The UK pet industry has lost one of its most respected figures with news of the sad passing of John James at the age of 76.

John, pictured receiving a PetQuip Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018, will be sadly missed by a trade he supported for more than 50 years, in particular through his family-owned business James & Steel.

Gordon Thomas, event at PATS where James and Steel was a regularly exhibitor, paid tribute to John, saying: “I am so sad to hear about John – he was funny, positive, great to be around and always had time to stop and have a chat. He always had a plan and a great story too.

“We will really miss him at PATS, he was a great friend to us and was always happy to let us know what he thought about the show and was always constructive.

“To be honest I thought he would go on forever and that we would never have this conversation.”

When John celebrated 50 years in the pet industry in 2023, he told Pet Trade Xtra about his career. Here’s an extract:

John's first job, after being expelled from school for being a disruptive influence, was in the office of the Co-op in Slough. But his first business venture was at the ripe old age of 9 when he collected used newspapers on a Saturday morning on his trolley. After tying them in nice tidy bundles he sold them to local shops. This was at a time when everything you bought – from fish and chips to ironmongery – came wrapped in newspaper. John describes it as being a very early recycling business.

At the age of 19 he became the youngest salesman to work for Continental Tyres.  He went for an interview even though he had failed his driving test and was not re-taking it for another two weeks. The interviewer appreciated his bottle, applying as a sales rep for the South-West area when he hadn't got a licence, so he was employed on the proviso that he passed.

In 1973 he moved to Osmond and Osmond, a family wholesaler who sold pet products, as a sales agent. In the early 80s he left to start his own business, James Marketing. He and wife Judy have always had an abiding love of dogs and he had a belief that he could do a better job than other people that were selling in the industry.  So, with £3k savings and the help and support of Judy, they started selling collars and leads, which John would sell and Judy would pick, pack and ship from their garden shed, handwriting the invoices as she went, in addition to making their own range of knitted dog jumpers. This was no mean feat as they were also bringing up four young children.

They then started using a larger shed in son Jason’s garden, which also brought him into the business. Five months later they moved to their first industrial unit. Incidentally, Jason sold the shed but John says he’s never seen the money for it!

They started trading fat balls in their first warehouse but couldn't afford a pump truck, let alone a forklift so another of his sons, Saul, had to handball everything from the delivery trucks. This was after walking miles to the warehouse as he didn't have a car at the time.

 The first James & Steel product was the Universal car lead, made in Taiwan and sourced by John and Judy when visiting the factory at the very start. The Taiwanese staff kept running up and down to the factory floor, adapting the product to John and Judy's specifications and their best-selling product was born.  It is still a major selling product today.

Their business took off straight away and John will say to anyone, it is testament to the strength and support of Judy plus everyone in the family working with him that makes their business the success it is today. They now have hundreds of bestselling lines and one of the most successful Christmas ranges for pets, available exclusively to the pet specialist sector.

His mantra would be: always try to be honest in everything you do. John can walk into any exhibition in the world and he has the respect of the local pet trade. He has no regrets, always looks forward, and doesn’t dwell on mistakes. He may wish they had done some things differently but that's life.

If he had any advice to any budding entrepreneurs it would be: “Keep your feet on the floor, remember where you’ve come from, don’t talk big and make sure you are thinking of the customer first. That way you will prosper.”

Pet Brands Ltd has entered into an exclusive partnership with Nike to bring the revolutionary Nike MaxFusion Dog Toys to the UK market. These innovative toys are crafted from Nike Grind materials, demonstrating both brands’ commitment to sustainability and high-performance design.

Nike MaxFusion Dog Toys are made from repurposed materials sourced from used athletic shoes manufacturing scraps. Through Nike's Grind programme, these materials are processed and transformed into durable, non-toxic toys designed to enhance playtime for dogs of all sizes. By combining sustainability with functionality, MaxFusion toys provide an environmentally friendly and exciting option for pet owners who care about their dog’s well-being and the planet.

As the exclusive distributor of Nike MaxFusion Dog Toys in the UK, Pet Brands Ltd will offer these eco-conscious products through a network of retailers, e-commerce platforms, and pet specialty stores. With this new partnership, Pet Brands Ltd will introduce an exciting range of Nike-branded dog toys that are durable, safe, and made from sustainable Nike Grind materials.

