North Yorkshire-based Inspired Pet Nutrition has agreed terms to buy Sopral, a prominent branded pet food business serving the European market, with manufacturing operations based in France.

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions. Financial terms have not been disclosed.

IPN is controlled by CapVest Partners LLP and Parquest, a leading investment firm.

Based in Pléchâtel, Brittany, France, Sopral is a leading manufacturer of branded premium dry petfood with a comprehensive range of high-quality nutritional solutions, including Pro-Nutrition Prestige, Pure Life and Protect brands. Sopral has a strong footprint and reputation in France and a fast growing online and international market presence in over 50 countries around the world. Employing over 130 people, the company operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility totalling 13,400 square metres and is known for its advanced in-house R&D capabilities.

Arthur van Benthem, CEO of IPN, said: “Sopral is an excellent and growing business, with a great team, leading brands and outstanding capabilities as a manufacturer of superior-quality pet food. This highly complementary strategic combination marks a significant milestone for IPN and provides us with a state-of-the-art manufacturing, logistics and sales platform to grow and realise our ambitious growth plans in the European market. We look forward to working with the Sopral team to build on their significant successes to date.”

Matthew Fargie of CapVest, said: “Following on from the acquisition of Butcher’s last year, Sopral is another great addition to the IPN platform, creating significant capability and scale to underpin IPN’s growth in Europe. The acquisition will unlock a number of new opportunities for organic and acquisition-lead growth and is a great example of CapVest’s passion for building strong, differentiated global companies through significant investment in people, technology, innovation, and capabilities.”

Thomas Babinet, Partner at Parquest, said: “When we invested in Sopral in 2018, our ambition was to unlock the company’s full potential together with the management team led by Yannick Guého. Collectively, we have transformed a quality-focused manufacturer into a premium brand, firmly positioned in high-growth markets. We revamped the flagship brands, strengthened the distribution network, launched an e-commerce platform, and doubled production capacity. We would like to warmly thank Yannick and his team for their unwavering commitment throughout this journey.”

Headquartered in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, UK, IPN is best known as the UK dog food market leader with its high-quality natural dog meals and pet treats under the “Harringtons”, “Butcher’s” and “Wagg” brands. With a strong commitment to natural, high-quality ingredients, IPN is dedicated to providing affordable nutritious pet food that supports the health and well-being of pets. The firm was acquired by international investment firm and buy-and-build specialist CapVest in 2020 and subsequently acquired Pet Food UK in 2021 along with its high quality and distinctively branded premium dog and cat pet food brands “Aatu”, “Barking Heads” and “Meowing Heads”. In August 2024, IPN acquired Butcher’s Pet Care (“BPC”), the UK’s leading wet pet food manufacturer.

Pet Trade Innovations is celebrating the achievement of its own brand – Bamboodles dog chews – being named a winner in the 5th World Branding Awards’ biennual Animalis Edition.

Celebrating the top 100 brands from the pet and animal industry, nominated by over 150,000 consumers from five continents, the Animalis Edition focuses on awarding the best pet and animal brands from around the world.

Animalis Edition Awards Ceremony was held at the stunning 13th century Hofburg Palace in Vienna’s historic city centre on July 3rd2025.

Bamboodles scooped the award for the National tier Brand of the Year in Dog Toys category, which is judged for being ‘stand-out’ in its home country and as a ’household’ name.

Pet Trade Innovations’ MD Steve Driver enthused: “We’re incredibly proud that Bamboodles has stood out in such a crowded UK dog toy chew market, earning recognition as a leader in innovation and inspiration across the global pet sector.”

With a unique judging and voting process, the World Branding Forum accredits points through three streams. Each contributing to a set percentage to the total score in evaluating the brands.

The Bamboodles is set apart with its clever manufacturing using natural bamboo and nylon fibres. Designed with a clever a T base – built for paws in both a T or Y shape, it appeals to the toughest of canine chewers.  

With 70% of Britain’s dogs suffering from anxiety, Bamboodles offers an instinctual stress busting activity. Not only keeping dogs occupied, chewing releases endorphins that helps reduce anxiety whilst helping to promote dental health. 

Available in small, medium and large, there’s a choice of infused natural scents – beef, roast chicken, peanut butter, bacon and there’s a fish option too! 

Richard Rowles, Chairman of the World Branding Forum commented: “To be crowned 'Brand of the Year' with 70% consumer votes is the ultimate validation of a brand's powerful audience connection. It's clear recognition that this brand hasn't just met expectations; it has soared past them."

