A family-run pet shop in Harrogate, quoted as having ‘a consistent turnover in excess of £5,000 per week’, has been put up for sale.

HG Pets in Cold Bath Road has built up a loyal customer base since opening in 2022 when owner Jon decided to leave his corporate job of 30 years to run the shop with wife Sarah.

The pet shop informed customers of the imminent sale on its Facebook page:

“Such a sad and emotional moment as our very own ‘Pet Shop Jon’ has decided the time has come to sell the pet shop and pass it on for someone else to continue. 

“This shop has been Jon’s heart and soul for years, a true family business and such a huge part of the Cold Bath Road community. So many people and dogs have walked through those doors happier because of him.

“Jon always said he wanted to build a successful business, and he absolutely did. 

“Now the time has come for him to move on to new opportunities, spend more time with family and finally take a well-deserved break.

“Cold Bath Road won’t be the same without him. Thank you for everything you’ve given to the community you should be incredibly proud. 

“The business is now up for sale, so if anyone is interested in stepping into Jon’s boots and continuing something special, pop in to see him.”

The sale is being marketed by online agents Rightbiz. It states:

“An exceptional opportunity to acquire a beautifully presented and well-established pet supplies business, superbly positioned on one of Harrogate’s most sought-after and high-footfall trading locations. 

“The business has been successfully owned and operated by our client since its establishment in 2022 and is now being offered to the market solely due to ill health.

“The business trades during convenient and manageable hours across seven days, generating a strong and consistent turnover in excess of £5,000 per week. This is further enhanced by excellent profit margins, making it an attractive and sustainable venture for a new owner. 

“In addition, the business benefits from exclusive local supply arrangements with a number of highly regarded and popular brands, including Dry Robe, George Barclay and Muck Boots, providing a significant competitive advantage within the area.

“The premises comprise an eye-catching double-fronted unit, offering a bright and spacious retail environment with outstanding display potential. The ground floor provides a well-laid-out sales area with multiple retail zones, attractive merchandising opportunities, and a dedicated counter and point-of-sale facility. 

“Below, the lower ground floor offers valuable ancillary space including a staff room with kitchenette, WC facilities, and a separate room currently sublet to a dog grooming business. This arrangement provides a reliable rental income, along with additional ancillary trade generated by grooming customers visiting the shop on a daily basis.

“Externally, the property boasts a sizeable forecourt area, which is currently utilised to excellent effect as additional retail and display space, further enhancing the shop’s visibility and trading appeal. The premises are held on a secure lease with sensible and affordable rental terms, contributing to the overall attractiveness of this opportunity.”

For more information visit the Rightbiz website by clicking here.

Picture of ‘Pet Shop Jon’ outside HG Pets, taken from the store’s Facebook page.

Cultivated meat pioneer Meatly has raised £10.4 million in Series A funding that will enable the company to build Europe’s largest cultivated meat facility.

Three leading European VC funds have joined the company’s existing investors to support the next phase of Meatly’s growth. These include Oyster Bay Venture Capital, a food and agtech venture capital firm backed by institutional investors; Clean Growth Fund, a specialist climate tech venture capital platform; and JamJar Investments, a consumer fund that invests in early-stage consumer companies.

In a vote of confidence for the sector, all three investors are bringing significant external capital to the cultivated meat industry. This latest raise builds on the £7 million in seed funding provided by founding investor, Agronomics, and Pets at Home, bringing total funding raised to date to £17.4 million.

Owen Ensor, CEO of Meatly, said: "This investment marks a powerful endorsement – not just of Meatly, but of Britain's foodtech and biotech sectors. Meatly has one focus – to make commercially viable cultivated meat a reality. Over the last four years, Meatly’s pioneering team has systematically focused on reducing key costs and building the strongest possible technical foundation for growth. Now we have our own industry-leading technology, and we are ready to scale.”

Ensor continued: “This step will allow us to prove commercial viability at scale and start to continually produce Meatly Chicken for the UK pet food market.”

Since launching in 2022, Meatly has solved the key technical cost challenges facing the cultivated meat industry, accelerating the path to scalable, affordable production. In 2024, Meatly announced it had reduced the cost of its chemically defined protein-free medium to an industry-leading £0.22/l, and in 2025, announced it had reduced the cost of bioreactors by ~10x. Following its regulatory authorisation in 2024, Meatly sold the world’s first cultivated pet food in 2025.

This new funding will enable Meatly to build a 20,000-litre bioreactor facility in London, which is the largest of its kind in Europe. Fit-out of the facility will begin immediately, with product releases expected to follow in 2027.

Connor Duffy, Investment Manager at Clean Growth Fund, said: “Rethinking how we produce protein is an essential part of tackling the climate crisis. We’ve invested in Meatly because they are showing it’s possible to produce real meat cost-competitively and with a fraction of the environmental impact. The team is focused on building a commercially viable path to scale, which will ultimately determine whether solutions like this can deliver meaningful change. We’re delighted to be backing Meatly as they set out to build Europe’s largest cultivated meat production facility.”

Elise Schumacher, Investor at Oyster Bay Venture Capital, said: “Meatly is not just building a new product - it’s laying the foundations for an entirely new protein category.

“Cultivated meat is emerging as one of the most sustainable and ethical ways to produce meat today. From advancing the science to early retail sales for pets, Meatly has shown a clear ability to move from concept to real-world application, with the foundations to scale across Europe and globally. Having built and grown some of the most successful food businesses ourselves, we know what it takes - and this is exactly the kind of company we like to back. Owen, Helder, and the Meatly team are doing the right things early and are primed to make a meaningful difference to both the planet and in transforming the food ecosystem for the better.”

