Who are BETA?

You might have spotted the BETA logo on our site. It's not just a badge, GS Equestrian & Country is a proud member of the British Equestrian Trade Association, the official body for the UK equestrian trade.

Here's who BETA are, what they do, and what it means when you shop with us.

BETA (British Equestrian Trade Association) was founded in 1979. Today it's recognised by Government and the leading riding organisations as the official voice of the equestrian manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade. Their aim it to help its members reach the highest standards of reputation, knowledge and service.

What BETA does for riders

Much of BETA's work happens behind the scenes. You benefit from it every time you tack up, feed or bed down.

Safer kit

BETA is best known for its body protector standard, launched in the early 1990s and now recognised worldwide. Garments made to the standard are retested every year, so quality stays consistent.

Feed and bedding you can trust

Over 95% of horse feed sold in the UK is made by BETA members.

NOPS logo: since 2009, BETA's NOPS scheme has reduced the risk of naturally occurring prohibited substances getting into feed, from the field to the feed room.
EGUS mark: shows a feed is suitable for horses and ponies prone to gastric ulcers. It was developed with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate.
NOPS for bedding: launched in 2021, it holds bedding brands to the same standards as feed manufacturers.

Feed advice from the experts

The BETA ENFAR register lists accredited equine nutritionists and feed advisers. Anyone can use it to find reliable, evidence-based advice.

Better-trained retailers

BETA runs courses in rider safety equipment fitting, equine nutrition, bits and bitting, and saddle fitting. That means more knowledgeable advice when you shop.

Safety campaigns

BETA's Summer of Safety covers everything from yard and feed room safety to biosecurity and responsible riding.

What our membership means for you

When you see the BETA logo, you know you're buying from a business like GS Equestrian & Country that takes the horse world seriously.

A trusted retailer. BETA membership puts us alongside the UK's leading equestrian brands and retailers.
Products you can rely on. We stock trusted brands and back them with knowledgeable advice.
Support if something goes wrong. Get in touch with us first and we'll put it right. If we can't resolve a complaint between us, BETA can step in to mediate.
Advice from people who know. We're horse owners too. Ask us anything, from rug fit to the right hat.