Pictured, left to right:  Pet Trade Innovations’ Holly Shepherd and Liane Avery accepting the Award

Following a successful brand launch in April of this year, The Nutriment Company (TNC) has announced that DIBO, the high-quality raw dog food brand, is now available in-store at dedicated pet retailers across the UK.

With over 30 years of heritage in raw nutrition and a butcher’s philosophy at its core, DIBO’s full 48-product portfolio is now available in stores – offering pet owners quality, convenience, and value in raw feeding. The two thoughtfully crafted ranges – Freeflow Meatand Freeflow Menu – are designed to appeal to both experienced raw feeders and pet owners new to the lifestyle, and use premium, BARF-compliant ingredients, offering a flexible, easy-to-feed format suitable as a full meal, mixer, or topper.

“Our mission with DIBO has always been simple: to bring the butcher’s promise of quality, value, and trust to the dog food bowl,” says Ryan Winwright, Head of UK Marketing Operations at Nutriment. “Now that DIBO is available in-store, we’re thrilled to support our retail partners in connecting even more dog owners with a raw feeding option that’s easy, affordable, and uncompromising on quality. Retailers are looking for raw brands that are easy to stock, easy to sell, and trusted by owners – and DIBO ticks all those boxes.”

As part of the rollout, retailers benefit from a comprehensive suite of support tools designed to drive footfall and sales. These include branded upright and chest freezer deals, engaging point of sale materials (from freezer wraps and floor stickers, to flyers and posters), digital content, and direct sales support from the Nutriment team.

DIBO’s packaging and brand identity – inspired by its butchery roots – have been crafted to stand out in-store and build trust at the shelf. Strong visual cues, simple feeding instructions, and quality-led messaging help customers make confident choices when transitioning to raw or adding variety to their dog’s diet. The comprehensive retail launch toolkit is designed to support visual impact, education and customer engagement in-store. 

Available now, DIBO gives dogs the meat they were born to eat – and gives retailers a fresh way to meet growing demand for raw feeding with a brand that’s as committed to quality as they are.

A new survey of 2,000 UK cat and dog owners revealed the technological advancements they’re hoping to see for their pets in the future, including smart watches (20%) and automated teeth brushing devices (26%).  

Devices that automatically pick up poo (34%), AI animals to be a ‘friend’ to their pet (13%) and anxiety and emotional support solutions (29%) also emerged as popular inventions pet owners wish for their four-legged friends. Others want to see pet beds which change temperature based on how the cats and dogs feel (26 per cent), smart home appliances controlled by barks and meows (14%) and public transport purely for pets and owners (13%). 

If owners could ask their cat or dog about one thing, the majority (20%) would opt to know about their physical health, while 17% want to be told how happy - or unhappy - they are. 

The research, commissioned by Pet Drugs Online to celebrate its 20th anniversary, also found 29% would like to see the invention of paw recognition doors!  

Sarah Page-Jones, Head of Veterinary Compliance at Pet Drugs Online, one of the UK’s largest suppliers of veterinary medication online and animal care products, said: “This research paints an exciting picture of the future of pet care. We've come a long way already, with tech inventions such as automatic feeders, cameras and DNA testing kits, but there are still so many opportunities.  

“With the busy lives pet owners now lead, cameras are great to keep an eye on what pets are up to, but we’re surely not far off seeing AI pet-sitters! It’s clear pet owners are eager for even more innovation, especially when it comes to the health of their pets and everyday convenience, which mirrors the trends we’ve seen, of owners purchasing more tailored food and supplements aimed at specific conditions. 

“We know that the focuses we have on human health always trickle down to the priorities pet owners have for their companions – seen through food and nutritional demand over the past decade. Looking ahead, pet’s mental health will likely become more important to owners, as it has for humans in recent years.”  

Reflecting on what’s changed since the online retailer launched, 76% of pet parents believe the standard of pet care products has improved in the past two decades, and a further 74% think the availability of expert-backed information for owners has increased. Over half (59%) also believe pets are generally living longer lives now compared to 20 years ago. 

In the future, owners expect products to be more sustainable (29%), personalised (27%) and health-related (30%).  

Pet parents have already been making savvier nutritional choices, tailored to the individual needs of their pets, with joint and muscle (30%), general multivitamins (24%) and stress and anxiety-reducing supplements (18%) being the most popular supplements for owners to purchase.  