“We are thrilled to be the exclusive distributor of Nike MaxFusion Dog Toys in the UK,” said Amy Spratt, Group Head of Marketing at Pet Brands Ltd. 

"This partnership is a significant step forward in our commitment to providing pet owners with products that combine innovation, performance, and sustainability. The MaxFusion toys are the perfect fit for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with high-quality, eco-friendly toys.”

The MaxFusion Dog Toys will be available in a variety of shapes and sizes, ensuring that dogs of all breeds can enjoy hours of play. Whether fetching, chewing, or tugging, these durable toys are designed to withstand the most energetic play sessions. In addition to their functional design, the toys also help reduce the environmental impact of waste, aligning perfectly with the growing trend towards sustainability in the pet care industry.

Pet Brands Ltd and Nike are both committed to making a positive impact on the planet by promoting the use of sustainable materials. Nike Grind materials, which have been repurposed from athletic shoes, are transformed into products that reduce the need for virgin materials, thereby lessening the environmental footprint.

For more information on the full range of products or to become a retailer, visit www.petbrands.com or contact sales@petbrands.com

The Aquatics Zone, a dedicated area for aquatics, watergardening and reptile exhibitors, will again be one of the star attractions at PATS 2025 following a successful launch at last year’s show. 

Leading UK and international suppliers have already booked stand space in the Aquatics Zone at this year’s exhibition, which takes place over three days at its new home – Hall 1 at the NEC Birmingham – from Sunday, 28^th September to Tuesday, 30^th September 2025.

The Zone will showcase all the latest launches from big-name manufacturers including ALF, Aquadip,Aquafleur/Colombo/Superfish, Aquatlantis, Bermuda/Certikin, Cloverleaf, Norwood Aquarium, NT Labs, okpet.co.uk - Fish Systems, Peregrine Livefoods and Zoo Med Laboratories.

ALF exhibited in the inaugural Aquatics Zone at PATS 2024 and following its success the company quickly booked its stand for this year’s exhibition. Sales director Ian Blinco said: “With PATS moving to the NEC, the event will be bigger and better than ever. We will have many of our suppliers joining us for the duration, and we are excited to meet our customers, old and new.”

Zoo Med Laboratories is another returning exhibitor to the Zone and is also looking forward to three days of intense activity. Cyril Geoffray, national sales manager for UK & Ireland, commented: “Zoo Med Laboratories Inc. has seen tremendous uplift in new customers at every PATS show we’ve attended. The new NEC configuration makes it possible to continue attracting yet more customers, and with this in mind, we have booked our largest stand to date. This will enable us to showcase even more new products.”

Cloverleaf won an Aquatics Zone New Product Award in the Outdoor category at PATS 2024 and agreed the achievement had been a real benefit. “We received great feedback at our professional stand last year and picked up exciting new aquatic business too. We look forward to sharing our new products for 2025,” said the company’s Jo Skingle.

Norwood Aquarium will be appearing in the Zone for the first time and can’t wait to take advantage of exhibiting at the leading Pet and Aquatics Trade Show. Sales manager Sam Street said: “We have launched over 500 new products so far this year and PATS will be the perfect place to showcase these new ranges with existing and new customers alike. This show will allow stores to get their hands on the products.”

The Zone will again have its own dedicated New Product Showcase and Awards, which will be judged by industry experts and retailers under the following three categories:

• Indoor
• Outdoor
• Reptile

“The response to the Aquatics Zone at PATS 2024 was really positive, being welcomed by the aquatics, watergardening and reptile sector,” said PATS event director Gordon Thomas. “We’re confident that this year’s Zone will be even better and create a real buzz at the show.”

Companies wishing to book stands in the Aquatics Zone and PATS in general should call the PATS office on +44 (0)1892 862848 or visit the website www.patshow.co.uk and click on ‘stand enquiry’.

Retailers and buyers can register their interest in attending PATS 2025 by visiting www.patshow.co.uk, which has all the up-to-date information about the show.

