Premium pet food manufacturer Cotswold RAW plans to relocate this summer following a £1million investment in new premises. The move is part of a substantial growth programme to meet increased demand for the popular high-quality raw meals, treats, and supplements for cats and dogs.

The new modern 30,000 sq ft premises, based in Bourton-on-the-Water, are just 15 miles from the original factory, supporting the company’s ambition to remain in the Cotswolds heartlands. Currently making over two million meals per annum; the new facility will see production capacity double.  

Mark Lewis, Managing Director at Cotswold RAW, said of the move: “Production capacity has been limited at the current North Cotswold site and it’s taken a two-year search to find the right location which aligns with our business needs.  We were determined to stay true to our Cotswold roots and keep our manufacturing in the countryside. It was also very important to retain our 30-strong loyal team, many of whom have been with us since the very start of our Raw journey”.

“The move will be transformative for the business, from the increased production capacity to improved team efficiency with all being together at one central location. Introducing a new digital adoption will also aid our growth with software, bringing teams, data and technology together to automate our processes. Capacity freezers and a separate unit for dispatch will also prove game changers for us”. 

Established in 2015 by co-founders Mark Lewis and Chris Brierley, Cotswold RAW uses high-quality, human-grade meats and local ingredients to produce a wide range of meals for dogs and cats. Ranges include complete recipes, complementary single-protein meals, recipes with game and an extensive range of treats with over seventy lines. There is also a range of supplements available. 

“With around 10% of dog owners now choosing to feed a raw diet, we’re thrilled to see so many choosing to feed dogs and cats fresher, better quality diets. It’s great to see our wholesome recipes make such an impact on the animal’s health and wellbeing”.

Cotswold RAW currently supplies over 500 UK retailers and delivers directly to 2,500 homes each month. 

“The independents continue to play a key role in educating pet owners on good nutrition, health benefits of quality ingredients and feeding guidance. Coverage across the independents remains hugely important to us,” explains Mark.

“As with any move of this scale, there will be some disruption, but we are determined to keep this to a minimum for our customers and will communicate the details of the move over the coming weeks. We plan to be fully transitioned into our new home by the start of September.”

The summer months are set to be busy for the team alongside the move, with preparation underway for a calendar of shows as Cotswold RAW takes to the road, introducing new customers to its best-of-class raw meals. Local shows kick off with The Game Fair held at Blenheim Palace, Glee, and close with PATS, Telford.

For further information on products available visit cotswoldraw.com or contact the trade team at retail@cotswoldraw.com. 

Leading private equity firm Inflexion has agreed to sell its investment in Lintbells, a globally recognised leader in YuMOVE pet supplements, to American company Vetnique Labs.

Hertfordshire-based Lintbells was founded almost two decades ago by Dr John Howie and John Davies, to provide pets and their owners with scientifically supported supplements to support chronic health conditions. 

Lintbells’ products are sold under the YuMOVE brand umbrella, encompassing the UK’s number one joint mobility supplement for dogs and cats, as well as supplements to support digestive health, anxiety, skin and coat, and dental.   

Since the 2017 investment, Inflexion’s in-house teams have supported Lintbells across a range of growth opportunities, including its expansion of the highly successful direct-to-consumer channel.  

Inflexion has also supported the successful expansion of Lintbells into the US both organically and through the acquisition of Walkin’ Pets. Earlier this year the firm achieved B Corp accreditation, reflecting its impressive ESG achievements. 

The investment period also facilitated the planned succession of co-founder John Howie, who set the business up in 2006, with Fiona Hope brought in as Chief Commercial Officer shortly after the Inflexion investment and taking over as CEO in 2022.   

Fiona Hope said: “Lintbells’ journey over the last few years has been one of high-quality growth. Inflexion’s backing and partnership enabled us not only to achieve our goals more quickly but to aspire to even greater ones. Their network was invaluable in expanding our digital capabilities and bringing our supplements to the US.”

She will continue to serve as CEO of YuMOVE, with responsibility for the UK, Europe, and rest of the world.

Malcolm Coffin, Partner and Head of Enterprise Fund, Inflexion, commented: “Lintbells has achieved tremendous growth during our investment, and we are particularly proud to have supported their successful entry into the US market. We wish Fiona and the team all the very best for the continued growth of the business.”