Trent Webb, Product Sales Data Expert at Pet Drugs Online adds: “Over the past 20 years, we’ve seen an increased trend of humanisation of pet care, particularly in the nutrition, dietary and health products that pet parents are purchasing. Dog parents’ approaches to purchasing pet supplements have evolved over the past ten years; while purchasing general multivitamins has decreased by 6%, sales of specific Nutritional Support supplements have increased by 231%. 

“One dog supplement that has stayed in consistent demand is Joint & Muscle. Category sales increased to 2% in 2021 after rising by 35% after 2020 but quickly returned to normal levels in recent years – it seems dogs have and will always have bad knees! 

“However, for cat parents, multivitamins prove the most popular of all supplements at 21%, but sales have reduced by 53% over the past decade. While demand for Gastrointestinal & Digestion supplements has seen ebbs and flows: rising by 36% in 2024, only to fall by 51% in 2025, supplements to help felines reduce their Stress & Anxiety are in the highest demand, rising by 1,703% in five years.” 

Over the past 20 years, there has also been a major shift from standard kibble to premium, organic, raw and speciality diets (such as grain-free, vegan, hypoallergenic).  

According to Trent Webb, “Pet parents want variety, and we’ve seen them purchasing from 283% more food brands than they did ten years ago!” 

As in human health, stress is a hot topic both for people and their pets.  

“Stress-reducing supplements remain the go-to for pet owners, but specific foods dedicated to supporting our four-legged friends are gaining ground” according to Trent Webb, “we’ve seen that owners who purchased Stress Relief Diffusers between 2020 and 2023, are repurchasing refills, indicating that they really see the benefits of calming scents and products that are designed to reduce stress in the home.” 

In general, 69% of pet parents feel optimistic about the future of pet care.  

Sarah Page-Jones concluded: “Pets are so much more than furry companions. They are members of the family whom we prioritise and care for as much as we would any other relative.  

“We’re excited to see what the future holds for pet care, hopefully helping both pets and owners to spend more time together, understand one another and improve all areas of health and wellbeing.”  

Dr. Scott Miller, one of television's favourite vets, will be joining The Cat Show Live. As one of the UK’s most recognised vets, he frequently appears on ITV’s This Morning, providing expert advice to millions of pet owners.

Originally from Australia, Dr. Scott’s career began at the RSPCA clinic in Sydney before he rose to prominence on the hit TV series Animal Hospital.

With over two decades of clinical experience and a deep commitment to animal welfare, Dr. Scott joins The Cat Show Live 2025 as one of our hosts and expert speakers. Known for his compassionate, down-to-earth approach, he’ll be leading discussions on everything from feline health to behaviour and responsible ownership.

“I’m really looking forward to being part of The Cat Show Live at the NEC. Anyone who knows me knows I’ve got a real soft spot for cats — they’re independent, unpredictable, and completely captivating. It’ll be a brilliant day out celebrating all things feline, and I can’t wait to meet fellow cat enthusiasts for a good chat, a few cuddles (with the cats, of course!), and plenty of fun.” stated Dr Scott

Whether treating rescue cats or chatting on screen about our favourite companions, Dr. Scott’s passion for improving animal lives makes him a brilliant addition to this year’s show at the NEC Birmingham.

The Cat Show Live 2025 will take place at The NEC on 13th September. For more information, including event details, ticketing and updates, visit their official website www.thecatshowlive.com.

Natures Deli offers a complete and carefully curated treat range with options to suit dogs at every life stage.

With a variety of delicious, nutritious treats made from wholesome recipes, there is no compromise on quality.

Most of the Natures Deli treats are grain or gluten-free, and all are free from artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, making them an excellent choice for owners who want the best for their dogs.

The range has something to suit every dog’s taste and texture preference - from Tasty Treats and Training Treats to Soft-Baked Biscuits and Crunchy Biscuits. Made using premium cuts and naturally nutritious ingredients, our treats are high in vital proteins and help support gut health. Many options also offer added benefits, such as hypoallergenic recipes or supporting stool quality.

Tasty Treats and Training Treats are made from choice cuts and oven-roasted in their own juices for maximum flavour, whilst Crunchy and Soft-Baked Biscuits are made with simple, wholesome, grain-free recipes featuring real meat.

We also offer a range of complementary grain-free, gluten-free, and hypoallergenic paste treats. These come in convenient 100g resealable pouches, making them perfect for training or on-the-go treating, and allow for multiple uses when stored in the fridge. Available in popular flavours like Peanut Butter, Chicken, Liver, Salmon, Sweet Potato, and our newest addition, Duck.