The Pet Industry Federation has this week launched its 2025 Innovation Awards. The Awards recognise the groundbreaking ideas, products, services, and technologies that are shaping the future of the pet industry.

Now in its third year, the Innovation Awards shine a spotlight on businesses that are pushing boundaries and creating real impact. Open to all pet businesses, the awards are free to enter, giving innovators the chance to showcase their ideas to a panel of expert judges.

Ten finalists will be selected to present their innovation live at the Business of Pets Conference, taking place on Thursday 5 – Friday 6 June at Cranfield Management Development Centre near Milton Keynes. This unique platform offers businesses unparalleled access to potential investors, distributors, and industry leaders, with the winner being announced on the final day of the event.

Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, said: "We know there are incredible businesses in the pet industry that are innovating in exciting ways, and the Innovation Awards are designed to give them the recognition and exposure they deserve. Our 2024 finalists found this an incredible opportunity to pitch their ideas to industry experts and investors, and we can’t wait to see what this year’s entries bring."

Entries close on Thursday 17 April. To submit your entry and find out more, visit: https://petfederation.co.uk/the-business-of-pets-conference/innovation/

Pictured: The Holistic Hound was the 2024 winner of the PIF Innovation Award.

Pharmall Country Store, a long-standing family-run pet food supply business in Harrogate, has been put up for sale as the owner plans for retirement.

Located on Moorlands Farm since 2000, is positioned at one of the busiest junctions on the outskirts of Harrogate, benefitting from significant local and passing trade. 

Additionally, the business is adjacent to a large residential development area offering substantial potential for increased local sales.

Originally rooted in the farm supply industry, the business has evolved under the second generation of ownership into a more consumer-focused enterprise, offering a variety of pet food and accessories, wild bird food, equine feed and bedding, smallholder supplies, and veterinary and farm products. The business also offers a delivery service, both locally via its own vans, and nationally through couriers.

Pharmall is currently owned by Robert Harper and family. Robin is now selling the business as he plans to retire. The sale is being marketed by specialist business property adviser Christie & Co.

Robert Harper said: “After 34 wonderful years running Pharmall Ltd – the family business – I have decided to sell up. This decision has been incredibly tough to make, the staff I’ve employed over the years and the wonderful customers have made coming to work a pleasure. However, due to the recent passing of my father who established the business 40 years ago, I feel the time is right to step back to enjoy retirement with my wife whilst we are both still in good health.

“It has been an incredible journey, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved. I am confident that a new buyer will bring fresh energy and ideas to take the business forward, and continue to serve our loyal customers with the same dedication and passion.”

Business agent Steve Riley, who is handling the sale at Christie & Co, commented: “This is an exceptional opportunity for a new owner to acquire this well-regarded, family-run business in the bustling town of Harrogate. The business enjoys a brilliant reputation and is heavily relied upon by locals due to its needs-based nature, and it offers an ideal platform for an existing operator to take the business forward and build upon the excellent current trading position.”

According to the details of the sale on Christie & Co’s website https://www.christie.com/5417042/, the business:

• Turns over YE 30 June 2024: £1,107,939
• Well respected family run pet food supplier
• Located in a busy affluent town
• Excellent scope to increase turnover
• Strong ties with local community repeat trade
• Excellent reputation with strong customer base.

Trade association PetQuip has announced that its prestigious pet industry awards will take place at a new venue later this year – the National Conference Centre, Birmingham.

The PetQuip Awards presentation will take place on Monday 29 September 2025 at the conference centre, close to the NEC Birmingham alongside PATS, the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show.

The awards evening is a chance for networking, celebrating and congratulating success for everyone in the sector.

The awards reflect a buoyant and lively sector, recognising and rewarding the energy, achievement and innovation of the pet trade. Short-listed and winning entries receive a raft of high-profile publicity within the UK and internationally, before, during and after the awards event itself, which attracted a record number of attendees in 2024 and is set to grow even further at its new venue in Birmingham.   

The 16 awards include categories for product, marketing, retailers, suppliers, sustainability and individual achievement.

The awards and this year’s sponsors will be formally announced in mid-April. 

