From farmhouse kitchen table to global success

Podium Pet Products’ story began at a farmhouse kitchen table in Dorset, where Carina Evans started handcrafting natural solutions for pets. Through hard work, local support, and a dedication to quality, the business has grown from humble beginnings to operating out of a modern 2,500 square foot warehouse. The company’s award-winning products, including favourites like Dog Rocks and Beloved Wellness grooming products, are made with ingredients from the West Country, supporting local jobs and reflecting the best of British countryside values.

“We’re incredibly proud that our journey started at the kitchen table and has led us to a thriving business supporting rural communities,” said Carina Evans, CEO of Podium Pet Products. “I reimagined recipes I found in my grandmother’s books I found after she died, into the products in the BeLoved range. Our rural roots inspire everything we do, from sourcing natural ingredients to supporting local suppliers and giving back to our community.”

Championing Local Business and Community Spirit

On completion of the Goldman Sachs 10KSB programme, Carina has joined a select group of UK entrepreneurs. The programme’s expert teaching and mentoring has given Evans and her team fresh ideas and new confidence to grow the business, create more jobs locally, and continue supporting the well-being of pets and their owners.

“The support and expertise I received through the programme have been invaluable,” said Evans. “It’s helped me connect with other business owners facing similar challenges, and together we’re building a network that benefits our communities. The mental well-being aspect, knowing you’re not alone as a business leader, has been especially important.”

Supporting Women in Rural Enterprise

As a woman leading a thriving rural business, Evans is passionate about encouraging other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. “There’s a real sense of camaraderie among women in business, it’s a powerful largely untapped force,” she said. “The 10KSB programme has given me a platform to share our story and inspire others to take the leap”. The Buy Women Built group and Joanna Jensen from Child’s Farm recommended and enabled participation on the programme. The Goldman Sachs 10KSB cohort has provided a unique environment where female founders and leaders could share insights, address common challenges, and build lasting partnerships. This collaborative approach is essential for unlocking new growth opportunities and strengthening the broader business ecosystem.

Mental Well-being and Leadership Resilience

The demands of entrepreneurship can take a toll on mental health, a topic the 10KSB programme addresses head-on. Evans credits the programme’s emphasis on well-being and peer support as a key factor in her renewed focus and energy as a business leader.

“Having a trusted network of like-minded peers has been invaluable,” Evans said. “It’s not just about business growth, it’s about building resilience, staying motivated, and maintaining a healthy balance and leadership style as we scale.”

About Podium Pet Products

Podium Pet Products is a leader in natural pet health products, serving customers in the UK, EU, USA, and Canada. The company is dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and the well-being of pets and their families worldwide.