Vetnique develops a range of specialty pet products, which are vet-founded, vet-formulated and vet-recommended, including supplements and topical solutions for digestive health, allergy and dermatological support, and ear care. The company is best known for its Glandex supplement, which is North America's number one solution for anal gland disease.

The first-ever National Pet Shop Day will take place on Saturday (13th July) with more than 200 stores throughout the UK having registered to participate.

The event was launched by Johnson’s Veterinary Products as a way of celebrating the huge breadth of support, products, services and advice that high street retailers are able to provide direct to pet owners.

Johnson’s has encouraged pet shops and stores to throw open their doors and invite pet owners to come in and discover more about how they can offer viable, affordable options for dealing with commonly occurring minor ailments such as fleas, ticks, worms, or other general healthcare issues.

Paul Gwynn, Managing Director at Johnson’s Veterinary Products, explained: “Pet shops are the local health and wellbeing hubs of the pet world, but we find that many people are often so rooted to their longstanding routines, that they perhaps don’t even consider that they can also get experienced advice about a whole host of frequent minor pet healthcare issues whilst picking-up their other pet essentials in store.

“Pet shops and stores have a wealth of knowledge within their teams that has been built over many years, in some cases decades. They can often help to spot the signs of and give advice about fleas, ticks, worms and other minor healthcare problems and therefore are well placed to provide practical advice and product solutions for both these, and a range of other, more general, wellbeing concerns directly in store.

“With National Pet Shop Day, we want to mark the ongoing, positive contribution that these pet shops and stores make to society, and in doing so provide animal lovers with the confidence that they can handle their pet’s conditions effectively and efficiently, without always breaking the bank. These retailers are far more than simply a point of purchase – they are the bedrock of the pet owning community and are always ready and willing to help.”

Paul’s son Matt added: “The response to National Pet Shop Day has exceeded my first year's expectations. There are over 200 shops that have registered to take part across the UK now, which shows there is considerable interest in this national day. We've had great interaction with pet shops on social media, especially on Instagram and it's great to see what the shops have planned.”

For more details visit www.nationalpetshopday.com

Pedigree Wholesale has announced the sad passing of its co-founder Derek Slater. Derek, alongside his wife Carol, were one of the original co-founders of Pedigree Wholesale, alongside Terry Brown and his wife Wendy. 

The four of them worked tirelessly together to launch the company in 1972 and built the foundations of the business.

The company issued the following statement:

“During this difficult time, the Pedigree Wholesale family extends its deepest sympathies to Derek's family and friends. Whilst we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his life and remember the influence his collective vision has had not just on Pedigree Wholesale, but on the entire pet sector. We are grateful for his leadership, his wisdom, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

“Under Derek and Terry's guidance, Pedigree Wholesale has grown significantly over the years, and Derek's legacy will be forever embedded in the company's values. He instilled a sense of pride and commitment in everything we do, encouraging us to be courageous in our work, focused on our goals, and accountable for our actions. 

“Derek stepped down as joint Managing Director in 1997, after 25 years of dedicated service, but his vision continued to guide the company. He created a connected community within the company and with our customers, reflecting his passion for pets and his dedication to helping retailers deliver the very best to their customers.

“We extend our deepest condolences to all those who knew Derek, and details of his funeral to celebrate his life and achievements will be shared in the coming weeks.”

Following the launch of its market investigation into the vets sector, the Competition and Markets Authority has published an issues statement which sets out the Inquiry Group’s initial theories on what might be affecting competition in the sector and the potential solutions or ‘remedies’ that could be considered.

These reflect the concerns and potential remedies set out during the CMA’s market review. The issues statement covers the types of further evidence the Group plans to collect in order to test these theories and explore any remedies needed.

The issues statement does not set out any findings or conclusions at this early stage of the investigation – it is for the Group to determine whether there are competition concerns in the market and how best to address them.

In determining its initial areas of focus, the Group – chaired by Martin Coleman – has considered all the work carried out so far, including evidence gathered during the market review and responses to the consultation on whether to launch a market investigation.

The Group will gather a wide range of evidence including information from veterinary professionals and businesses of all sizes, suppliers to those businesses, regulators and pet owners. The Group plans to hold hearings and roundtables, visit veterinary practices and referral hospitals to understand the vet sector more fully, and publish working papers to share its emerging thinking at certain points in the investigation.

