After over 40 years in the gardening and leisure industry (over 33 years of which have been as director general of Gardenex and PetQuip), Amanda Sizer Barrett will be retiring from the Federation on Monday (31 March). The new director general will be Joe Denham, managing director of DogDoov, who will take over on Tuesday (1 April).

Amanda, pictured above, handing over a Lifetime Achievement Award to John Burns at the PetQuip Awards in 2023.

Amanda’s career in the industry started as a business journalist at Link House Publications Ltd, covering the garden and DIY sectors. Following her promotion to editor, she was responsible for reporting on the industry and retail news within the gardening, DIY and housewares sectors and got to know the majority of businesses, trade exhibitions and retailers within this rapidly changing business environment.

She was then headhunted to head up Gardenex and to expand its services and was also heavily involved in the launch of the Garden Products Association which subsequently merged with GIMA. Over the years she has been working in the industry, she introduced the very popular ‘meet the buyer’ events, now adopted by many other associations; established an export technical helpline to support exporters during and following the navigation of BREXIT; created unique promotional and exhibition opportunities at venues in countries from Austria to Japan; organised international trade conferences and introduced a raft of specialised support services, with the help of her expert team. 

She was also instrumental in launching PetQuip, the trade association for the pet care product sector, which provides similar services to those of Gardenex to firms in this expanding industry.

During Amanda’s tenure, the Federation has also taken on the running of the secretariats for the Commercial Horticultural Association, and then GIMA. 

For her work in promoting and developing exports, Amanda was awarded an MBE. 

“I have loved working in the gardening and pet product sectors, which are full of innovation and feature some inspiring entrepreneurs and wonderful personalities. I would like to thank everyone I’ve worked with and alongside over the many years I have been privileged to be part of these exciting and dynamic industries.” 

Amanda has been working with the board of the Federation to ensure a smooth handover to Joe Denham.

Joe said: “Amanda has built an extensive knowledge of the UK’s gardening and pet product sectors and international retailing. On behalf of myself, the board of directors and everyone within the Federation, its member companies, the Gardenex and PetQuip team and all the valuable connections she has made over the years she has worked in this industry, we would like to thank Amanda for everything she has done to help and support UK suppliers, exhibition organisers and international retailers to expand their businesses in the UK and internationally during her many years of  service to the federation.”

Manchester-based premium pet products retailer OurPetsLife (OPL) has secured £300,000 in funding, led by GC Angels alongside private investment from crowdfunding platform, Seedrs. The investment will fuel OPL’s ambitious plans to expand internationally, develop exclusive brands, and reach more pet owners worldwide.

With UK pet owners spending £18bn annually and the global pet care industry projected to hit £300bn by 2027, OPL is well-positioned for significant growth. Already partnering with 22 distributors across 27 countries, the business is now focused on capturing a larger share of this rapidly expanding market.

Founded in 2018 by Elliot Roxby, OPL started as a bedroom business with just £5,000 in seed funding. In just five years, it has grown into a thriving retailer, surpassing £1m in annual turnover.

Offering a mix of six in-house brands and more than 40 third-party brands, OPL sells premium pet products directly through its website and Amazon, as well as through 2,000+ pet shops worldwide. From grooming essentials to ear cleaning kits, treats, and accessories, OPL caters to pets of all shapes and sizes.

With this latest funding, OPL plans to:

• Expand its product range and introduce more exclusive brands
• Grow its global distribution network in key international markets
• Strengthen its team and customer service operations, creating new jobs in Manchester
• Continue innovating in the pet care space, delivering high-quality products that enhance the bond between pets and their owners

Ranvir Singh, Investment Manager at GC Angels, said: “The pet care industry is booming, and OurPetsLife is tapping into a massive market opportunity. In 2023, Butternut Box secured £280m in funding, showing the huge potential in this space. OPL’s focus on premium, innovative products positions them for long-term success, and we’re excited to support their journey as they scale globally.”

Elliot Roxby, Founder & CEO of OurPetsLife, added: “I've always dreamed of building something special for pets and their owners. What started as an idea in my bedroom has grown into a global business, and this investment is a key milestone in our journey. With GC Angels’ backing, we’re not just expanding – we’re innovating, ensuring pet owners worldwide have access to the best products for their pets.”

3P Enterprise has announced a major milestone in the expansion of Henry Wag. In partnership with Jolly Pets, the premium pet care brand is officially launching in the US at Global Pet Expo this week.

 This marks a significant step in the brand’s international growth and commitment to providing high-quality pet accessories to a global audience.

Henry Wag, known for its innovative and practical pet care solutions, has gained a strong reputation in the UK and beyond. Its expansion into the U.S. market is a testament to the brand’s success and growing demand for premium pet products designed to enhance the health and well-being of pets.

Grantley Rogers, owner of 3P Enterprise and creator of Henry Wag, expressed his excitement about this next phase of the brand’s journey: “I’ll be joining Jolly Pets, our new U.S. distribution partner, to officially launch Henry Wag to the US pet trade at Global Pet Expo. This represents a huge milestone for the brand and a significant personal achievement. A big thank you to everyone who has helped us get to this point and to the team at Jolly Pets for embracing this exciting challenge.”