PetQuip already hasa great line-up of sponsors in place. If you would like more details on how to join them to highlight your company’s products or services to the UK pet product industry as an awards sponsor, contact susan@petquip.com

Click here for the full list of award categories.

Baboo Gelato, manufacturer of award- winning frozen dog treat Doggy Doggy Yum Yum, has secured a major distribution deal with Hunt’s Food Group.

Hunt’s is one of the UK’s leading distributors, delivering products to over 6,000 customers across the South in food & drink, catering and retail sectors. 

This new deal will allow Baboo Gelato to expand the sales of its products across more market sectors and parts of the UK.

Baboo Gelato, started by husband and wife team Sam and Annie Hanbury in 2012, has won numerous awards for its ice cream range, and following demand from its customers the company set about developing a frozen treat for dogs.

Sam Hanbury said:  “We are finding limitless demand during the summer, not just from obvious pet retailers and specialist dog friendly places, but from ordinary cafés, pubs, restaurants, and tourist destinations.  It just seems that most savvy people involved in Food & Drink want some of the poochie pound and we can help with a classy product, well supported with point of sale which includes stickers, leaflets, posters and an A-frame sign which comes complete with space to put a dog bowl underneath it.

“We are absolutely delighted that we are now able to work with the Hunt’s Food Group to further expand the distribution of Baboo Gelato and Doggy Doggy Yum Yum. It is great to work with company that shares the same values as us in terms of quality, delivery service and customer care.”

Thomas Hunt, Managing Director at Hunt’s Food Group, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Baboo Gelato into the Hunt’s Food Group family. Their commitment to crafting exceptional, award-winning gelato resonates with our own dedication to quality. Just as our neighbouring charcuterie brand in Rampisham, Capreolus brings exquisite flavours to the table, Baboo Gelato elevates the dessert experience with its inventive range.

"Together, we’re not just distributing products; we’re curating a delightful culinary journey for our customers. This partnership allows us to expand our offerings and celebrate the local artistry in food, ensuring that every scoop and every bite brings joy to both our human and canine consumers. I would highly recommend the Mint Choc Chip which is certainly my favourite flavour!”

Baboo Gelato can support all its customers with branded freezers and point of sale material.

Pet shops and specialist pet stockists should order Doggy Doggy Yum Yum through Pedigree Wholesale. Cafes, restaurants and pubs should order through Hunt’s Food Group

For point of sale enquiries contact Sam Hanbury at sam@baboogelato.com or 01308 488629. 

TropiClean has announced its Race to Vegas contest exclusively for Pedigree Wholesale customers. Stock 15 of its top-selling lines, and you’ll be entered for a chance to win the trip of a lifetime to Superzoo Pet Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Whether you’re looking to boost your category sales or you’re a passionate TropiClean fan eager to stock up on your favourite products, this is your opportunity to turn your business success into an unforgettable adventure. 

Don’t miss your chance to pack your bags for the ultimate pet retailer getaway. Stocking their core 15 items qualifies you for one raffle entry in the winning pot, and there are also multiple opportunities for bonus entries, including engaging in social media activity, point of sale placement in your store and listing further items from the range. 

The core 15 items include best-selling grooming and dental lines from across the TropiClean range. These lines TropiClean’s best sellers worldwide. TropiClean’s Dental health range includes water-based solutions, which attract far more retention and repeat customers than traditional toothbrush solutions. TropiClean’s shampoo range includes formulas for everyday functions such as hypoallergenic, deep cleaning, and 2in1's, all top solutions pet owners look for when shopping. The TropiClean OxyMed range is also one of their top sellers, as 25% of pet owners are looking for itch solutions when purchasing grooming products.

Visit the Pedigree Wholesale website to find out more about the competition and order the core 15 qualifying lines. Sign up on the official TropiClean Race to Las Vegas website and receive exclusive contest updates here: https://www.tropiclean.com/contest/ Terms and Conditions apply; see the TropiClean website for full details. 

TropiClean is available exclusively to the specialist pet trade through Pedigree Wholesale. Speak to your local Business Development Manager, Telephone Account Manager or their friendly customer services team to order.