At this early stage in the investigation, publishing this issues statement will assist those submitting evidence to focus on the issues the Group is most concerned about. As the investigation progresses, further issues may be identified.

The CMA must generally conclude a market investigation within 18 months from the date that the reference is made (with a potential additional 6 months for putting remedies in place) and the final report is expected by November 2025 at the latest.

The consultation on this issues statement is open until midnight on 30 July 2024 and responses should be sent to vetsMI@cma.gov.uk. The Group will consider the views it receives as part of its ongoing investigation. 

For more information, including the full administrative timetable and members of the Inquiry Group, visit the Vets case page. This page includes a video of Martin Coleman, Chair of the Inquiry Group, and a member of the case team answering questions about the investigation.

PetQuip has announced that the trade association will be organising a UK group of companies at Zoomark from 5 to 7 May 2025, in Bologna, Italy.

Promising to be ‘bigger and bolder’ in 2025, Zoomark is set to be Europe’s leading international meeting place next year for pet industry manufacturers and distributors, hosting over 1,000 exhibitors from 57 countries and over 28,000 visitors from 120 countries.

“We are excited to be taking a British group of exhibitors to Zoomark in 2025 – our companies did incredible business at the last edition in 2023. The organisers have announced several new initiatives, reflecting the innovative sector that the event operates in as well as demonstrating the dynamism and connection of this event,” commented Emma Brazier, PetQuip Event Manager.

“We have already sold over 250sqm of our 2025 space, so I would encourage companies who are interested in exhibiting as part of the prominent UK pavilion with all its logistical and promotional benefits to get in touch immediately”.

PetQuip has secured a prime location in Hall 26, with exhibition packages available to suit individual companies’ requirements. PetQuip supports the group with logistics, marketing, PR and stand facilities at the event.

For more information, contact emma@petquip.com

For details of PetQuip membership, email info@petquip.com or visit www.petquip.com

Henry Bell’s new product range, made from nutritious insect oil to support wild bird health and vitality, has been met with a fantastic response from the industry. 

Insect Oil is an important addition to the Henry Bell Wild Bird Care’s suet collection and perfectly aligned to the company’s commitment to sustainable ingredients and green credentials.

Henry Bell Insect Oil harnesses the natural goodness found in Black Soldier Fly Larvae, using it as a main base ingredient instead of traditional beef tallow.

Insects play a key role in a wild bird’s diet and Henry Bell Insect Oil serves to replicate this natural nutrition in products across its range of insect oil suet logs and balls.

They are great for the bird’s immune system and packed full of vitamins and lauric acid to promote strong feather growth, aid weight gain and boost metabolism.

Insect Oil products feature more Vitamin B12 than salmon, twice as much protein as beef and chicken, and 10 times more calcium than beef.

“The products are fantastic news for our sector and I am delighted that Henry Bell is ahead of the curve with this revolutionary feed innovation,” said Tony Clare, Henry Bell Wild Bird Care Commercial Director.

“We introduced Insect Oil to our customers as part of a soft launch back in May and sales have been very encouraging. The products sit very nicely in Henry Bell’s extensive portfolio of premium feeds and accessories, providing retailers and consumers with an attractive alternative option – one that’s good for our birds and kind to the planet, too.”

Retailers interested in stocking the Insect Oil range or needing further information, should email enquiries@henrybell.co.uk.

Up-and-coming pet health supplement company, PAWD DRINKS is lending its support to National Pet Hydration Month which traditionally takes place in July each year and raises the awareness of proper hydration for our furry friends, specifically dogs.

Although the summer in the UK has been somewhat mild this year, The Met Office is forecasting a heat wave towards the end of July again so it is important to be aware of keeping your pets hydrated.

Just like humans, pets need plenty of water to maintain optimal health but this is often overlooked by pet parents and this can lead to health issues which can be easily avoided. Although we associate proper hydration in the warmer months, it is important all year round and dogs can become dehydrated even sitting by the fire in the winter or from their daily exercise.