Jim Mellon, Executive Chairman at Agronomics and Chairman and Founding Investor at Meatly, said: "The market opportunity for sustainable and high-quality protein is enormous, but success in this category ultimately comes down to one thing: bringing down the cost of production. The team at Meatly has consistently cracked this challenge, reducing costs by building their own bioreactors, developing their own culture medium, and staying focused on what it takes to scale.

“That combination of technical rigour and financial discipline is exactly what wins in this market, and that's why we founded the company and continue to support them. This approach has earned Meatly fresh capital from new investors as the company scales production, aiming to build a more resilient, secure and sustainable protein supply chain across the UK and Europe.”

EzyDog UK has confirmed it will exhibit at Goodwoof 2026, where the brand will officially showcase its new Essentials Line to consumers, retailers, and industry professionals.

The launch marks a significant addition to the EzyDog portfolio, expanding the brand’s offering with a collection focused on high-quality, everyday dog accessories that combine durability, functionality, and accessible price points.

Designed to reflect growing consumer demand for coordinated pet accessories, the new Essentials Line features matching harness, collar, lead and poop bag holder sets, a trend that continues to perform strongly across the pet retail sector, particularly with new dog owners looking for practical, style-led solutions.

In addition to the coordinated sets, EzyDog UK will also showcase a bundle offering, allowing customers to purchase the full Essentials setup together at a 15% discounted price. 

Goodwoof 2026 will provide retailers and trade visitors with the opportunity to view the collection firsthand and explore the latest additions to the EzyDog range alongside the brand’s established bestsellers.

“We’re excited to showcase the Essentials Line at Goodwoof 2026,” said EzyDog UK. “The collection has been designed to meet growing demand for dependable everyday dog accessories & matching sets, at a more accessible price-point, while maintaining the performance and durability EzyDog is known for worldwide.”

EzyDog UK will be exhibiting throughout the event, with the new Essentials Line available to view on stand alongside the company’s wider range of premium canine accessories.

For more information, visit EzyDog UK

Jollyes Pets has announced that Adam Dury has been formally appointed as chief executive officer after becoming CEO-designate in October 2025.

Adam initially joined Jollyes as chief operating officer in January 2025 after five years as chief commercial officer at Card Factory plc and a member of its group operating board.  Prior to Card Factory, Adam worked in commercial roles at Tesco and Marks and Spencer.

Jollyes also today confirmed the permanent appointment of Gary Temple as chief financial officer, following his 12-month interim assignment as CFO.

Adam’s new leadership team now comprises Gary Temple (chief financial officer), Sean McGinty(chief marketing officer), Claire Goldenberg (chief people officer), Anne Galloway (commercial director), and David Stokes who has recently joined as retail and supply chain director.

Adam’s formal appointment comes as Jollyes launches a five-year growth strategy that sets a clear direction for sustainable growth, including an ambition to bring Jollyes to significantly more customers as it strengthens its position in the UK pet market.

Now trading from 120 stores, last month Jollyes released the locations of over 160 towns and cities across Great Britain where it would like to open new stores over the next five years, should the right sites become available.

So far in 2026 it has brought its special combination of low prices and pet expertise to four new communities, opening stores in Blackpool, Ponders End, Hartlepool and Whitehaven.

This week Jollyes will begin its latest series of store launches, opening in Lincoln on 15 May, followed by Kidderminster on 29 May, Yeovil on 19 June and Derby on 10 July.

On Adam’s appointment, Jollyes’ chairman Andy Bond said: “Adam has run the business with clarity and purpose over the past six months, and I’d like to thank him for his commitment, energy and leadership.

“The board has been impressed with the progress made under his guidance, and we’re delighted that he’ll continue to lead the business into its next phase.”

Adam Dury said: “It’s a real privilege to be appointed to lead this amazing business as we embark on our next chapter of growth.

“We have a unique and exciting opportunity to bring Jollyes to more pet parents over the next five years, bringing our special combination of value, expertise and exciting pet ranges to more customers than ever.

“With customer expectations of pet care rising, Jollyes will introduce fresh pet food ranges, making nutrition more accessible through outstanding value.”

Earlier this year Jollyes began rolling out Simply Jollyes, the lowest-priced own-label pet range in the UK, covering essential pet food and accessories designed to help households manage the cost of pet ownership without any quality compromise.

Over the past three years Jollyes has almost doubled the number of stores it operates across the UK, becoming a clear challenger brand for the 62% of UK households that own one of the UK’s 36.5m pets.

It was named as one of The Sunday Times’ best big companies to work for in 2024, and in 2025 won the Retail Week Award for Head Office Heroes following its highly successful raw frozen food roll out.

Up-and-coming pet hygiene and wellbeing product specialist The Paws Lab recently linked up with top professional grooming salon, Bow Wow in Covent Garden, London to host an event for dog owners, which focussed on how to care for pets in between visits to the groomers.

Entitled 'From Groomer to You: Healthy Dogs Start at Home', which is the first in a series of events being held with Bow Wow, leading groomer Fumika who trained in Tokyo and has over 10 years professional experience, talked to pet parents about the importance of maintaining a regular dog hygiene routine at home. 

The session included practical advice and best practices on everyday pet hygiene and care and Fumika used The Paws Lab’s products to demonstrate her points.

