Flexi’s Chic new VARIO leash captures the title at this year’s National Pet Industry Trade Show.

The first annual National Pet Industry Trade Show New Product Contest was ripe with competition.  Being our largest event, exhibitors knew real estate in the new product section was tight so they offered up only their best merchandise for the visitors to vote on.  The big winner for this year, was flexi with their new VARIO retractable leash.  An international superstar on the pet product scene, flexi never fails to come up with chic yet functional designs for modern dog walkers.  To find out more about the VARIO, we caught up with Dennis Dubbelman, flexi Sales Manager for the USA & Canada.            

How many years has flexi been making retractable leashes?

The retractable dog leash was invented 40 years ago by Manfred Bogdahn. He patented the product and started his company Flexi in 1973. Since then we have continuously developed and improved the product. Most parts are produced in our state of the art factory. The assembly of the leashes is still done manually, ensuring the high flexi quality.

How many lines do you currently have?

We have a complete range of leashes for all dog sizes, different types of customers and with different price points:

• Classic & Comfort: The best sellers from flexi.
• Design Range: For the style and fashion interested pet parent.
• Special Range: For L & XL dogs and working dogs (police, army, customs).   Also includes our cat leash and City leash.
• Luxury Range: Glam with Swarovski Crystals and Leather:  For the high end customers.

What sets this new design apart from previous ones?

The new flexi VARIO does not only have a new rounder, more modern design, it also has 5 new patented highlights:

• Handle adjustment for sizes M & L: For more comfort and safety.
• Comfortable braking system: Easy to use.
• Tape guidance system: for smooth retraction.
• Multi-belt link system: For Soft Stop Belt, LED Flash Belt, or Duo Belt.
• Extendable with VARIO Accessories: LED Lighting system or Multi Box.

What was the particular inspiration for this design?

At flexi we only manufacture retractable dog leashes. We always strive for perfection. With the new VARIO we are offering solutions for topics related to walking your dog.

Where is the flexi VARIO available in Canada?

The flexi VARIO is only available to the pet specialty channel. Due to high demand we are working with selective distribution through Kane Veterinary Supplies Ltd.

Congratulations to flexi on being the first ever winner of the New Product contest at the National Pet Industry trade show.