231: Inside SUPERZOO 2026: What Makes It Essential for Pet Retailers and Brands (With WPA's Mike Karsting)

SUPERZOO is coming August 12-14, 2026 in Las Vegas, with an education day Tues, Aug 11, - and if you sell products, make products, or work behind the scenes in the pet industry, this is your must-attend event. Candace sits down with Mike Karsting, Senior Vice President of World Pet Association (WPA) and the driving force behind SUPERZOO, to talk about what makes this show essential for independent pet retailers, emerging brands, and anyone on the product side of the business. They discuss: 🐾 Why SUPERZOO is "the melting pot of the pet industry" (if you touch pet in any way, there's something here for you) 🐾 The New Product Showcase strategy and how Candace found a $25k client through the showcase 🐾 Education passes, grooming demos, networking meetups, and the Beach Party (there's something for everyone) 🐾The Groomer's Innovation Stage and new on-floor classroom you won’t want to miss Plus the Pets+ SUPERZOO sample box, why vetting attendees protects exhibitors, and Mike's advice for juggling education, shopping, networking, and parties!  ABOUT MIKE KARSTING Senior Vice President, World Pet Association / SUPERZOO Mike Karsting has served as Senior Vice President of World Pet Association for the past five years, bringing more than 30 years of experience in event marketing, production, and management across both trade and consumer platforms. Prior to stepping into the SVP role, Karsting spent 18 years with TEN: The Enthusiast Network, including the last decade as Vice President of Events. There, he led the planning, production, and execution of major properties such as the EnduroCross series, Motor Trend International Auto Show events, as well as numerous custom car shows and live concerts. Karsting later produced multiple X Games throughout the world and served as Marketing Director at MotoAmerica and previously held a leadership role at Professional Bull Riders. As SVP, Karsting leads the strategic development and execution of the company's live B2B portfolio, driving growth through innovative event strategy, partnership development, and operational excellence. Leveraging on his extensive background in motorsports, automotive culture, and live entertainment, he is committed to delivering impactful experiences that elevate exhibitors, sponsors, partners, and industry attendees. Transcript Show NotesJoin Us Online Find us on Facebook Join our Free Pet Industry Facebook Group Follow us on Instagram Read our Blog