The topics covered included:

• How to properly brush a dog and maintain a healthy coat with The Paws Lab Dry Shampoo
• The importance of dental hygiene and using the right products, including The Paws Lab Dental Finger Cots
• The importance of face and eye-area hygiene, including the use of The Paws Lab Tear Stain Wipes
• Ear cleaning and the importance of regular maintenance to help prevent odours, buildup, mites, and infections using the Paws Lab Ear Cleaner.

The event was an intimate and interactive workshop for a small group of guests allowing for a more personal and educational experience.

Home grooming products is one of the fasted growing sectors of the pet industry worth £420 million approximately to the UK economy a year. Consumers are looking for premium products that give them the convenience to care for their pets at home, and The Paws Lab is at the forefront of this trend offering pet parents simple, effective everyday hygiene solutions made with gentle, effective ingredients.

At the heart of The Paws Lab’s products is a patented technology called SilverTi+, an advanced formulation combining nano silver and titanium dioxide. Unique to The Paws Lab, it offers advanced antimicrobial protection for pet grooming and hygiene, making it more effective, efficient, and superior compared to traditional colloidal silver. 

All formulas are fragrance-free, alcohol-free and free from harsh chemicals, making them suitable even for pets with sensitive skin. They are also designed to be simple and practical, turning daily care into an easy routine rather than something overly complicated and time consuming. The Paws Lab’s products focus on daily rituals for pets from ear care and skin cleansing to dental care, tear stain wipes, dry shampoo and daily protection for coat and skin.

The formulations are tested and validated by leading global laboratories including FDA, Microbac Laboratories and SGS, ensuring they meet strict standards for quality, safety and product performance.

For further information visit:  www.thepawslab.co

Jollyes has successfully completed a nationwide fundraising campaign in support of the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) as part of National Service Animal Week 2026.

The initiative marked the second consecutive year Jollyes has supported National Service Animal Week, with stores across the UK raising both funds and awareness for retired service animals who have served within the emergency services.

Throughout the week, selected Jollyes stores including Edinburgh, Cannock, Blyth, Plymouth, Cardiff, Lisburn and Gloucester welcomed retired service animals and their handlers for special customer appearances and meet-and-greet events.

Stores received visits from retired police service dogs including Naso, Oz, Marley, Nash, Sally and Ella, plus retired fire investigations dog Reggie.

On Sunday (10 May), the visits were rounded off with a visit from the NFRSA’s founder The Countess Bathurst (known to all as Lady B), her husband The Earl Bathurst, Mrs Marguerite Chapman (Lady B’s mother), members of the NFRSA team and Marley a retired Heathrow detection dog and his handler Sam Moss from Border Force.

Thanks to the hard work of colleagues and the generous support of customers, £15,000 has been raised for the charity, helping the NFRSA continue its vital work.

On top of the £15,000, Jollyes is making an additional £5,000 donation from the NFRSA partnership fund it established, enabling Jollyes to make a charitable donation of £20,000.

The NFRSA provides vital support for retired service animals from across the emergency services family, including the Police, Fire and Rescue, Prison, Border Force, National Crime Agency, NHS, and MoD Police services. They are also proud to support Military Working Dogs from the RAF Police. Once retired, many service animals receive no ongoing financial support for their care and often cannot access affordable pet insurance because of their age and specialist training.

Jollyes first partnered with the NFRSA in 2024 and has continued to expand its support through in-store fundraising, awareness campaigns and community activity linked to new store openings involving retired service animals.

Sean McGinty, chief marketing officer said: “National Service Animal Week has once again been an amazing moment for us all here at Jollyes, as our colleagues and customers support the remarkable animals who have dedicated their lives to protecting our communities.

“We’re extremely proud of the partnership we’ve built with the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals over the past two years and the fundraising efforts that have taken place across our stores."

Countess Lady Bathurst said: “I’m incredibly proud of the partnership the NFRSA and Jollyes have built over the past two years. During this time, we’ve developed a wonderful relationship, founded on shared values and a genuine commitment to supporting animals and the people who love them.

"The amount raised during National Service Animal Week is truly incredible, and I’m extremely grateful to Jollyes for their continued support, as well as to their customers for their kindness and generosity.”

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Ceva Animal Health and investment company Mitsui & Co., Ltd have announced the creation of Ceva Bussan Animal Health, a new joint venture that brings together Bussan Animal Health (BAH) and Ceva Japan. 

As part of the transaction, Mitsui has transferred 60% of its shareholding in BAH to Ceva. Ceva Bussan Animal Health will be operated by Ceva as a controlling shareholder and benefit from Mitsui’s ongoing support as a leading global trading and investment company headquartered in Japan.

In parallel, Mitsui has made an additional strategic equity investment in Ceva, further reinforcing the long-standing partnership between Ceva and Mitsui.

Ceva and Mitsui have built a long-standing strategic partnership in the animal health sector, combining Ceva’s global expertise as a leading animal health company with Mitsui’s extensive global reach and diverse business portfolio.

This enhanced partnership is intended to accelerate collaboration across broader initiatives, including innovation, market expansion and the creation of long-term sustainable value in the animal health industry.

Ceva Bussan Animal Health represents a cornerstone of this reinforced collaboration, providing a concrete operational platform in Japan.

Ceva Bussan Animal Health combines BAH’s 75-year heritage in the Japanese animal health market with Ceva’s position as a global top five animal health company. BAH brings a strong and longstanding presence in the veterinary channel, while Ceva provides access to leading livestock and pet products, and to future innovation. Ceva also adds recognized multichannel expertise, particularly in OTC pet products. 

Together, these complementary capabilities create a company with a broader and more complete product range for the Japanese market.

BAH generated approximately €40 million in revenue in 2025 with deep experience serving veterinarians and pet owners.

