Press Release January 10, 2012

AETA Welcomes New Sales Representative Board Member

Media Contact: Lua Southard

American Equestrian Trade Association

610-444-2025

info@aeta.us

cassie@equineresources.com

Kennett Square (January 9, 2012) – The American Equestrian Trade Association (AETA) is pleased to welcome Annemarie Cochrane to the Board of Directors as the sales representative member. Cochrane represents prominent equine brands such as FITS, Toklat and Treadstep Ireland and runs her own website. Cochrane will serve for the remainder of the three-year term vacated by Holly Lemanski, who stepped down in January.                

Cochrane is an independent manufacturer sales representative with more than six years experience in the field. Prior to forming her own business and website, she worked for Nunn Finer Products.  She has been an avid equestrian since the age of seven. Her passion for retail and riding has culminated in the launch of her website, TackCulture.com, where she promotes the stores and lines she represents and shares her own experiences as a rider.  Annemarie received her undergraduate degree from Skidmore College and her Master’s degree from Immaculata College.  She lives in Chester County, PA, with her husband Bill, her horse Cigar, and their dog Molly.                

“I look forward to bringing my experiences and passion for the horse industry to the AETA Board,” said Cochrane. “My job helps me to keep current with equestrian news, events and trends, as well as network with retailers, manufacturers and end users. I plan to use that perspective during my time with the organization.”                

As per the AETA by-laws, the Board of Directors nominated and then voted Cochrane into office for the year remaining on Lemanski’s term. After serving faithfully for two years, Lemanski regretfully tendered her resignation from the board, citing commitments to her own business that would prevent her from performing her board duties to her satisfaction. Cochrane’s term will expire December 30, 2012, though she is eligible to be nominated as a candidate for the 2013 elections.                

“The AETA Board thanks Holly for her dedication to her leadership role and wishes her all the best in her endeavors,” said John Craven, AETA President and Vice President/General Manager of Intrepid International in New Holland, PA. “We are sad to see her go, but I am confident that Annemarie will be an asset to our organization as we plan to enhance the benefits and appeal of AETA to all of our membership classes.” AETA sponsors two major trade shows each year in conjunction with Hopper Expositions. The AETA International shows are held in January and August at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA. Exhibitors come from across the United States as well as Canada, Europe, India, and Asia. The next trade show will be January 28-30, 2012. Officially incorporated in 2007, the American Equestrian Trade Association is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit trade organization that was formed to unite equestrian trade and provide a forum for positive interactions among manufacturers, retailers, industry partners and enthusiasts. AETA looks to encourage and nurture interest in equestrian activities throughout the United States and act as an industry resource for all sectors of the equestrian community. For more information, visit www.aeta.us.