TropiClean is a recognised leader in natural health and wellness pet products. Founded in 1980, TropiClean is family-owned and operated in the USA. Pedigree Wholesale stocks a variety of TropiClean products that make bath time and teeth cleaning time easy and effective. From dental solutions to grooming essentials, Pedigree has a TropiClean product to keep your customers’ pets healthy and fresh.

As interest in alternative protein sources continues to grow, UK Pet Food has released its latest factsheet, Cell-Cultivated Products in Pet Food. 

The factsheet, now available on the UK Pet Food website, provides pet professionals, owners, and industry stakeholders with clear, science-based insights into the potential role of cell-cultivated products in pet nutrition. 

Covering key topics such as production methods, safety considerations, and consumer perceptions, the resource aims to inform and support discussions around this emerging technology.

Sarah Hormozi, Head of Science and Education at UK Pet Food, said: “As companion animals continue to play a vital role in society, and pressure on resources increases, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the pet food industry is more important than ever. 

“A wide range of safe, sustainable, and nutritious protein sources—such as animal by-products, plant-based ingredients, and insect proteins—are already used in pet food, and the new addition of cell-cultivated products is a new step in driving progress. 

“Our factsheet addresses key questions and highlights the need for continued scientific and innovative exploration in the field of animal nutrition.”

To read the factsheet, visit: https://www.ukpetfood.org/resource/uk-pet-food-unveils-new-factsheet-on-cell-cultivated-products-in-pet-food.html

Pawsome Paws Boutique (PPB) has launched its highly anticipated Toy Story Collection in 350 Pets at Home stores across the UK.

The officially licensed Toy Story Collection brings a touch of Disney magic to pet accessories, featuring designs inspired by iconic characters such as Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and a special Toy Story Friends design that showcases everyone's favourite characters together. The range includes the Tough Trails Harness, Collars, Leads, Bow Ties, and Treat Pouches, ensuring pets can strut their stuff in full Disney style.

Pets at Home has previously stocked Pawsome Paws Boutique’s Winnie the Pooh, Lion King, and Bambi collections, which were met with overwhelming success. Due to this strong demand, Pets at Home has increased the number of stores carrying the Disney collections, making them more widely accessible to pet owners across the country.

“We are incredibly excited to bring our Toy Story Collection to Pets at Home stores nationwide,” said Sophie Chesman, owner of Pawsome Paws Boutique. 

“The response to the online launch has been phenomenal, and we can’t wait to see even more pets rocking their Toy Story gear. Teaming up with Pets at Home gives us the opportunity to reach pet lovers across the country, making it even easier for them to get their paws on this magical collection.”

This expansion into brick-and-mortar retail with Pets at Home represents a significant milestone for Pawsome Paws Boutique, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality, fashionable, and fun pet accessories to customers across the UK.

Pawsome Paws Boutique was founded in 2016 by Sophie, who started the brand with just a sewing machine in her bedroom. Now collaborating with industry giants like Disney and Pets at Home is a dream come true, marking an incredible journey from small business to household name.

The Toy Story Collection will be available in-store from February 17th, while stocks last. Customers can visit their nearest Pets at Home location or shop the collection online at https://www.petsathome.com/campaigns/listing/toy-story

Natures Menu has launched a new range of Complete & Balanced Raw meals, which will be available in pet stores.  

Expanding its popular frozen raw offering, Natures Menu has introduced new 500g, 80:20, Completed and Balanced No Grain Blocks, in a variety of single protein and multi-protein options. In addition, the Natures Menu range of convenient complete & balanced raw nuggets has also increased to help suit dietary needs and preferences. 

Comprising 80% high quality meat and offal and 20% carefully selected fruits and vegetables, each recipe is enriched with superfoods, optimised to provide adult dogs with nutritionally complete raw food diets that support overall health, digestive wellbeing and shiny coats.  

For over 40 years Natures Menu has been a market leader crafting nutritious raw food, to provide pets with all the goodness of natural raw in a more convenient, mess-free way. Simply pour, thaw and serve.  

Crafted by experts in Norfolk, each frozen raw recipe ensures delicious meat, veggies and fruit are minimally processed and preservative free, while still maintaining their natural flavour and nutrients. With nature’s goodness locked in, the result is a range of mouthwatering, no grain recipes in a range of easy to serve formats, suitable for all dog sizes. 