Ceva Japan contributes a lean team with robust commercial, marketing and regulatory capabilities and a solid portfolio with existing and future products covering swine, ruminant and pet health products.

Marc Prikazsky, Executive chairman of Ceva Animal Health, commented: “With Ceva Bussan Animal Health, we are opening a new chapter for animal health in Japan. By combining the deep roots and expertise of BAH with Ceva’s global innovation capabilities, we are creating a company uniquely positioned to better serve veterinarians, farmers, and pet owners. This joint venture reflects our long-standing commitment to the Japanese market and our ambition to accelerate growth by building strong, local partnerships. Together with Mitsui, we are laying the foundations for a stronger, more dynamic future for animal health in Japan.”

Bioiberica, a global life science company, has received NutraStrong Collagen Verification for Collavant n2, its native (undenatured) type II collagen which provides joint support for dogs and cats at a low dose of just 0.4 mg/kg body weight or 25ppm in feed.

The company is spotlighting this achievement at Interzoo (Hall 7 Booth 7-243), signalling that Collavant n2 meets the highest standards of purity, source integrity, manufacturing excellence and claim substantiation, while also helping pet supplement brands to elevate their product positioning with tangible, independently-verified claims.

Raising the bar in pet collagen innovation  

The NutraStrong Collagen Verified program, developed by SGS Nutrasource, is the first independent certification system dedicated to evaluating and verifying the identity, source, safety and quality of collagen ingredients and products – ensuring that consumers receive what is claimed on the label. By securing this recognition, Collavant n2 offers pet supplement brands a clear point of differentiation in a crowded market and also reinforces Bioiberica’s commitment to transparency and scientific integrity.

“Certifications like this are already well-established in human nutrition categories such as omega-3s and probiotics, but are much rarer for collagen, and especially for ingredients intended for the pet health market,” comments Xavier Garcia, Business Unit Director Animal Health & Plant Health at Bioiberica. “Securing this prestigious accreditation for our Collavant n2 ingredient for pet joint support marks a major milestone for us, and represents a significant advancement in ingredient quality standards for pet health. We are excited to share more details with our partners and colleagues at Interzoo 2026.”

The NutraStrong Collagen Verified program is further endorsed by the Collagen Stewardship Alliance (CSA), reflecting growing industry alignment around the need for trusted and effective collagen solutions. Commenting on Bioiberica’s accomplishment, Len Monheit, Executive Director at the CSA, says: "The CSA’s mission is to foster responsible growth of the global collagen category, including the pet nutrition sector, and the Collagen Verified program plays a vital role in this effort by recognising suppliers and brands that prioritise quality, efficacy and transparency. Congratulations to Bioiberica for being the first to meet this rigorous standard in the pet health space and helping set a new benchmark for the industry."

About Collavant n2

Collavant n2 harnesses the power of naturally-derived native (undenatured) type II collagen to keep pets moving freer, for longer. Through its targeted mechanism of action, it provides direct support for joint integrity in dogs and cats at a low dose of just 0.4 mg/kg body weight or 25ppm in feed. Collavant n2 delivers science-backed benefits and formulation flexibility in a safe, stable and preservative-free package. It’s a new breed of pet mobility solution.

Attendees at Interzoo 2026 can learn more about Collavant n2 and Bioiberica’s wider portfolio of science-backed solutions for pet health by visiting booth 7-243, Hall 7, 12-15 May 2026.  

To discover more about Bioiberica and its dedication to supporting the health and well-being of people, animals and plants, visit: www.bioiberica.com 

Agria Pet Insurance has been selected as the first-ever recipient of International Partnership for Dogs’ (IPFDogs) new Dog Wellness Award. The award acknowledges and celebrates organisations demonstrating an exceptional commitment to the health and wellbeing of all dogs.

Agria is awarded for its consistency, generosity, and shared commitment to improving the lives of dogs.

Marc Ralsky, CEO International Partnership for Dogs, says: “Agria’s support has helped strengthen important conversations, collaborations, and progress across the global dog health community, and we are deeply grateful for all you have done.”

David Haak, CEO of Agria says: “I am both proud and grateful for this fine award. We are driven by a strong commitment to the health and well-being of animals. Thanks to the fact that we have one of the world’s largest claims databases, we can share data and knowledge to contribute to more sustainable breeding and healthier dogs.”

The Dog Wellness Award was established in 2026 to recognise organisations in the canine world that exemplify the core values of IPFDogs. Agria was chosen to receive this award from of a group of 12 nominated organisations.

Agria works closely with the kennel clubs in all the countries where IPFD operates, including Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France and Germany.

From the outset support has always been at the heart of CSJ’s ethos – for dogs and their owners, stockists, events, competitive handlers – and its value is borne out by its recognition.

This message from stockist Dave Neale tells its own story about Area Manager Yvette Moore: “Just a quick email to say how lucky I feel to have Yvette as CSJ customer support in my area, she seems to have boundless energy! I’m sure I’m not the only one who has made you aware of what a great ambassador for CSJ Yvette is, but in this world of people who like to moan I think it’s only right to give praise when it’s deserved.”

Founder Ceri Rundle replied: “Enthusiasm is quite contagious isn’t it, I’ll be sure to pass on your lovely words. Laura Pateman, a former colleague of Yvette’s with years of pet food experience, has also recently joined us. Heaven help the world when the two get together. I know there’ll be lots of laughs in between the hard work they put in to servicing their accounts.”

