New European launches include some unusual extras, while others are doing the right thing for the environment.
There’s nothing new about adding a hint of bling and touch of patent leather to saddlery.
But now German brand Passier has gone for big name sparkles by teaming up with Swarovski to enhance its saddles this season.
Retailers and their customers can choose Swarovski crystals in three colours - silver Clear Crystal, golden Colorado Topaz and black Graphite - each in three sizes.
Bespoke sparkles can be added to cantles, saddle flaps, skirts and stirrup loops, plus breastplates and bridles.
Meanwhile Italian equine boots specialist Veredus has cleverly launched its own brand of men’s and women’s watches.
The contemporary timepieces have Swiss movements and 39mm steel cases. The men’s version has a chronograph design, black face and black leather strap. The women’s watch, with white dial and matching leather strap, is finished with glittering stones.
In the UK, environmental issues are to the fore, with several companies loudly launching refillable containers, and recyclable and/or carbon neutral packaging.
While the intentions are clearly commendable, potential drawbacks include of contamination of ‘competition clean’ feed, supplements and care products in the case of refillables.
And, as Katie Williams from feed company Dengie explained: “We have to be careful not to make our packaging too bio-degradable as we have a long shelf life on products, so the packaging has to be robust for many months.”