Natures Deli understand that dogs are an important and beloved member of the family. That’s why we carefully craft nutritious, tasty dog food and treats free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. Each dry dog food, treat, or wet tray is developed with high-quality ingredients and is available in various flavours and varieties that dogs will love at any stage of their life.

Offering strong retailer margins, the treats retail from just £3.49 per pack, making Natures Deli a great choice for your store. With a range of impactful Point of Sale materials, there are solutions to suit all types of stores, helping to boost visibility and drive sales across the full range. 

Under the Petello brand umbrella - home to other high-quality dog food and treat brands such as Nobbly’s, Doodle’s Deli and Yak Cheese Dog Chews - Natures Deli is exclusively available to the specialist pet trade via Pedigree Wholesale.

Visit https://petproducts.co.uk/natures-deli/ or speak to your Pedigree Wholesale Representative to find out more.

The Buffalo Co, renowned for its premium natural dog treats and commitment to canine wellbeing, has launched its latest innovation – the Thermacool Dog Bowl range. Combining smart design with cutting-edge cooling technology, these bowls are set to redefine the standard for pet hydration and feeding.

Developed with both pets and owners in mind, the Thermacool range features a unique double-walled construction and temperature-retaining core, designed to keep water and food cooler (or warmer) for hours – even on the hottest days. Perfect for home use, road trips, or sunny garden lounging, the bowls help ensure dogs stay cool, refreshed, and healthy throughout the day.

“At The Buffalo Co, we’ve always been about enhancing the everyday lives of our pets. With Thermacool, we’re bringing innovation to the dog bowl – because fresh hydration shouldn’t be an afterthought,” said Jonathon Moyce, Founder of The Buffalo Co. “This range is all about comfort, safety, keeping it fresh, and a bit of cool style, too.”

Key Features of the Thermacool Dog Bowl Range:

• Thermacool™ Cooling Layer – Keeps contents cooler for up to 4 hours. SGS tested.
• Non-slip Base – Designed to stay put, even with the most enthusiastic eaters.
• Durable, BPA-Free Materials – Safe, tough, and easy to clean.Dishwasher Safe
• Multiple Sizes & Colours – From small pups to big breeds, there’s a Thermacool™ for every dog.
• Retail display stand available, holding up to 72 Bowls.

The bowls will be launched at PATS trade show in September (Stand L87), and available in independent pet retailers and Garden Centres across the UK and Ireland very soon. 

Trade Accounts: info@thebuffaloco.co.uk 

Following the successful opening of its Bourton-on-the-Water store, DOG by Just for Pets has launched a new designer website. 

The award-winning chain has gone online offering customers 10% off their first order using code DESIGNER1O.

Curated with care and style in mind, dogonline.co.uk brings together an exclusive selection of premium products from leading designer brands such as BOSS, Barbour, Purdey, Tommy Hilfiger, Pampeano, and more. Whether it’s a statement collar, a luxurious dog bed, or everyday essentials with a designer touch, everything we offer is chosen  for quality, comfort, and timeless style.

Paul Lewis, Managing Director, said: “Our roots are grounded in the Cotswolds, where our DOG by Just for Pets boutique locations are loved for their unique blend of expertise, charm, and elevated pet care. DogOnline.co.uk builds on this foundation to offer a nationwide destination for dog lovers seeking the best for their companions.”

He continued: “We pride ourselves on delivering an exceptional customer experience, with trusted advice, carefully selected collections, and pet wellbeing in mind— whether you’re at home or visiting one of our boutique stores.”

As well as a variety of household designer names DOG also offers a comprehensive range of leather collards and leads that are carefully crafted in the Cotswolds using the finest Italian leather and responsibly sourced wool felt. 

Take a look at the full range today www.dogonline.co.uk

DotDotPet, the award winning pet care brand known for its innovative and health-focused products, has announced that its full product range is now available in Jollyes pet stores across the UK.

This exciting partnership brings DotDotPet’s products – including wellness supplements, calming shampoos and eco-friendly accessories – to even more pet parents through one of the UK’s leading pet retail chains.

“We’re proud to be joining the shelves of Jollyes, a trusted name in pet care,” said Harry Chapman, General Director at DotDotPet. “Our mission is to make pet parenthood a walk in the park, and this partnership helps us reach even more families who want the very best for their pets.”