Hydration is the process of providing adequate water to the body to ensure it functions properly, supporting digestion and nutrient absorption and regulating body temperature. Pets can suffer from severe health problems such as kidney and urinary tract issues if they become dehydrated. Signs of dehydration include lack of energy, dry gums, and loss of appetite. A well-hydrated dog should have a healthier skin and coat and reduced dryness and itchiness. Additionally, well-hydrated pets tend to have more energy and vitality.  Hydration can aid in weight management, as it helps pets feel fuller, potentially reducing overeating.

How much water you give your dog depends on its size, age, diet, and the climate they live in. Obviously larger dogs will require more water than smaller ones and an active dog will require more hydration. 

Pets fed on a dry food diet will need more water than those that eat wet food. This is because wet food contains more moisture than dry food, making it easier for pets to stay hydrated.

It is important to give a dog the right amount of water each day so that they do not become over- hydrated which can be equally as dangerous as being dehydrated so it is important to monitor a dog’s intake each day and make sure it is not drinking too much water from garden sprinklers, paddling pools etc. which are out in the summer months. When out and about take a bottle of water with you to give your dog, add water to their meals and always give your dog fresh clean water.

PAWD DRINKS is a new revolutionary and groundbreaking range of liquid health supplements, scientifically crafted to target the common health issues faced by our beloved dogs. These innovative products are the result of extensive research and development by world-leading animal nutritionists including Dr. Farshad Goodarzi Boroojeni and are veterinary-approved. Each formula has been carefully crafted to not only address specific health concerns but also contribute to the overall well-being of our four-legged friends.  PAWD DRINKS are pH neutral and contain no acidifiers or preservatives.

The drinks market for pets is relatively new but growing and PAWD DRINKS tackle a number of important areas. As well as hydration and wellness, PAWD DRINKS are absorbed more quickly andefficiently by a dog's body compared to pills, powders and chews.  This is important when addressing certain health or behavioural issues and when you need a fast result. Administering liquid supplements to dogs is easier than giving them pills or chews, especially for dogs that are finicky eaters or have difficulty swallowing. Liquid supplements can be mixed into their food or water, making it less likely for dogs to detect and refuse them. You can also customise dosage. They are palatable, achieve faster results and are gentle on the digestive system. PAWD DRINKS are less likely to cause irritation or discomfort compared to some pill formulations.

PAWD DRINKS Joints has been formulated to address stiffness and joint mobility with up to 80% of all dogs suffering from some form of mobility issues over the age of 8. PAWD DRINKS Joints contains natural ingredients, such as ginger and devil’s claw root to support joint mobility. 

PAWD DRINKS Calming will help to relax and soothe your dog in any anxious situations. This can be in the form of separation, social, travel or noise anxiety, with around 50% of dogs showing significant fear in response to thunder or fireworks.

So as well as helping to keep your pet hydrated, you can tackle some of the many problems that affect dogs helping to improve their overall wellness.

Costs:  Feed a dog from £1.99 a day, 28 bottles £55.99. Subscription deals are available.

For further information visit: www.pawddrinks.com

Exploring the most common health problems in pet rabbits in the UK, new research from the Royal Veterinary College reveals unnatural body shapes along with inadequate diet and exercise as having strong links with poorer health in rabbits. 

These insights will support ongoing efforts to enhance pet rabbit welfare in the UK, helping owners to recognise and prevent common disorders and providing veterinary professionals with more information around the causes of commonly diagnosed disorders.

As the largest study of its kind on pet rabbits in the world, the RVC’s VetCompass team explored the body shape of 162,017 rabbits under first opinion veterinary care during 2019. The results showed that 79.7% of rabbits with breed information recorded were classified as short-headed (brachycephalic); 16.8% as medium-headed (mesaticephalic); and only 3.51% as long-headed (dolichocephalic). Long-headed rabbits are most similar in body shape to wild rabbits, showing just how much we have changed the furry rabbit friends that we keep as pets today from their original natural conformation.

The RVC team was led by Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology; Dr Joanna Hedley, Senior Lecturer in Exotic Species and Small Mammal Medicine and Surgery; and Dr Abbie Williams, who was then a final year RVC veterinary student. These researchers also examined the full veterinary clinical records of a random sample of 3,933 rabbits, identifying the frequency of the most common health disorders by first opinion veterinary practitioners across the UK. The most common disorders were overgrown nails (28.19%), overgrown molars (back teeth) (14.9%) and obesity (8.82%) – all of which can be linked to limited exercise and unnatural diets.

