Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd has announced that its chairman David Johnson passed away peacefully on July 21 in Good Hope Hospital, after a short battle with illness.

David joined the family business in 1970 after qualifying as a chartered accountant and became a highly respected figure within the UK pet trade. He oversaw the development and success of Johnson’s as it transitioned from local family business to international pet healthcare brand.

In a statement, Johnson’s said: “The loss of the company’s figurehead is keenly felt, following on so closely to the business celebrating 100 years of caring for the nation’s pets, in May 2021. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him, but especially his family, friends and colleagues.

“Not only was David responsible for turning Johnson’s Veterinary Products into one of the UK’s leading pet healthcare brands, but he worked tirelessly to help raise the profile and professional standards across all aspects of the UK pet trade.

“The company and the wider UK pet trade has lost one of the great champions of the industry and his passing reduces considerably the experience and expertise that has helped the business and the sector move forward to the respected positions both find themselves in today.”