Ceri says: “We regularly get grateful messages too about our Nutritionist Nicki Crawley (Bsc Dip ACNS Cert AAH), who spends her days in contact with customers advising them on the best ways to feed their dogs.  Like most of our team Nicki is a highly experienced dog owner (and competitor in Agility in her and her daughter’s case) and she clearly gets enormous satisfaction from using her expertise and experience to help people improve their pets’ health.

“An interest and love of dogs runs throughout CSJ, and as we continually see and hear about the benefits our products and support brings about, our enthusiasm is not only  heart-felt, but (apparently) contagious.”

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

The Pet Industry Federation has announced the 14 finalists for its Innovation Award 2026, showcasing a diverse range of products, services and technologies shaping the future of the UK pet sector.

The finalists will present their innovations live at the Business of Pets Conference 2026, generously sponsored by WorldPay, which takes place on Wednesday 3 -Thursday 4 June at the Cranfield University Management Development Centre, near Milton Keynes. Selected finalists will pitch directly to delegates as part of the conference programme, offering a first-hand look at innovative ideas across pet care, retail and technology.

This year’s finalists are:

• Marine Kind- Kelpi Bone
• Pawdaw of London- Waterproof Rainbow Reflective Raincoat
• UK LitPet Biotech Co Ltd - LitPet Skin & Coat M&M (Meaty & Mix)
• Scamp & Paw Ltd – Everyday Lobster
• Pet Attix - UK Marketplace for Pre-Owned Pet Supplies
• A Dog Person Ltd – The All Rounder
• HayPigs!® - Build Your Own Guinea Pig Village – Mini Houses
• Astbry Ltd – TugRun
• WildWash (Pet Revolution Ltd) – WildWash Magic Mud
• Only Rescues - Pet Adoption App
• Dignipets Limited - Pet QOL Tracker
• My Licensed Breeder Ltd - The Digital PawPrint
• Petosu Ltd – DigDrum
• The Dog Trainer School – ‘Recommended’ Scheme

The Innovation Award forms a central part of PIF’s Business of Pets Conference, giving delegates the opportunity to discover new concepts, engage directly with founders and vote for the ideas they believe will have the greatest impact on the industry.

Alongside the Innovation pitches, the conference features a packed speaker programme focused around the theme of ‘Building Resilience’, with expert speakers covering cost pressures, consumer trends, digital strategy and business growth, as well as extensive networking opportunities across the two days.

The overall winner of the Innovation Award will be announced at the close of the conference.

With limited spaces available at the conference, pet businesses are encouraged to secure their place to experience the full programme and meet the innovators driving the sector forward. PIF members receive a discount to the attend the event. 

For more information, view the programme and book tickets, visit:
https://petfederation.co.uk/the-business-of-pets-conference/programme-2026/

The Specialist Pet Group has announced that Pedigree Wholesale managing director Julian Grindey is leaving the business. Meanwhile, Paul Lewis has been appointed as group managing director, with responsibility across both Pedigree Wholesale and PSR Trading.

Steve Brown, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Specialist Pet Group, revealed the change to the group’s leadership on the company’s Linkedin page,  

The company said the change represented a considered step in the continued evolution of the group, strengthening alignment across the businesses. The focus remains on delivering consistent commercial performance, strong availability and high levels of service across all areas.

Paul brings significant experience within the group, having successfully led PSR Trading and driven performance through a clear commercial focus and disciplined operating approach. Paul will continue to drive commercial performance across all channels, working closely with both our independent pet partners and retail customers.

Paul has a strong understanding of the pet trade and a proven track record in delivering results, positioning him well to take on this broader group role.

Commenting on the appointment, Steve Brown said: “Paul has a deep understanding of our business and the wider pet trade, and has consistently demonstrated strong commercial leadership. This appointment reflects our focus on building a more aligned Group, with clear accountability and a continued emphasis on delivering for our customers and suppliers. He has my full support as he takes on this role, and I am confident he is well placed to lead the business through its next phase.”

All Pets (Pet Emporium) in Lowestoft, which was established more than 60 years ago, is now under new family ownership.

Nina Spencer, partner Geoff and son Marcus have taken over the All Pets store and have already completed numerous improvements.

“We have inherited from the previous owners some very good advice, top branded feeds for dogs, cats, chicken, ewe and lamb, parrot feeds, budgie, rabbit and guinea pigs,” Nina told the East Anglian Daily Times. 

The full report can be viewed by clicking here.

New research from Johnson's Veterinary Products has revealed that 67% of pet owners think independent shops are important to their community, and 57% would be upset if theirs were to close. Yet only 12% name an independent as their main source of pet products, and 19% say they never visit their local pet shop in a typical month.

It is that worrying gap between sentiment and shopping behaviour that this year's National Pet Shop Day is setting out to challenge.

Returning for its third year on Saturday 11th July, National Pet Shop Day calls on pet owners to turn appreciation into action, and gives independent retailers the national platform, practical support and community focus to make that happen.

The campaign has grown significantly since its launch. In its second year, the number of participating retailers doubled, with more than 500 independent shops across the UK taking part. Retailer registration for 2026 is now open.

Paul Gwynn, Chairman of Johnson's Veterinary Products, said: "The research tells us what independent retailers have always known. Pet owners trust their local shop, value its advice, and would genuinely miss it if it disappeared. National Pet Shop Day is a reminder that trust alone won't keep these businesses open. We need people to act on it."

Independent pet shops are the local health and wellbeing hubs of the pet world, providing face-to-face support and reassurance to animal lovers and ensuring that minor conditions are treated effectively, efficiently and affordably. 

