Society of Master Saddlers launches new Walsall Expo

The Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) is marking its 60th anniversary with the launch of a new trade event in Walsall this October.

The Walsall Expo will take place at Walsall Town Hall on 23 and 24 October, from 10am–4pm, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers and saddlery professionals in the traditional heart of the British saddlery industry.

Free for the public to attend, the event is the first of its kind organised by the Society and aims to showcase British saddlery and leather craft, while creating opportunities for businesses to make new industry connections.

Trade exhibitors are being invited to reserve stands, with the two-day event providing a platform to present products and skills to fellow professionals, industry stakeholders, the public and those considering careers within the sector.

Visitors will also be able to learn about training routes into saddlery and the Society’s welfare work, including its free-to-join Fit4Welfare Club.

A Trade Members’ Social will be held from 4pm on Friday, 23 October, as part of the Society’s anniversary celebrations. It is open to traders and SMS members regardless of whether they are exhibiting.

Society CEO Jo Byrne said: “The Expo is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the strength of the Walsall saddlery trade to the public, industry stakeholders and the next generation, while connecting with fellow manufacturers, suppliers and professionals from across the sector. Don’t forget to join us, whether you take a stand or not, for our Trade Members’ Social, where we’ll also celebrate the Society’s 60th anniversary with friends and colleagues from across the industry.”

To reserve exhibition space, contact the Society Office on: 01449 711642, or email: enquiries@mastersaddlers.co.uk