Additional findings include that:

• 50.27% of the study population was recorded as a specific single breed (type) of rabbit, with the remaining 49.72% recorded as either an unspecified cross between various rabbit types or just as a rabbit.
• 57.05% of rabbits with breed information recorded were classified as lop-eared, a feature that does not commonly occur in nature, with only 42.95% being erect-eared.
• The average adult bodyweight of rabbits overall was 2.26kg.
• Additional common health disorders were identified as dirty bottom (perineal faecal impaction) (7.4%); undiagnosed disorder (6%); not eating (5.77%); gastro-intestinal stasis (5.52%); and tear duct abnormality (3.48%).
• Female rabbits were more prone to obesity while male rabbits were more prone to dental and eye disorders.
• Rabbits classified as short-headed had higher risk of tear duct abnormality, haircoat disorder and dirty bottoms, compared to medium-headed rabbits.
• Rabbits with lop ear carriage had higher risk of dirty bottoms and tear duct abnormality compared to rabbits with an erect-ear carriage.
• The average life span for rabbits was determined as five years and did not differ depending on the sex or skull shape of the rabbit. However, erect-eared rabbits had a longer average life span compared to lop-eared rabbits.

Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at RVC, and lead author of the paper, said: “This new study helps us to understand that the health of our pet rabbits is heavily dependent on the choices we make as owners. Whether that be the body shapes of the rabbits we choose to acquire or the food and exercise we choose to allow our pet rabbits to enjoy, we play an important and influential role in determining whether their health is good or poor.

“This research also tells us that we have the power to improve the lives of our much-loved pet rabbits. Greater awareness by owners on the importance firstly of choosing a rabbit with a more natural body shape and then later on of the value of conducting regular health and cleanliness checks, along with providing good diet and exercise, particularly for unnaturally short-headed or lop-eared rabbits, can make a significant difference to their overall health and quality of life.”

Dr Joanna Hedley, Senior Lecturer in Exotic Species and Small Mammal Medicine and Surgery at RVC, and co-author of the paper, said: “It is great to have this new research highlighting the common problems seen in pet rabbits. At the RVC’s Beaumont Sainsbury Animal Hospital, our exotic and small mammal specialists see many of these health issues, which can be easily preventable with the right husbandry or treatable if identified at an early stage.

Janet Hughes, Commercial Director at Agria Pet Insurance, said: “We hope this research will help owners make more informed decisions when acquiring their pet rabbit and throughout their care, leading to happier and healthy owners and rabbits.”

“This VetCompass study into common conditions in rabbits gives a very welcome insight into the very real challenges our pets face, often based on why we choose the pets we do. We're truly grateful to the VetCompass team and all of the practices involved for enabling potential owners to understand more about choosing a healthy pet who will live a full, happy life. It's this educational, research and welfare-led approach makes us proud to support VetCompass and the important work that they do."

Dog biscuit expert Pointer has launched Dog Treasure Hunts across the country where dogs of all breeds and their humans are taking part in a two-week event for a day of tricks, treats, and tail-wagging excitement.

This event, created by Pointer, is set to be more than just a walk in the park. The dog biscuit makers are challenging four-legged friends to embark on a thrilling treasure hunt where they can perform tricks, sniff out treats and show off their recall skills to earn delicious treats.

Each successful step of the Treasure Hunt brings them closer to the ultimate prize – a grand treasure chest filled with goodies for both owner and their furry friend. This will include a £20 voucher, a poo bag dispenser and treat bag, a dog toy and loads of Pointer goodies.

Participants will be encouraged to snap a picture with their certificate at the end of the Treasure Hunt and upload it to social media using the hashtag #PointerTreasureHunt. A winner from each location will be chosen at random, but the freebies don’t stop there! Alongside being able to sample treats during the hunt itself, everyone who participates and takes a photo will be given a £5 voucher, redeemable online against Pointer pet products.