80:20 Complete & Balanced Raw Blocks: 500g, RRP: £2.99-£3.49 

Formulated by experts and using all natural ingredients, these moreish meaty blocks are perfect for mess-free mealtimes. Available in a variety of tasty flavours, owners can choose between single animal proteins (Beef, Turkey, Lamb and Duck) or a blend of multiple proteins (Goose & Turkey, Salmon & Chicken). Premium quality, single protein venison will also launch in April 2025.   

80:20 Complete & Balanced Raw Nuggets: 1kg, RRP £6.99

Complimenting the range of single and multiple protein 80:20 Complete & Balanced Frozen Blocks, Natures Menu has relaunched its 80:20 Complete & Balanced Raw Nuggets to introduce three new flavours. Each a blend of multiple proteins, the recipes include some of the most loved flavours in the UK: Turkey and Venison, Duck and Chicken and Rabbit and Turkey.  

The optimised range is designed to help pet owners find the option that is very best for their dog. Feeding a variety of healthy proteins keeps mealtimes exciting, incorporating a wide range of textures, flavours and nutrients through the week.  

Melanie Sainsbury, Veterinary Expert at Natures Menu, said: “At Natures Menu we pride ourselves on providing pets with highly nutritious and fulfilling food options, that don’t sacrifice on quality, flavour or convenience – thanks to over 40 years research and expertise in raw and natural feeding. By expanding the range, we’re giving owners even more choice, making portion control and meal planning easier than ever.  

“Our Raw Frozen range offers a clean, safe alternative to whole raw meat, with natural high-quality ingredients and minimal fuss. With so many mouth-watering flavours to choose from, owners know that their pets’ meals will never be boring, and they’re getting all the nutrients they need for a complete and balanced diet.” 

Earlier this year Natures Menu announced the launch of its brand-new range of Raw Freeze Dried Treats and Rewards and expansion of Complete & Balanced Raw Freeze Dried Dinners, further cementing its commitment to providing even more choice in natural pet nutrition.  

To access the Natures Menu trade portal, visit: https://trade.naturesmenu.co.uk/login

Contact Natures Menu via phone on 0800 018 3770, or email trade@naturesmenu.co.uk

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Dorwest Herbs has partnered with TV personality Faye Winter and her Golden Retriever Bonnie to support the launch of its new digestive support supplement for all-round gut health, Probiotic Plus.

Adding to the already bestselling digestive range, Probiotic Plus provides daily microbiome support for optimal gut health and utilises the benefits of a pre, pro and postbiotic. Formulated by nutritionists and vets for maximum benefits, it effectively promotes normal gut function by supporting the good bacteria in a dog’s gastrointestinal tract.   

The ex-Love Islander approached Dorwest at Crufts 2022 after using Dorwest’s Elderberry & Nettle Extract for her Golden Retriever Bonnie’s nose pigmentation and seeing great results.

After Valerian Compound supported Bonnie during her first season in the summer heat, Faye partnered with Dorwest for their annual calming campaign for fireworks in 2023, showcasing Bonnie as a real-life example for settling anxiety with herbal support.  

Now a self-proclaimed Dorwest fan, Faye is now stocked up on everything from Kelp Seaweed Powder for pigmentation and coat, to Bonnie’s daily bedtime routine including a toothbrushing session with Roast Dinner Toothpaste.

It was Faye’s work within the charity sector that really caught Dorwest’s attention, as Faye has been regularly volunteering for Guide Dogs since 2017; helping train a total of six dogs who have gone on to help people with visual impairment and blindness.

Faye is keen to establish herself in the ethical and natural dog world. She said: “Working with Dorwest continues to be really special. I’m a huge fan of herbal supplements as gentler on the system. Now we have brand-new Probiotic Plus, I know Bonnie’s gut health is in safe hands.”  

Managing Director at Dorwest, Jo Boughton-White commented: “We’re excited to work with Faye again, as it felt like a natural partnership after she already bought from Dorwest and has been involved within the dog industry for years.’’ 

Animal Focused has been selected as a finalist in the SME Northamptonshire Business Awards 2025, in two categories – Best New Business and the Positive Impacts Award.

