Pedigree Wholesale has announced plans to streamline its distribution network as part of a wider programme of investment designed to strengthen the business and support long-term growth.

Following a detailed operational review, the company intends to transition activity into its wider national network. The move will enable Pedigree to make better use of existing capacity, improve efficiency, and continue delivering a reliable and consistent service to customers across the UK.

Managing Director Julian Grindey said the decision reflects a deliberate and considered approach to building a stronger, more resilient business.

“This is part of a broader programme of work focused on getting the fundamentals right and investing for the future,” he said. “We’ve been very clear internally on our ‘Back to Brilliant Basics’ approach - focusing on availability, competitive pricing, dependable delivery, and making it easier for customers to do business with us.”

Over the past 12–18 months, Pedigree has invested significantly in these core areas. This includes the implementation of enhanced demand planning capability (DPIM), the introduction of a new mobile app and improvements to its webstore, as well as the rollout of a new, leading-edge warehouse management system.

“These investments are already starting to make a difference,” Grindey added. “We’ve seen a positive movement in our Net Promoter Score, which is a good indicator that customers are recognising improvements in service, availability and overall experience.”

The decision to consolidate the distribution network is a natural extension of that strategy.

“Our network today has the capability to support our customers effectively,” said Grindey. “By simplifying how we operate, we can utilise that capability more efficiently and continue to build consistency into the service we provide.”

Grindey was also clear that the proposal is not a reflection of the performance of the North depot or its team.

“They have done a strong job over many years. This decision is about how the site fits within the wider network and how we best position the business for the future.”

For customers, continuity remains the priority. Deliveries will continue as normal, with no change to ordering processes, and the business expects the transition to be seamless with minimal disruption.

The move comes at a time when the UK pet care market is becoming increasingly competitive and complex, with flat volumes, ongoing cost pressure, and growth driven more by channel shift and product mix than underlying demand.

“In this environment, standing still isn’t an option,” Grindey said. “You have to be proactive - strengthening your operations, investing in the right areas, and making sure you are set up to support customers effectively.”

Pedigree continues to invest in the capabilities, systems and infrastructure that underpin its service, with a clear focus on long-term sustainability and customer support.

“These are not short-term decisions,” Grindey concluded. “They are about building a business that is fit for the future - one that is efficient, well invested, and focused on delivering for our customers over the long term.”