The Pointer Treasure Hunt will run at the following fields until 20th July:

• Puptopia, Bradford BD4 0RE
• The Dog Park, Rainhill L35 6NZ
• Pawpounders Park, Sutton Coldfield B75 5QX
• Walkies, Buntingford SG9 0PH
• Adlington Dog Field, Macclesfield SK10 4PH
• Disney Dog Field, Lincoln LN6 9JU
• Southwell Secure Dog Field, Newark NG22 8DA
• Cundall Dog Park, Cundall, YO61 2RL
• The Paw Park, Hawick TD9 8PN
• Moore’s Paws, Taunton TA4 1AL

Cassandra Brennan, Senior Marketing Executive, at Pointer said: “The Pointer way is to create fun, lasting experiences for our furry friends with tasty treats. The Treasure Hunt is an expansion of this. We are giving dogs up and down the country a fun challenge that will see them getting to run free, use their noses, and of course – their wit! We’re so excited to see the pictures and choose our champions.”

Treasure Hunt tubs will be located at all participating fields. Owners are encouraged to set up the Treasure Hunt themselves according to their dog’s ability, using the items provided and the complimentary Pointer treats. Then, Pointer is asking that owners return the items back to the box after use so other owners can get involved.

The Pointer Treasure hunt will run from 6th July – 20th July 2024. More information can be found at @PointerPetProducts on Instagram.

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Former Pets at Home boss Peter Pritchard has taken up the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer at German giant Fressnapf Holding SE.

With over 1,400 stores and 8,000 employees in 12 European countries Fressnapf is arguably the largest European pet product retailer.

Peter Pricthard said on his Linkedin page: “I am happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Interim Chief Executive Officer at Fressnapf Holding SE.

“I have worked with Fressnapf for many years, and I am very much looking forward to working with Torsten and the Fressnapf team to build the best pet supplies retailer in the world and unleash the full potential of Fressnapf/Maxi Zoo.”
 
Peter will now start to familiarise himself with the organization and, in addition to the headquarters in Krefeld, will visit the stores and colleagues throughout Europe.
 
He was Group Chief Executive Officer of Pets at Home between 2018 and 2022.

CSJ has welcomed Yvette Moore to its team as Area Representative.

Based in the East Midlands, Yvette is a well-known face in the trade and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience after over 22 years dedication to the industry.

Yvette worked for Kennelpack for 17 years, starting her career in their retail stores, then leaving her manager’s position to progress into their sales team in 2010 as Sales and Nutrition Advisor.

In 2017 she joined Roger Skinner Ltd as their Area Sales Manager for East Midlands and North West until 2022 when she left due to family needs.

CSJ is respected in the trade for their grass roots expertise and understanding of the needs of dogs – from founder Ceri Rundle’s world-renowned sheepdog trialling to other team members’ activities in gundogs, show, agility, breeding, pets, sled-dogs … the list goes on … 

Yvette is no exception, with an English Springer Spaniel which she occasionally takes out beating plus two yellow Labradors, a black Labrador and a Shitzu the company ethos continues to be ‘all about dogs’.

Yvette says, “I’m so excited to be back in sales and joining the CSJ family and I’m look forward to building relationships with old and new customers.”

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

Independent retailers across Britain are calling on Sir Keir Starmer's new Labour government to prioritise high street revival in a special episode of Bira's 'High Street Matters' podcast.

Bira, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, launched the podcast series earlier this year. Previous episodes have explored issues such as shop crime and accessibility.

This latest instalment focuses on the recent general election and its implications for independent retailers.

The 'General Election Special' episode features a panel of independent retailers sharing their hopes and concerns for the high street under the new Labour administration.

Hosted by journalist Steve Dyson, the podcast includes insights from Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre and other prominent retailers.

Mr Goodacre said: "Labour has come in on a vote for change. We will be asking the Labour government to deliver positive change for our sector by reducing the burden of business rates, reducing retail crime and increasing investment in our towns and high streets. We also hope that a new government with a large majority will bring about stability, which in turn will boost consumer confidence and consumer spending."

The podcast features several independent retailers, each highlighting critical issues facing the high street.

Surinder Josan of All Seasons DIY in Smethwick, West Midlands, discussed the impact of 'stealth taxes' such as parking fines and double yellow lines.

He said: "Last year was one of the worst I have known in our 50-year history. My message to the new government is to recognise the importance of the high street to the economy. We currently feel that we are so far down the pecking order, we aren't really appreciated and no one is really listening to what we are saying."