This recognition highlights Animal Focused’s dedication to raising standards of animal welfare through innovative training and education. Their Dogs in Schools Course and animal licensing qualification have been instrumental in equipping schools and licensing officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare.

The Best New Business category celebrates emerging businesses that have demonstrated strong growth, innovation, and a significant impact within their industry. Animal Focused has quickly positioned itself as a leader in high-quality training, addressing crucial gaps in knowledge and ensuring best practices in educational and professional settings.

Being named a finalist for the Positive Impacts Award further underscores the meaningful contributions of Animal Focused’s training programmes. Through the Dogs in Schools Course, educators are empowered to integrate school dogs responsibly, enhancing student learning, emotional well-being, and confidence while prioritising canine welfare. Meanwhile, the L3 Certificate in Licensing Animal Activities ensures that licensing officers are well-equipped to assess and regulate pet businesses effectively, promoting compliance with legislation and improving conditions for animals across the sector.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be finalists in two categories,” said Vicky Skinner, Founder of Animal Focused. “Our mission has always been to place animal welfare at the forefront of all animal interactions. Whether working with schools or licensing professionals, our courses are designed to enhance welfare standards by providing learners with the expertise needed to make informed, ethical decisions.”

The SME Northamptonshire Business Awards celebrate the achievements of small and medium-sized enterprises that are making a significant difference in their industries. Winners will be announced at a prestigious awards evening in May.

For more information about Animal Focused and its training programmes, visit www.animalfocused.co.uk.

A leading trade association has cautiously welcomed Labour's Crime and Policing Bill but demands more immediate action and concrete funding to address the retail crime crisis devastating high streets across Britain.

The new legislation, set to be presented to Parliament today, contains over 50 measures, including stricter penalties for shoplifting of items under £200 and making it a specific offence to assault a shop worker.

The bill also introduces 'Respect Orders', similar to the Anti-social Behaviour Orders that were in place until 2014.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "This bill represents a significant step forward in protecting our independent retailers who have been suffering from escalating retail crime. The current legislation, which deprioritises theft under £200 as a summary-only offence, has left many small retailers vulnerable and frustrated. However, we are deeply concerned about the four-year timeline to recruit 13,000 additional officers. Where is the immediate funding and support for businesses suffering right now?"

The British Retail Consortium recently reported that violent and abusive incidents increased by more than 50% last year, with retailers reporting approximately 55,000 thefts daily, costing the industry £2.2 billion in 2024 alone.

In Bira's own most recent crime survey, conducted in September 2024, it found that 78.79% of businesses that had experienced theft in the past 12 months reported that the frequency or severity of theft incidents had increased.

Mr Goodacre added: "Independent retailers are the backbone of our high streets. They cannot absorb these losses in the same way larger retailers can. Every theft impacts not just their bottom line but also creates an atmosphere of fear and insecurity for both staff and customers. The government must accelerate this recruitment timeline and provide emergency funding for additional security measures, as independent retailers cannot wait four years for protection."

Bira, which works with over 6,000 independent retailers across the UK, is calling for the government to provide immediate financial support for security measures, faster implementation of the new laws, and a concrete timeline for when retailers will see increased police presence in their communities.

Bira, which also represents Retra (the trade association for independent electrical retailers) and the ACT (Association of Cycle Traders), has long advocated for tougher measures on retail crime and will continue to work with the government to ensure the effective implementation of these new laws.

While Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated the bill aims to "take back our streets and town centres," Bira insists that without proper funding and accelerated timelines, these promises risk becoming empty words for struggling independent retailers.

Mr Goodacre added: "Our members need more than legislation - they need boots on the ground and financial support for security now. We are particularly pleased to see the introduction of a standalone offence for assaulting retail workers, acknowledging the unacceptable levels of violence our members' staff face daily. But the retail crime epidemic requires emergency action, not just long-term plans."

An independent pet shop owner hopes to continue operating her business despite mounting costs so that she can celebrate 20 years of trading in 2026. 

And in a bid to ease the financial pressures she has made an emotional plea to customers on social media, asking for their support during this difficult time.