With National Pet Shop Day, Johnson's, a proudly independent British family business with over a hundred years of experience supporting the pet care trade, celebrates the ongoing contribution that independent retailers make to their communities, and the services, knowledge and advice they offer to the nation's pet owners every day.

Retailers who register will receive a free promo pack, access to a dedicated PR and Social Media Toolkit, and a listing on the National Pet Shop Day interactive map to help local pet owners find their nearest participating store. They will each benefit from an extra 10% off an order with Johnson’s Veterinary Products too.

An in-store promotion running on the day itself will give pet owners who visit their local participating shop the chance to win a £500 voucher for a pet-friendly holiday with Pets in Pyjamas, helping retailers drive footfall and boost engagement.

A separate competition will reward the best celebratory activities on the day, with a £500 voucher up for grabs for the three winning retailers.

Retailers can register at nationalpetshopday.co.uk or by speaking to their local Johnson's Area Sales Representative.

A Devon pet wellbeing company has achieved what few businesses in the animal sector ever do, winning a prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation.

Pet Remedy, based in Torquay, has been honoured for its pioneering calming products, a natural range designed to help animals cope with stress and anxiety without sedation. The award places the company among a select group of British businesses recognised at the highest level for groundbreaking work, and marks a particularly significant moment for the pet sector, where such accolades remain exceptionally rare.

The King’s Awards for Enterprise are among the most respected business honours in the UK, celebrating outstanding achievement in areas including innovation, international trade and sustainable development. For a pet brand to secure recognition in the innovation category is highly unusual, underlining the impact Pet Remedy has made with its science-led approach to animal wellbeing.

Pet Remedy’s products are designed for use across a wide range of animals, including mammals, birds and reptiles, and the company says its patented formula helps calm the nervous system naturally while allowing animals to stay alert and responsive. The business developed the innovation in the UK and has continued refining the range since its original launch, most recently with a reformulated blend introduced in 2025 following further research and consumer testing.

Martyn Bartlett-Judge, Managing Director of Pet Remedy, said the award was a landmark moment for the business and a proud one for the wider pet industry.

“This is an extraordinary honour for Pet Remedy and a hugely proud moment for everyone connected with the business,” he said. “The King’s Award for Innovation is one of the most respected accolades in British business, and for a pet company to receive that recognition is incredibly special.

“We have always believed animal emotional wellbeing deserves to be taken seriously, and this award is powerful recognition of that. It reflects years of research, determination and a commitment to creating a product that genuinely helps animals, while giving owners and professionals a trusted, natural option.”

Pet Remedy said its innovation was born out of a clear gap in the market for a calming solution that was fast-acting, natural and suitable across multiple species. The company went on to build a range that includes diffusers, sprays, wipes and atomisers, used by pet owners as well as veterinary professionals, behaviourists and rescue organisations.

Rob Tyler of Pet Remedy said the award was especially meaningful because it showed animal welfare innovation was finally getting the recognition it deserved.
“It is still very rare for a pet business to receive this kind of national recognition, which makes this achievement all the more significant,” he said. “For too long, innovation in the animal wellbeing space has been overlooked, despite the enormous difference it can make to animals, owners and the professionals caring for them.

“This award sends a strong message that improving the emotional health of animals matters. We hope it shines a light not only on what Pet Remedy has achieved, but on the wider importance of investing in welfare-led innovation across the pet sector.”

 Pet Remedy says the recognition reflects a long-term commitment to research, product development and continuous improvement, backed by patented technology and years of work to develop a calming product that is both effective and easy to use.

Several leading companies have announced a joint initiative to adopt a European Raw Feeding Manufacturing Standard, building on best practices established by UK Pet Food.

This initiative is a defining moment for the category, representing a collective step forward in setting clear quality, safety and transparency benchmarks, and actively shaping the future of raw and fresh pet nutrition in Europe.

The companies involved include Freshfrozen for Pets (brands: Jolipet, Wolf's Menu, and BARF Buffet), Snellman Petfood (brands: Benyfit Natural, Mush and Fodax Foder), and The Nutriment Company (brands: Nutriment, DIBO, Barfgold, Natural Instinct, and Purrform).

Raw and fresh feeding continues to grow across European markets, reflecting increasing consumer interest in minimally processed pet nutrition and greater transparency around ingredients and manufacturing practices. The initiative reflects growing scientific and industry interest in raw and fresh feeding approaches. 

As the category develops, participating companies believe there is a growing need for clear, credible and consistent manufacturing standards that support product safety, responsible production and consumer confidence across Europe. 

Raw pet food now accounts for up to 10% of the pet food market in some European countries – and as the category grows, so does the responsibility to ensure that growth is supported by robust, harmonised standards.

With this initiative, the industry is not waiting for change – it is joining forces to define sound regulation in collaboration with industry associations and create a shared framework that reflects the category's maturity with a clear commitment to do what is right for pets, pet owners, and the wider ecosystem.

From best practice to industry benchmark

The initiative is designed to go beyond minimum compliance. Building on proven best practices already successfully defined and implemented in the UK by UK Pet Food, it translates them into a consistent, scalable framework across European markets. The standard is intentionally open – any manufacturer committed to meeting its criteria is welcome to join. Participating manufacturers commit to:

• Adhering fully to EU and local regulatory frameworks, while proactively exceeding requirements where this enhances product safety and quality; 
• Implementing robust manufacturing controls and quality assurance systems, aligned with leading industry practices;
• Generating awareness among consumers on how to safely engage in raw feeding that supports responsible growth of the category

A core element of the standard will be regular audits conducted by independent third-party organisations to ensure that participating manufacturers consistently meet the defined entry and ongoing participation criteria.