John Jones, managing partner of Philip Morris & Sons in Hereford, emphasised the need for business rates reform. He said: "We are a very old and long-established business, going for 180 years now. Revenue is steady, but it is hard work. You need to put in every effort to get every penny in from customers."

Mr Jones called for a change in the business rates system, noting that temporary measures don't allow for long-term planning.

Karen Forret, MD of Wilkies, a Scottish independent multiple retailer trading for over 125 years, highlighted concerns about the rising minimum wage and lack of offsetting measures.

She said: "There are a few huge challenges for all businesses but especially retail. We have a huge rising piece of living wage, there is nothing to offset that. Ultimately, anything the government can do to protect the high street and what they do for the economy would be welcome."

Mr Goodacre summarised Bira's campaign priorities, which align closely with the concerns raised by these retailers. These include reforming business rates, implementing policies to drive economic growth, and accelerating investment in high streets.

Independent retailers across the UK can subscribe to the "High Street Matters" podcast through major streaming platforms to hear these views in full.

New episodes will be released throughout the year, covering issues such as the sale of hazardous substances, the cycle to work scheme, and many other themes relevant to retailers today.

For more information on Bira's mission supporting Britain's independent retailers, visit www.bira.co.uk.

With more than 37 years’ experience, VETIQ is committed to providing pets with calming support.

Cat anxiety is very common and is often overlooked by pet owners as a cat’s behaviour differs and is harder to spot than dog anxiety.  However, it is a big issue for pet owners with 44% of UK cat owners reporting that their cats are showing signs that may be indicative of stress.

To help address this problem, the VETIQ Serene Calming range has recently launched a new calming pheromone portable diffuser for cats, the first in Europe. The new portable diffuser is a 100% natural and is a transparent holder with a liquid pheromone cartridge that releases relaxing scents into the air to relax and pacify cats and kittens naturally without the sedative effect.  

The cartridge works quickly and lasts for 30 days.  Refills are available and sold separately. The di­ffuser calms and soothes cats & kittens when they experience separation anxiety, anxiousness, hyperactivity and is suitable for all ages, sizes and breeds. The calming diffuser is scientifically proven to help reduce marking, scratching, and meowing as your cat calms.

The VETIQ range will be showcased on the Mark and Chappell stand (G12) at PATS from Sunday, 29^thSeptember to Tuesday, 1^st October 2024.

PATS 2024 will see the biggest-ever gathering of pet professionals when it opens its doors to visitors in just under three months’ time.

So far, 331 companies, supplying pet food and accessories, pet grooming, aquatics, reptiles and watergardening, will be showcasing their products and services in front of what promises to be a record-breaking audience of buyers.

In 2024, PATS - the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show - takes place over three days at the Telford International Centre in Shropshire on Sunday 29^th, Monday 30^th September and Tuesday 1^st October 2024, providing buyers with so many networking opportunities over the longer three-day period.

 “The response to PATS 2024 as an all-encompassing three-day exhibition has been fantastic,” said organiser Gordon Thomas. “The UK’s major pet and aquatics companies have booked their space, with many of them taking larger stands, alongside a growing number of start-up businesses and international exhibitors.

“PATS prides itself on being the place where the pet and aquatics industry meet to do business. This year’s exhibition is poised to set so many records, from the biggest number of exhibitors and visitors, to the largest-ever showcase of new products in the show’s 15 year history.

Register for free entry now at www.patshow.co.uk.   

Here is a taste of the visitor features at PATS 2024:

• The biggest ever New Product Showcase and Awards
• Dedicated Aquatics Zone for reptile, aquatics and watergardening specialists
• New Starter Zone for start-ups and new businesses
• Unrivalled show offers and competitions
• Grooming Workshop including insightful demonstrations, competitions and talks
• Fantastic networking opportunities
• Free entry, free show catalogue, free parking for up to 1,300 cars and a complimentary tea/coffee voucher.
• 331 exhibitors booked so far

Leading trade association PetQuip, which has been working with PATS to tempt international pet retail chains and distributors to the Autumn showpiece, will be staging its prestigious PetQuip Awards after the second day of the exhibition. Reflecting the dynamism of the UK petcare sector, the annual awards recognise and reward the energy, achievement and innovation realised within the pet trade over the past year.

