The Equestrian Index HOYS Trade Stand of the Year Awards 2025 have recognised two outstanding exhibitors for their exceptional displays and customer service at Horse of the Year Show. Clare Haggas Fine Art & Design claimed victory in the 20sqm and Under category, whilst Blackfort Equestrian secured the top honour in the over 20sqm category.
The awards, designed to celebrate exhibitor excellence in trade stand presentation and customer engagement, automatically enter all HOYS exhibitors into two distinct categories based on stand size. Anonymous judging takes place over Wednesday and Thursday of the show during trading hours, with two industry experts evaluating each stand across four key criteria.
Judging Criteria and Process
Every trade stand and team member receives marks out of ten across four essential categories: best overall impression, warmest welcome, best use of space, and best interaction with customers. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that winners demonstrate excellence not only in visual presentation but also in delivering exceptional visitor experiences.
The anonymous judging process maintains fairness and integrity, with industry experts observing stands during peak trading hours to assess genuine customer interactions and service quality.
20sqm and Under Category Winner: Clare Haggas Fine Art & Design
Clare Haggas Fine Art & Design impressed judges with an elegant, stylish, and eye-catching display that maximised impact within the limited space. The stand’s sophisticated aesthetic and effective use of every available centimetre demonstrated exceptional design skills and attention to detail.
Judges particularly praised the stand’s ability to create a memorable visual impression whilst maintaining functionality and accessibility for visitors. The elegant presentation perfectly showcased the brand’s fine art and design credentials, creating an inviting atmosphere that encouraged customer engagement.
Over 20sqm Category Winner: Blackfort Equestrian
Blackfort Equestrian secured the prestigious over 20sqm category award with a display that combined visual impact with outstanding customer service. The stand’s design created an impressive presence within the retail village, attracting visitors and maintaining high engagement throughout the show.
The team’s dedication to customer experience played a significant role in their victory, with judges noting their commitment to ensuring every visitor received personalised attention and expert guidance. This combination of stunning visual presentation and exceptional service delivery set Blackfort Equestrian apart from the competition.
Award Recognition and Prizes
Both category winners received trophies acknowledging their achievement and a year’s digital membership with The Equestrian Index. This membership provides valuable industry connections and resources, supporting exhibitors in developing their businesses and maintaining their high standards of excellence.
The Equestrian Index HOYS Trade Stand of the Year Awards continue to raise standards across the equestrian retail sector, encouraging exhibitors to invest in professional displays and customer service training. The recognition celebrates those who go above and beyond to create memorable shopping experiences for HOYS visitors.
Previous Winners and Award History
The 2024 awards saw Chic Cheval Brush Store triumph in the 20sqm and Under category, with judges praising founder Anita Dodd’s single-handed management of a brilliantly displayed stand that maximised space and delivered exceptional customer education. Joshua Jones UK claimed the over 20sqm category in 2024, with their elegant stand and team’s dedication to perfect fitting services earning high praise from judges.
These annual awards have become a highlight of HOYS, recognising the vital contribution that trade stands make to the overall visitor experience. The retail village forms an integral part of the show, offering visitors access to the latest equestrian products, innovations, and services from leading brands and independent retailers.
The Importance of Trade Stand Excellence
Trade stands at HOYS represent more than commercial opportunities; they contribute significantly to the show’s atmosphere and visitor satisfaction. Well-designed stands with knowledgeable, welcoming staff enhance the overall experience, making HOYS not only a premier equestrian competition venue but also a destination for discovering new products and connecting with brands.
The awards encourage continuous improvement across the retail village, motivating exhibitors to invest in professional displays, staff training, and customer engagement strategies. This commitment to excellence benefits visitors, who enjoy a high-quality shopping environment alongside world-class equestrian competition.
Looking Ahead
As HOYS continues to attract leading equestrian brands and retailers, the Trade Stand of the Year Awards will remain a key feature of the show, celebrating those who demonstrate exceptional commitment to visual merchandising and customer service. The 2025 winners, Clare Haggas Fine Art & Design and Blackfort Equestrian have set impressive standards for future exhibitors to aspire towards.
For exhibitors planning to participate in future HOYS events, these awards provide clear benchmarks for excellence: maximise your space creatively, maintain elegant and professional displays, train staff to deliver warm welcomes and expert guidance, and prioritise customer interaction at every opportunity.