DotDotPet products are now available in-store and online at www.jollyes.co.uk.

According to Dog Friendly there are currently 65,000 (and growing at pace) dog-friendly establishments in the UK (cafes, restaurants, hotels, shops, farm shops, garden centres…) to accommodate the fact that 36% of UK households now own a dog.

Elsewhere crisps, nuts and all manner of alternative savoury bites generate + £24m for UK pubs, with 20% of pub goers regularly dabbling with some variety of nibbly treat that are incidentally becoming increasingly gourmet (e.g. snacks that pair with your favourite tipple…).   

This begs the question is the gourmet treats for your 4-legged friend opportunity being missed?  We’re not talking about the random jar of bone-shaped biscuits that might sit uninvitingly at the bar, we’re talking about a truly tasty nut butter themed treat with added nutritional worth.

Step forward human snacking pioneers, The Protein Ball Co who have created a protein-rich treat for discerning dogs (It’s The Dogs) who like to frequent the same pubs, bars and hotels as their pet parents.

According to It’s The Dog’s spokesperson, Naomi Newland, "initial trials within indie pubs have gone very well, in fact we’ve already secured a 30-strong listing within one of the South coast region’s on-trade heroes and are already in discussions with a some of the UK’s ‘big hitter’ pub groups."

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CSJ’s founder Ceri Rundle says: "We are loving our stockist Wirral Dog Food’s new window art."

James Beattie had announced in April that after 12 years the hugely successful retailer was moving at Easter to new shop front premises in Bebington … and now with its fantastic specially commissioned window art by signsbyjames there’s certainly no missing it!

Wirral Dog Food describe themselves as 100% independent. 100% natural. Working dog specialists. CSJ stockist.

They explain their keys to success as, “You won't find any sales people here - only 'dog people'. 

"We have decades of experience in handling, training, competing and breeding dogs. We are 4* licensed breeders of working German Shepherds and Cocker Spaniels, and we know very well that great food is the key to great health, condition and even good behaviour. 

"We are the North West's approved stockists and distributers of CSJ Working Dog Food, which is the food that inspired us to set up our business after we saw the difference that it made to our dogs health, longevity and quality of life. If you would like to try it too, call in for a free sample. 

"We understand that every dog is different. We aim to be your trusted advisor throughout your dog’s life, helping you to adapt your feeding through every phase of their life.”

CSJ’s Ceri added: “As dedicated dog people ourselves who started our business through the need for a great quality food at a sensible price for our working Border Collies we wish them well and have no doubt about Wirral Dog Food’s continued success.”

You’ll find them at: 234 Bebington Road, Bebington. CH42 7QF. 0151 647 3177. www.wirraldogfood.com  info@wirraldogfood.com

For more on CSJ products visit www.csjk9.com or call 01745710470

Hikari, exclusively available to the UK specialist pet trade via Pedigree Wholesale, has been named Brand of the Year at the prestigious World Branding Awards Animalis Edition 2025.

This marks another milestone for Hikari, a brand renowned for its scientifically formulated, specialist aquatic diets. Since 2019, Hikari has been the only ornamental fish food brand in Japan to win the National Tier Award three consecutive times, and now celebrates its fourth successive win with the Regional Tier Award.

Founded in Japan, Hikari began with nutrition developed for Nishikigoi (Koi), Japan’s national fish, and has since expanded to a comprehensive range of species-specific diets. Today, the brand is available in over 70 countries through an extensive global distribution network, distributed exclusively in the UK by Pedigree Wholesale.

The World Branding Regional Tier Award is presented to brands that are leaders in several countries within a particular geographic region, offering clear recognition of the brand’s leading share of the ornamental fish food market in Japan and its increasing global influence. 

A spokesperson from Hikari said: “We would like to express our gratitude to our worldwide distributors who have been making efforts to distribute and promote our products, and to our customers and hobbyists who have been patronising our products. We will continue our efforts to provide attractive Hikari® brand products in the future.”

Hikari® is also proud to announce that all 3 factories have obtained an ISO 22000 certification, making them the first ornamental fish food facilities in Japan to do so. This food safety management standard highlights Hikari’s® approach to quality, including extensive research and feeding trials conducted at its own Aquatic Laboratory. These high standards ensure the brand continues to meet the complex requirements of markets such as the EU, USA, Australia, and China.

For retailers, Hikari offers excellent profit margins and a wide range of impactful Point of Sale materials tailored to all types of stores, helping to boost visibility and drive sales across the full range. 

