Despite rumors to the contrary, Pet Fashion Week New York will host its 4th annual trade show event this year August 22 and 23.

“I’m not going to lie; it’s been more of a grind this year,” said Derek DiFante, speaking about this year’s anticipated attendance. He cited the struggling economy as a major factor.

“The buyer registration has been tremendous, however,” he said, noting that over 300 new buyers have registered to attend the show this year, which represents less than 50 percent of the total number of registered buyers, which is over 700.

So far, DiFante says approximately 50 vendors are registered to exhibit at the show; registration is ongoing.

At this year’s show, Fashion Institute of Technology, also located in New York City, will have an installation with new products created by students.

Pet Fashion Week is working with the Affinia Manhattan hotel, which is approximately one-half mile from the show location at the Metropolitan Pavilion. Affinia is offering special room rates for show attendees. For more information, visit www.petfashionweek.com.

Posted July 10, 2009