“MAKE DOING MORE NETWORKING YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION”

22nd December, 2025

Start 2026 with a fresh purpose, says industry leader. 

You can’t put a price on making connections and creating professional trust, according to a key player in the trade.

“The chance to network with others in the same industry is probably the most common reason why people initially join BETA,” says Claire Williams, executive director of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA).

Although it’s businesses that ‘belong’ to trade bodies – and pay the subs, it’s the people who forge bonds with one another, she adds.

That chance meeting, handshake or shared joke have become especially valuable in this age of convenience-yet-cold digital communication.

“So many people come to BETA conferences and days out and tell me that they’ve gone back to the office or store refreshed and inspired,” says Claire.

“So why not make doing more networking your new year’s resolution?”

Early bird discounts and a friendly welcome

BETA’s latest networking initiative is the BETA Equestrian Business Summit and AGM on Monday 23 February at Hilton East Midlands.

BETA members who book now can save on tickets through an early bird rate.

Headlined The future of the equestrian industry: opportunities and challenges, the day will feature a series of top-class speakers from equestrianism, technology, politics and economics.

Plenty of networking opportunities are built into the summit, be it over lunch, refreshments or at a dinner the previous evening to which all delegates are invited.

BETA being a famously friendly organisation, newcomers to the industry or to events like this can be reassured of a warm welcome.

“Delegates who don’t know anyone won’t be left out in the cold,” says Claire. “In fact, get in touch with the BETA office beforehand, and we’ll be sure to look out for you.”

Tickets and booking

BETA is offering early bird pricing until 31 December 2025 for BETA members with day delegate tickets costing £70+VAT (standard member rate after 31 December is £75+VAT and non-member rate is £98+VAT), 24-hour delegate rate including dinner on 22 February, B&B, and the summit, at £210+VAT (standard member rate is £220+VAT after 31/12/25 and non-member rate is £250+VAT). Dinner only and virtual ticket options are also available without early bird discounts.

To see the detailed programme, visit https://beta-uk.org/conferences/ or book using the booking form >>>