Hikari is exclusively available to the UK specialist pet trade via Pedigree Wholesale.

Visit https://petproducts.co.uk/hikari/ or speak to your Pedigree Wholesale Representative to find out more.

There’s something unmistakably British about firing up the BBQ at the first sign of sunshine. But whilst we’re indulging, it’s essential to remember our furry friends.  

Tempting as it may be to share those freshly grilled treats, many BBQ favourites can be harmful to our pets. Petplan vet, Dr Brian Faulkner (MRCVS), shares the foods and hazards we should be aware of this BBQ season, and the safety tips pet owners should be implementing. 

Are BBQ foods safe for pets? 

Whilst pets may beg for a helping of what’s on our plate, many BBQ staples such as burgers, sausages and chicken on the bone are high in fat and should not be given to pets. Eating too much fatty meat can upset their stomachs and lead to serious conditions like pancreatitis.  

Cooked bones are especially hazardous as they can splinter and puncture mouths or throats or potentially cause life-threatening blockages and perforations in the stomach and intestines.  

Although it is generally safe for dogs to eat sweetcorn, it should never be served on the cob. Similar to bones, it can pose a choking hazard and isn’t digestible, which can lead to blockages and perforations. 

Top 10 popular BBQ foods to avoid feeding pets: 

1. Fatty meats like burgers, sausages and hotdogs 

2. Corn on the cob due to the cob not being digestible 

3. Onions and garlic which are toxic to pets 

4. BBQ sauces and marinades often contain harmful ingredients  

5. Undercooked meat which can cause food poisoning 

6. Hot food can burn pets’ mouths  

7. Meat on the bone can lead to life-threatening perforations and blockages  

8. Guacamole avocado is toxic for pets 

9. Salty snacks can lead to salt poisoning  

10. Ice cream and lollies can contain sweeteners like xylitol, which can cause liver failure 

Dr Brian comments: “There are plenty of safe alternatives you can feed your pet in moderation if you want them to feel included in the BBQ. For example, set aside some plain chicken breast and cook this separately with no added oil or seasonings such as salt, chili, onion, or garlic. Alternatively, you can also set up a little pet-friendly treat in a slow feeder to keep them occupied from the smells of the BBQ.” 

BBQ safety tips for pet owners: 

It’s not just food that can be hazardous.  Open flames, grills, and BBQ essentials such as tin foil, cling film and skewers can also pose risks.  Here are some tips to keep your pet safe: 

• Keep pets away from BBQs - even after they’ve cooled down to prevent burns and smoke irritations 

• Dispose of food waste securely - pets love hunting for scraps from the floor where they can swallow foil and plastic, whilst skewers can harm paws and mouths  

• Say no to sharing and remind guests to avoid feeding pets table scraps 

Signs of food poisoning  

If you suspect your pet has eaten something harmful or notice any unusual behaviours, immediately consult with a vet. 

How to treat a burn on a cat or dog 

If your pet gets burnt, soothe the area with cool (not iced) water for 10–20 minutes and contact a vet. Keep your pet warm but don’t cover the burn with a blanket and avoid using creams. Instead cover the burn with cling film or a sterile dressing until you can get veterinary help. 

With a little planning and care, you can enjoy the summer BBQ season while keeping your furry friends safe. And if the unexpected happens, having the right pet insurance can provide valuable support in helping cover the cost of unexpected vet bills.   

Pet distributor Kennelpak has been put into administration by its owners – private equity firm Endless – with the loss of 51 jobs.

Kerry Bailey and Mark Thornton of BDO were appointed joint administrators of Kennelpak on Thursday (July 3).

The administrators have completed a “pre-pack” sale of the Yakers brand together with stock and other associated assets to Assisi Pet Care.

It has been announced that 51 people have been made redundant, including staff in business development, supply chain and marketing roles. The joint administrators say they are “exploring options” for the sale of the remaining assets of the company.

Kerry Bailey said: “Kennelpak is a well-established operator within the pet food sector. We are delighted to have secured a sale of the Yakers brand and continuity for the company’s suppliers and customers of a well-known brand.

“Regrettably, on appointment we have had to make 51 people redundant and we are supporting them to make their claims to the redundancy payments service.”

Wilsons Pet Food has unveiled a brand-new range of freshly prepared meals for dogs, proudly made in Scotland. Each recipe is packed with prime cuts of meat, wholesome ingredients, and boosted with prebiotics and probiotics for optimal gut health.