Mandy Christopher opened Little Beasties in 2006 at the age of 19 and has navigated the business through many challenges but recently things have got really tough. 

Under the headline of PLEASE READ THIS IMPORTANT POST, Mandy wrote on the shop’s Facebook page: “At the moment I can’t see Little Beasties reaching its 20 year anniversary. We've had many ups and downs over the years but the last couple of years have been the hardest yet financially. It’s getting extremely hard to make ends meet and its now got to the point where I’m not able to take a wage.

“When I opened Little Beasties in 2006 I wanted to create a pet shop that put animal care, welfare and excellent pet keeping first, offer a place that you could come for advice or help anytime, I wanted it to help support the rescue work I already did and support other local rescues, somewhere kids could come see animals and find out how to correctly care for and respect them and provide a safe place for students to do their work experience. I feel very lucky that we have been able to do this over the last 19 years and would love to continue to do so.

“I'm generally a 'look on the bright side' kind of person and I don't like to worry people. I’ll put on a smile and pretend it’s all ok, but I feel it is important to be honest and let you all know how bad it is.

“We are determined to keep Little Beasties going and I want to keep my amazing team together, but we can’t do it without the help and support of our customers old and new.”

Mandy said that increased costs, including licence fees, insurance, utilities, wages, phone/Internet, delivery costs and vet fees, had put a strain on the business. She also cited changing buying habits, especially online shopping, as having an effect on the shop’s finances.

She urged customers to keep shopping with Little Beasties, ‘even if it’s a 50p dog treat’, and to make use of the store’s delivery service.

Following an instant reaction from customers on Facebook, Mandy wrote: “WOW, thank you all so much for your response to my post. I honestly can't thank you all enough for your support, shares, messages, comments etc – you’re all amazing! I feel very overwhelmed and lucky to have such amazing support. I will be in touch with everyone who has reached out to me. Again, thank you all so much, you don't realise how much this means to Team Beasties xxx.”

Picture of Mandy taken from the Little Beastie's page on Facebook.

OSCAR Pet Foods Ltd, which celebrated its 30th anniversary last year, has ceased trading, the company announced on its website.

Over the three decades, OSCAR Pet Foods had built up an established network of franchisees throughout the UK.

The statement on its website read: “We are sorry to have to tell you that OSCAR Pet Foods Limited ceased operations on 30 January 2025.

“We are deeply sorry to have to share this devastating news. We have done everything possible to continue serving our loyal customer base and network of franchisees, but the challenges we faced were ultimately insurmountable.

“While OSCAR Pet Foods Ltd (Head Office) has ceased trading, this does not affect your local OSCAR franchisee. To place orders or enquiries about continued services for your pets, please get in touch with your local franchise.

“We appreciate your understanding and thank you for your continued support over the last 30 years.”

Pedigree Wholesale has announced new lower prices on over 150 bestselling products from its customers’ favourite brands. 

With savings on trade prices, RRPs, or both, these reductions are designed to support the independent pet store. The lower prices will help boost retailers improve margins.

Stock up your shelves with over 150 of the industry's top products and enjoy the benefits of new lower prices! Pedigree Wholesale regularly checks its prices to ensure it delivers quality products at the best prices. 

Don't delay, visit the website here to shop now: https://petproducts.co.uk/offers/p3-price-reductions/ or contact your Business Development Manager, Telephone Account Manager, or their friendly Customer Services Team for more information.

An iconic pet shop in Edinburgh, which closed 16 years ago, has been put on the market.

Pets & Things in Duke Street, Leith, closed down in 2008 and the retail premises have remained empty ever since.

Now the property, totalling 1,010 sq ft, has been put on the market with Zoopla and is being sold without an asking price.

The details on Zoopla reads:

“The unit comprises a single windowed retail unit arranged over the ground and basement of a 4-storey tenement.

“The unit is located within the Leith area of Edinburgh, approximately 2 miles north of the City Centre. More specifically the unit is located on the south side of Duke Street, close to its junction with Easter Road and opposite Leith Links. Nearby operators include Twelve Triangles, Nauticus Bar and Bombay Spice.”

The Zoopl listing can be found here https://www.zoopla.co.uk/for-sale/commercial/details/69417432/