You can find a full list of exhibitors and information on how to reach the venue at www.patshow.co.uk

Nationwide pet retailer Jollyes opened its 103rd store and its first in Nuneaton, Warwickshire on Friday.

The store was officially opened by NFRSA’s founder and chairman The Countess Bathurst alongside NFRSA ambassador and England rugby union player Lewis Ludlow and Warwickshire police dogs. Also joining them was Jollyes CEO Joe Wykes, store manager Andy Kineton, his store team and mascots Molly and Jolly.

Jollyes chosen Ambassadogs also attended the opening biting through a string of sausages. They were Hugo who also celebrated his fourth birthday on Friday alongside owner Ruta Pranckunaite and Diesel with owner Rebecca Alexander.

Mascots Jolly and Molly took to the streets of Nuneaton to launch their ‘Pet Manifesto’. Jollyes’ pet manifesto attempts to answer the question ‘What would pets ask for from candidates if they could vote?’ and has been compiled from the top suggestions made by Jollyes colleagues and its customers.

Activity continued on Saturday 29 June with an entertainer and pet theme gameshows and every customer over the weekend had the chance to spin Jollyes’ iconic ‘Wheel of Fur-tune’ to win prizes. Customers were also entertained by animal themed stilt walkers.

Jollyes new store provides pet owners in Nuneaton access to Jollyes’ raw food frozen ‘shop-in-shop’ and a community pet clinic.

Store manager Andy said: “It was a great day and I’d like to thank the whole team for getting the store ready to open as well as new charity partners NFRSA.  We’re really looking forward to working with them and also showing the pet parents of Warrington what we offer.”

It’s a summer of celebrations at Healthy Pet Store in Totton, Southampton, as it gets ready to toast 10 years of providing only good things to cats and dogs across the south this Autumn.

Deborah Burrows first opened the doors to the store in 2014, and has since grown into one of the country’s biggest retailers of raw pet food. 

Healthy Pet Store has since evolved and expanded into the successful high-street operation and online delivery service it is today. 

The store has also picked up many prestigious awards and accolades over the years, including the New Forest Brilliance Awards ‘Business Growth Award’, BizX’s ‘Best Retailer of the Year’ and Modern Retail’s ‘Bricks ‘N’ Clicks.’

Deborah said she is thrilled to be celebrating the milestone with her team this summer.

Deborah added: “I can clearly remember the first customer walking through the doors of our first location. Looking back, it is incredible just how much Healthy Pet Store has grown and flourished into what it is today.

“I’ve learnt so much as a business owner during the last 10 years. There have been challenges and pressures along the way, but thanks to the support of loyal customers, colleagues and local partners we have been able to overcome them.

The first smaller shop across the arcade started out with seven freezers and a feature of wooden crates in the middle. After its move during the COVID pandemic to the bigger Totton store, the store now holds 32 freezers packed with the store’s own-recipe raw meals and a select few other brands.

“We provide a unique supermarket-style shopping experience that makes feeding a raw diet a breeze - it’s why our customers have been visiting us since their pets were puppies or kittens.

“Continuous growth and expansion is now a priority for us. There are a number of exciting plans on the horizon over the next nine months - I can’t wait to see what lies ahead for Healthy Pet Store.”

Nova Dog Chews, a leading provider of natural high-quality dog chews and treats to the independent pet trade, has launched three new flavours in its Yak Snack Chews range – Apple, Blueberry, and Strawberry. 

The brand offers a wide range of nutritious products that dogs love. The dedication to excellence has led to remarkable growth and an ever-expanding product range.

These new Yak Snack Chews are 100% natural and healthy, containing 9.9% natural flavour and 90% cow’s milk. They are low in fat and perfect for promoting dental health and providing long-lasting enrichment and enjoyment for dogs. Available in two sizes, Medium and Large, they accommodate dogs of all breeds and sizes.

Lloyd Murdoch, Managing Director, said: “We are thrilled to expand our Yak Snack range with these innovative flavours. Our goal is to continually provide nutritious and enjoyable options for our customers’ dogs, and we believe these new flavours will be a big hit.”

To order or for more information, visit www.novadogchews.com or contact info@novadogchews.com.