.”  LeMieux has collaborated with Disney to launch a Disney Hobby Horse Collection.  The range comprises four of the entertainment giant’s characters — Disney Pegasus, Maximus, Sven and Pixar Bullseye — reimagined as hobby horses.  Each hobby horse comes with a detachable wooden stick, plush fabric and accessories to appeal to collectors and children. “Working with Disney on this collection is a milestone for LeMieux,” says the brand’s CEO Dan Mahoney.  “Our hobby horses blend the timeless appeal of imaginative play with the iconic charm of Disney characters — creating a unique, story-driven product that stands out in the world of...

“We know retailers are always looking for ways to diversify.” The maker of Likits equine treats and toys is on the scent of a slice of the £20 billion UK homewares market. Talisker Bay International’s new Cremello brand, comprising fragranced candles and diffusers, is to be made available to the equestrian trade.   “We know retailers are always looking for ways to diversify and give customers reason to visit their stores,” says brand manager Lindsay Gall. Besides making great gift ideas at an affordable price, the range will bring in repeat custom, she adds.  Cremello, named after the ethereal beauty of the equine colour,...

As April showers arrive, this supplier is upping the ante in all-weather protection for horses.  Gallop Equestrian has secured the licence to use the Duraproof trademark on its rugs. The manufacturer has already rolled out its first turnout rugs featuring the internationally recognised waterproofing and conditioning treatment. “We are the only rug supplier with this seal of approval – and we’re using it to extend the waterproof life of our turnout rugs,” said Gallop Equestrian’s Amy Drew. Gallop’s Duraproof coated rugs have a waterproof rating of 10,000mm* when brand new. “This is excellent for all conditions throughout the year including heavy downpours or continuous...

… with a plan to overcome import issues. The Equestrian Agency - comprising Peter Wilkes, Kelly Whapples and Stacy Coates - is exclusively representing Waldhausen in mainland UK.  Waldhausen, founded in Cologne in 1836, is among Europe’s largest equestrian wholesalers and brand owners. The company distributes own-branded products, E.L.T. clothing, Swing body protectors and brands such as Beris Bits. The Equestrian Agency says it is “overcoming import issues” for UK retailers by working with Waldhausen to offer “competitive DDP (delivered, duty paid) prices removing retailer import hassles.” Peter is covering north of Birmingham, and Kelly is looking after trade customers in Birmingham...