The European Raw Feeding Manufacturing Standard is intentionally designed as a collaborative, open initiative, with the ambition to create alignment across EU markets, support regulatory dialogue and clarity, encourage continuous improvement across the industry, and provide clear guidance for retailers and consumers.

By working together, participating companies aim to contribute to a more transparent, well-regulated, and future-ready raw and fresh pet food sector.

The initiative takers share a science-led commitment to natural pet nutrition – grounded in high-quality raw materials, rigorous testing, and collaboration with veterinarians and nutritionists. As long-term, responsible operators, they are united in their dedication to raising standards, ensuring full transparency, and providing clear guidance on safe handling – for the benefit of pets, pet owners, and the industry as a whole.

Pierre Kemseke, Founder and CEO of Freshfrozen for Pets: "Companies are a way to do good to society. When I started this company in 2013 from scratch, I wanted to create a place where we make healthy products in a healthy working environment for a better society. It goes without saying that this only works in a production environment exceeding the highest standards at all levels. This has been at the forefront of everything we do, from the first kg we produced back then till the tons we daily make. I'm delighted to have found likeminded partners in Snellman and TNC, with whom I can inspire more producers to follow our lead."

"Raw feeding is one of the most natural and beneficial ways to nourish companion animals," says Anders Kristiansen, CEO of The Nutriment Company. "And with that comes responsibility. As an industry, we have the opportunity to define what excellence looks like and to make it the standard across Europe. At The Nutriment Company, we have always placed safety, quality, and transparency at the centre of everything we do. By launching this initiative today, we are proud to contribute our expertise to a collaborative effort that will strengthen trust and raise standards across the entire category."

Greg van Praagh, Managing Director at Benyfit Natural (part of Snellman Petfood) adds: “Safety, standards, best practice and transparency underpin the future of raw feeding. Having worked closely with UK regulators to develop and accredit the standard for our brand Benyfit Natural, extending it across Europe is a natural and exciting next step. This ground‑breaking initiative is built on collaboration, and we are delighted to work with national associations and manufacturers across Europe. We strongly encourage other raw manufacturers to engage with their local national associations and join the scheme so that, together, we can raise standards and lead the future of manufacturing excellence.”

Further details on the framework, governance model, and certification process will be shared in the coming months.

The initiative marks an important step towards establishing Europe-wide benchmarks for quality, safety, and responsibility, ensuring that the growth of raw and fresh feeding is supported by strong, credible standards.

Assisi Pet Care has announced the acquisition of Sniffers Pet Care and its lead brand NAW, a fast-growing natural dog treat brand.

NAW has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting emerging brands in the natural treats category.

Built around a clear proposition of single-ingredient, meat-based products, NAW combines a strong ‘nose-to-tail’ ethos with a modern, engaging brand that resonates with today’s pet owners. Its commitment to using every part of the animal; reducing waste while delivering simple high-quality nutrition, has helped it stand out in a rapidly growing segment of the market.

Since launching in 2023, NAW has achieved strong momentum across Specialty Pet Trade, retail and e-commerce channels, building a loyal customer base and establishing itself as a compelling new choice for pet parents seeking natural, minimally processed treats.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome NAW into the Assisi portfolio,” said Chris Melander, CEO of Assisi Pet Care.

“It’s a brand with a clear point of view, strong consumer appeal and real momentum. NAW strengthens our position in natural treats; one of the fastest-growing parts of the category, and brings us closer to a new generation of pet owners.

“We’re looking forward to working with Simon and his team to build on the great foundations they’ve created and unlock the brand’s full potential as part of Assisi.”

Simon Brown, CEO of Sniffers Pet Care, added: “We’re proud of what we’ve built with NAW and excited to join forces with Assisi. Their scale, expertise and shared commitment to natural, high-quality products make them the ideal partner for the next phase of growth. We believe this combination will allow NAW to go further and faster, while staying true to what makes the brand special.”

This acquisition reflects Assisi’s continued focus on building a leading platform in natural, purposeful pet care — bringing together distinctive brands with strong consumer relevance, high-quality products and exciting growth potential.

LitPet arrived at Interzoo with a philosophy that has elevated pet care into an art form, with the UK’s first Traditional Chinese Medicine-inspired pet supplement brand already attracting a lot of interest from pet buyers.

At the show in Germany, LitPet presented its most ambitious theme yet: The Hall of Hundred Herbs. In ancient Eastern texts, the ‘Hundred Herbs’ symbolises nature’s healing wisdom and the delicate balance of life. In the European humanistic tradition, a ‘Hall’ represents a sanctuary of scholarship, art, and thought.

Together, they create an imagined space where the fragrance of nature meets the precision of the laboratory. This is a living dialogue between the Eastern art of herbal healing and Western academic precision – an academic sanctuary where every light, stone, and leaf embodies 'rational beauty'. It is the order of nature, refined by the restraint of art and the rigor of science.

While many in the industry are only now beginning to explore 'natural' alternatives, LitPet has spent years perfecting a synthesis of ancient wisdom and modern biomedical research. The 'Two Labs' model, operating between London and Hong Kong, utilises the expertise of researchers from leading institutions like Oxford and Cambridge.

This fusion has already captured the attention of both the industry and the cultural zeitgeist. Last year, LitPet was honoured at the PetQuip Awards, taking home the Gold Award for New Promising Business Starter, while their flagship Pawsitive Powder secured the Silver Award for Product of the Year. Beyond the pet sector, their aesthetic and efficacy have resonated with the fashion and lifestyle world, featuring in British Vogue for three consecutive issues (January to March) this year.