Designed to meet the rising demand from pet owners who want fresh, high-quality meals without freezer space required, the innovative pantry fresh range, offers the nutritional benefits of fresh food with the convenience of cupboard storage.

The natural range includes eight delicious recipes, featuring single-protein options like beef, lamb, chicken, and turkey, as well as dual-protein blends such as venison & duck or fish & beef. Each meal is made with 61% to 74% fresh meat and gently steam-cooked at low temperatures to preserve flavour and nutrients – without the need for artificial additives, preservatives, or binding agents.

Packed with wholefoods, superfoods, vitamins, minerals and pre and probiotics, the nutritionally complete meals contain all the key essential nutrients that a dog needs for optimum health. Carefully selected ingredients support digestive health, joint care and mobility, healthy skin and a glossy coat.  With grain free or wheat free recipes, Wilsons fresh is also an ideal option for dogs with sensitive tummies.   Dogs can enjoy tasty recipes such as Beef with sweet potato, seaweed and chia, or Lamb & Rice with green beans, carrot and seaweed. 

The range also features two puppy-specific recipes, tailored to support brain development, strong bones and healthy digestion, giving young dogs the best start in life.   

Craig Wallace, Managing Director at Wilsons, said of the launch: "Wilsons Fresh is our biggest investment to date—and one we’re incredibly proud of. To contribute to improved nutrition in pet food means a lot to me personally and the whole team.  We’ve already done this with our cold pressed natural dry dog food, offering a healthier alternative that we believe is better than so much out there, without costing the earth. And now with fresh, we believe this is a step on from the mainstream options, but again at great value for the high quality, and comparable in price to a tin of premium dog food."

"By creating meals that are pantry fresh, we’re giving pet owners and stockists the convenience of fresh, nutritious food without the need for freezer space, providing healthier options to help dogs thrive. 

The freshly prepared meals are suitable for dogs aged 2 months and over and come in convenient 380g pouches. RRP from £3.60 per pouch. Available in cases of eight, with RRP from £28.80. Designed for cupboard storage, the meals stay fresh for up to four days in the fridge once opened. 

For pet owners who like to tailor their dog’s mealtimes, the fresh recipes also work perfectly as a mixer or topper alongside Wilsons Cold Pressed dry dog food, offering a nutritious and balanced diet.

For stockist information on the new range of Wilsons fresh, visit trade.wilsonspetfood.co.uk or  contact the team at sales@wilsonspetfood.co.uk.  

An independent pet shop in Devon has been named Retailer of the Year in a local business award competition.

The Lyn Valley Dog House in village of Lynton, picked up the honour at the North Devon Business Awards.

The business, run by Jacquie Dove, was praised for carving out a successful niche with visitors and locals with a number of entrepreneurial ideas, including the supply of treat boxes to dog-friendly hotels and guest houses.

Jacquie said she was honoured to receive the award and proud that it shone a light on Lynton and Lynmouth.

Click here to watch Jacquie receiving her award.

PATS 2025 will stage the biggest event in its 16-year history when it moves to its new home of Hall 1 of the NEC Birmingham in September.

The Pet and Aquatics Trade Show will host more than 400 exhibitors at the event, which takes place over three days from Sunday, 28th September to Tuesday 30th September 2025.

Johnson’s Veterinary Products has exhibited at every PATS show since the exhibition launched in 2009 and knows the value of showcasing its new products at the event.

Here, the award-winning brand explains why it thinks PATS is such an important date in the pet trade calendar.

What are your recollections of the first PATS show at Sandown Park in 2009?

There was a real sense of buzz and enthusiasm surrounding the introduction of the new show format and its Southern location, which offered improved accessibility for retailers in that region. Attendance was strong and the event generated a lot of interest.

Can you remember what new products you unveiled at that first show?

The spotlight was on our flagship 4fleas® range along with the Clean ‘n’ Safe® and comprehensive shampoo ranges, all of which were showcased prominently as core offerings at the event (see picture above).

How has Johnson’s Veterinary Products developed since that first show?

Since then, Johnson’s has expanded significantly in both company size and product portfolio. We've consistently introduced new innovations that respond to evolving market trends. A major milestone was celebrating our centenary in 2021 – a proud moment marking 100 years of supporting pet owners and retailers.

Do you think exhibiting at every PATS show over the past 16 years has helped that development?

Absolutely! Exhibiting regularly at PATS has been instrumental in reinforcing our brand presence and underlining our ongoing dedication to independent pet shops across the UK. It’s been particularly valuable in championing pet healthcare, an area that often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves in keeping our pets happy and healthy.

