About BETA

Mission Statement: "The British Equestrian Trade Association works to support our members in their efforts to achieve the highest level of repute, knowledge and profitability".

BETA was formed in 1979 and since then has grown to be recognised and accepted as the official body for the equestrian manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade by the Government and leading riding organisations. 

We currently have over 600 members covering retailers, manufacturers, importers, distributors, agents, dealers, and a wide range of companies offering services to the industry.

We are committed to on-going market research, to the promotion of BETA to the riding public and to the growth of riding through promotions such as the Jeep National Riding Festival, a BETA initiative. Safety and Consumer Protection are other areas where we expect considerable development. 

The Feed Committee has become an important addition to BETA and the Code and Guidelines for suppliers and retailers of equine feed and supplements is nearing completion.

We plan closer contact with members through a chain of Field Officers. The first of these, Mrs Norma Smithson, has successfully completed a year's trial in the North of England. Tricia Nassau-Williams has now been appointed to cover the South West and Midlands's areas

The international status of the Trade Fair has been a major breakthrough for the British equestrian trade. British products are renowned for their quality - this is proved by the interest shown by buyers from all over the world who come back year after year to the BETA International. We attract buyers from over 40 countries and exhibitors from 25 countries. We plan to further develop the Fair which now incorporates Clothing Country and River and Field for country pursuits.

Some of our main achievements include:

• creating Codes of Conduct for retailers and suppliers.

• changes to the Medicines' Act and the Saddlers List allowing retail members to sell horse wormers.

• the development of the BETA International as a world respected Trade Exhibition. 

• The National Equestrian Survey

• Training Courses

• BETA Body Protector Standard

• Defence of jobs in relation to hunting

We also represent the trade on a number of bodies including:

• BSI Hat Committee

• BHS Safety Policy Committee

• Standing Conference on Country Sports
  National Equine Forum

• European Body Protector Committee

• Jeep National Riding Festival 

• UKASTA (United Kingdom Animal Suppliers Trade Assn)

How would you like BETA to help you? By contacting us for further information or by joining BETA you will get the backing of a progressive and successful trade association.