 LitPet believes that a healthy pet cannot exist on a sick planet. The brand's 100% recyclable, FSC-certified packaging and their 'serve pets first' ethos reflects a commitment to the "Common Well-being" of pets, people, and the environment.

LitPet invites the professionals of the UK pet industry to step into The Hall of Hundred Herbs at Interzoo 2026. Explore how the wisdom of the past and the technology of the future are composing a new art of wellness.

“Let us move the industry from the 'surface-level trap' of symptom management toward a future of proactive, holistic health,” says LitPet founder Stephen Hu.

Visit LitPet at Interzoo 2026 Experience the intersection of Science, Art, and Nature.Location: Hall 3A-514 

 www.litpet.co

sales@litpet.org

Four colleagues at Burgess Pet Care are preparing to take on a challenging 100km relay run across North and East Yorkshire to raise money for mental health charity Andy’s Man Club.  

On Friday the 22nd of May, engineers Luke Newbigging, Josh Hammond and Hayden Campbell, alongside shift manager Alex Malukovs, will each complete 25km of the route.  

Starting at Burgess’ original mill in Thornton-le-Dale on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors national park, the route will then follow through the back roads and rural terrain of the countryside, finishing at Burgess HQ, Cherry Tree Mill in Goole. 

The first runner will set off at 5am and the team will split the route into four demanding relays, covering the equivalent of just over half a marathon each. The group have an ambition aim to complete the relay within 10 hours.   

The relay will be supported by two follow cars, with colleagues documenting the challenge throughout the day via photos and video, as well as a wider fundraising push across LinkedIn. Donations raised from the run will go directly towards supporting the charities network of mental health support groups nationwide.  

Dr Suzanne Moyes, Deputy Managing Director at Burgess Pet Care, said: “This is an incredible challenge and one the team are seeing through with huge determination. Andy’s Man Club does vital work supporting men’s mental health, and we’re incredibly proud to support them through such an ambitious fundraising effort.

“We’re hugely proud of Luke, Josh, Hayden and Alex for taking this on – it’s no small feat, especially given the distance and terrain. The whole business will be right behind them on the day, cheering them on every step of the way and looking forward to welcoming them across the finish line.” 

Andy’s Man Club runs free mental health support groups for men across the UK, creating safe, non‑judgemental spaces where men can talk openly. Focused on breaking stigma and encouraging early support, the charity struck a chord with colleagues when they recently delivered a talk at the business which is why it was selected as Burgess Pet Care’s chosen charity of the year.  

In addition to the run, the team will also be taking part in other fundraising initiatives throughout the year including bake offs, cycling challenges and a darts marathon. Through this activity, Burgess has committed to raising more than £6300, to beat the total raised for charity last year.   

To find out more and to donate visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/burgess-pet-care-4 

The Pet Industry Federation is supporting UK pet businesses at the world’s leading pet trade event – Interzoo 2026 – this week.

Throughout the show, PIF are hosting a programme of informal 'Meet the Expert' drop-in sessions, offering practical advice on key areas including legal and compliance, export and routes to market, marketing and growth and developments such as 2D barcodes.

PIF CEO Nigel Baker (pictured) delivered a talk on the Sourcing Stage yesterday (Wednesday), focusing on what businesses need to consider when importing into and exporting from the UK.

Visitors to the PIF stand were be able to access guidance, pick up resources and speak to the PIF team about opportunities in both the UK and international markets.

Carnilove has unveiled a refined product portfolio with new recipes, a vibrant new brand and packaging. UK pet retailers can now order from BSB Products Ltd.

All Carnilove recipes now feature fresh meat in two ranges, Carnilove Active and Carnilove True Fresh:

• Carnilove Active features 70-80% meat overall, now with 26% fresh meat for superior palatability and digestibility.
• Carnilove True Fresh delivers high performance nutrition featuring 60-70% fresh meat.

Every dry food is now 100% chicken-free, making the entire range ideal for pets with sensitivities.

The new brand identity is bold and dynamic and celebrates the natural strength, spirit and vitality of cats and dogs. It also highlights the partnership between pets and their humans. Wild and rustic is out and strength and vitality are in, with a colour palette changing of striking red, burgundy and sand. New fonts and on pack illustrations convey movement and purpose.

New recipes include:

Dog

• Active Salmon & Turkey with 70% quality animal ingredients including 26% fresh Salmon.
• Active Venison & Reindeer & Wild Boar with 70% quality animal ingredients including 26% fresh Venison.
• True Fresh Duck with 70% quality animal ingredients including 60% fresh duck.

Cat

• True Fresh Beef with 70% fresh beef.
• True Fresh Beef for Kittens with 70% fresh beef.
• Active Fillets in Jelly Multipacks with 90% meat and organs

The whole dry dog range is available in 12kg, 4kg and 1.5kg bags. The Active cat range is available in 6kg, 2kg and 400g bags. The True Fresh cat range is available in 2kg and 400g bags.

Colin Rodger, Director at BSB Products, exclusive UK distributor of Carnilove said: “Every cat and dog deserves the finest fresh ingredients and lots of meat protein. Carnilove has always been good but now our recipes are even better with more meat and fresh meat ingredients and options for every life stage. With recipes including novel meats such as Reindeer, Wild Boar and Quail we have a wide selection of irresistible options for our four-legged friends. The striking new packaging will create stand out impact on shelf for our retail partners. It’s an exciting new chapter for Carnilove and our retailers.”