Have you got a highlight from exhibiting at PATS?

There are countless standout moments – probably too many to single out just one! And a few we probably shouldn’t share here.

You’ve always been a keen supporter of the independent pet retailer, is that why you launched National Pet Shop Day™?

Yes, that was the key motivation. For over a century, we’ve supported independent pet shops across the UK, recognising their role in offering knowledgeable advice and services. National Pet Shop Day™ was created to honour their dedication and our way of giving back too. Now in its second year, and supported this year by national bodies PIF (Pet Industry Federation) and Bira (British Independent Retailers Association), the initiative continues to shine a spotlight on the passion and commitment of these local pet businesses. It's a celebration of the value of independent pet shops, not just as suppliers, but as pet health and wellbeing hubs offering trusted advice and meaningful customer care.

How successful has that campaign been?

The response has been incredible. In its first year, over 200 pet shops took part in a variety of ways – from community events to customer promotions – driving both loyalty and footfall. Momentum has only grown, with over 400 retailers already signed up for this year’s event. The 2025 campaign, launching on Saturday 12th July, is shaping up to be the biggest yet, thanks to enthusiastic support from both the pet product retailers and partners like PIF and Bira, who share our mission to drive more footfall to the high street and champion these businesses. And with every shop putting its own spin on the festivities, members of the public can look forward to even more creativity and fun-filled events across the UK, from special offers, expert drop-ins, competitions, parties and plenty of treats, for pets and their people alike. To find out more, visit our website at nationalpetshopday.com 

How much are you looking forward to this year’s show in Hall 1 at the NEC?

We’re thrilled to be exhibiting at the NEC. Being based in Birmingham, it’s right on our doorstep, which makes it extra convenient. We’re really looking forward to being part of the largest PATS show yet, reconnecting with friends and industry partners, and taking in all the excitement that comes with it.

Will you be unveiling new products at the show?

Yes, we’re excited to present our latest addition – Guardian® plus, an affordable pet healthcare range designed to complement our trusted and best-selling 4fleas® products. This new veterinary-strength, triple-action spot-on treatment for cats and dogs effectively tackles fleas, ticks, and lice, while also breaking the life cycle by preventing the development of eggs and larvae. The Guardian® plus range also includes our Guardian® Home Flea Spray, providing total protection in the home environment. Together, they offer an affordable, comprehensive solution for pet owners, combining ease of use with proven effectiveness.

Is it true Johnson’s Veterinary Products hasn’t missed a national trade exhibition during the past 50 years?

Johnson's Veterinary Products is proud of the fact it has never missed a national pet trade show since 1971 (see photo above of the first National Trade Show in Harrogate 1971). We don’t think any other company can lay claim to such a distinguished consecutive appearance record.

Make sure you don’t miss PATS 2025 where Johnson’s Veterinary Products will be on stand B43. Register for your free entry at www.patshow.co.uk now. 

BetterBone, an award-winning sustainable dog chew brand, will be launching the UK market at PATS in September.

BetterBone is redefining the dog chew category with a simple mission: to create the world’s safest and most sustainable dog chew – one that’s as good for dogs as it is for the planet. 

Made in the European Union, BetterBone chews are crafted using only two all-natural, food-grade ingredients, offering a cleaner, safer alternative to traditional nylon, plastic, rawhide, and other synthetic or chemically processed chews.

BetterBone chews come in three distinct chewing densities to suit every dog’s needs:

• Soft – Perfect for puppies, seniors, and gentle chewers.
• Medium – Great for everyday chewers of all sizes.
• Hard – Built for strong and determined chewers needing long-lasting engagement.

Each chew promotes dental health by gently reducing plaque and tartar build-up through natural chewing action – without risking microplastic ingestion or digestive harm.

BetterBone is launching in the UK in partnership with leading pet distributor Happy Pet.

BetterBone has been recognized by leading sustainability and pet industry organisations, including:

• Winner – Rawhide Alternative Product of the Year (2024 Independent Pet Innovation Awards)
• Top 20 Most Sustainable Pet Brands – Pet Sustainability Coalition (2024)
• Editor’s Choice Award – Pet Product News (2024)

These accolades reflect BetterBone’s commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability in every aspect of the business.

Retailers, buyers, and press are invited to visit the Happy Pet stand (J59) at PATS to explore BetterBone’s full product line.