The Global Pet Expo, one of the largest and most influential pet industry trade shows, provides an unparalleled platform for brands to connect with key retailers, distributors, and industry professionals. With this launch, Henry Wag aims to introduce its premium range of pet drying and cleaning products, offering U.S. pet owners solutions that enhance hygiene, comfort, and convenience for their pets.

For further information visit www.henrywag.com, email enquiries@henrywag.com or call 01594 810990.

Pet shop owner Katie Parker will go up against her mother Pam in a prestigious Business Leader Award next week.

Katie runs Pickles Pet Pantry, a popular pet shop in the local market town of Olney, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Business Leader Award at the SME MK & Buckinghamshire Business Awards 2025, alongside Pam, Managing Director of PPSGB.

The awards ceremony will take place on Monday at Stadium MK, where the pair will compete head-to-head for the coveted title.

Pam has over 50 years business leadership experience, and now runs PPSGB, a Milton Keynes-based company specialising in the design and manufacture of protective equipment for the nuclear, pharmaceutical, and civil resilience industries. PPSGB is recognised as a leading UK manufacturer delivering bespoke solutions to hazard-prone industries. Pam’s leadership has driven growth and innovation, securing the company’s reputation both nationally and internationally.

Katie, following her own entrepreneurial path, runs Pickles Pet Pantry, known for its wide range of high-quality pet supplies and excellent customer service.

The SME MK & Buckinghamshire Business Awards, now in their ninth year, celebrate the achievements of hardworking and enterprising SMEs across the region. Winning an award is a mark of business excellence, offering valuable PR opportunities and enhancing credibility among peers and customers.

Pam and Katie’s dual nominations make for a unique and exciting family rivalry, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit that runs through the Parker family. As they await the results, both women remain proud of their contributions to their respective industries and the communities they serve.

Nova Dog Chews, a leading supplier of high-quality, natural dog treats, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this April. Since its founding in 2005, Nova has grown from a small operation into a trusted brand supplying pet retailers across the UK and beyond with premium, responsibly sourced chews and treats.

Over the past two decades, Nova has remained dedicated to its mission: providing pet owners with high-quality, natural, and nutritious products that support canine health and well-being. From the ever-popular Highland Antlers and Yak Snacks to its growing range of natural treats such as bone broths, pâtés, and air-dried chews, Nova continues to innovate while staying true to its commitment to quality.

To mark this milestone, Nova is launching an exclusive Golden Ticket Giveaway for its trade customers. Throughout April, 20 Golden Tickets will be hidden in random trade orders. Lucky winners will receive a special anniversary bundle packed with a selection of Nova’s best-selling products, a mix of new products, exclusive Nova merchandise, and more!

"We wanted to give something back to our loyal customers who have supported us over the years. This Golden Ticket Giveaway is a fun way to celebrate and thank them for being part of Nova’s journey," said Antoon Murphy, Joint Managing Director of Nova Dog Chews.

Trade customers can take part automatically by placing an order in April. Winners will given a unique golden Nova Ticket where they can call to claim their prize.

For more information, contact Nova Dog Chews or visit https://novadogchews.com

Pet care expert Beaphar has extended its popular VETOpure range of plant-based flea repellent products with new VETOpure Collars for dogs and cats.

The brand launched with a range of VETOpure Spot-Ons earlier in 2024 recognising a significant demand from a segment of pet owners seeking a more natural approach to controlling fleas. The addition of VETOpure Collars to the range offers these pet owners an additional option to control fleas and provides retailers with an opportunity to maximise sales in this high-value category.

The VETOpure flea collar range contains natural plant ingredients known to repel fleas, including Margosa extract (from the neem tree) and Lavender extract and can repel fleas for up to 12 weeks.  VETOpure Collars are available in a 65cm option for dogs, and for cats, the 35cm collar comes in two options; a green colour and a reflective finish to help cats be seen more easily at night.

A recent survey of 2000 pet owners commissioned by Beaphar found that 70% of pet owners are looking for natural solutions to fleas and around two thirds of pet owners like to use spot-ons, with the remaining third preferring a collar.

“By expanding the VETOpure range to include collars as well as spot-ons, we can provide more choice for consumers seeking natural, plant-based products,” said Claire Edmunds, Beaphar Marketing Manager. “The VETOpure range fills an important gap in a fundamental category, and comes in at an affordable price point for many shoppers, giving retailers the opportunity to offer a wide range of solutions to suit many pet owners’ needs.”

The easy-to-use VETOpure Collars and Spot-Ons should be used as part of an effective flea control programme. Fleas will often infest a pet’s basket, bedding and regular resting areas, including carpets and soft furnishings. It is recommended that these areas are treated with a suitable household insecticide, such as FLEAtec Household Spray, providing retailers with additional opportunities to increase basket size. 

To help retailers boost awareness, Beaphar have developed a range of point of sale solutions, as well as digital and social content.  

To find out more about the VETOpure Collars, retailers can visit https://bit.ly/vetopure-news or contact their Beaphar Account Manager. 

YDOLO UK & Ireland is helping dog owners make informed decisions about their puppy’s nutrition with expert guidance on when and how to transition from puppy food to adult food.

With winter puppies growing up fast, the advice provides a timely reminder for owners not to make the switch to adult food too quickly and highlights why a puppy variety is essential to growth.

Puppy food is formulated to meet the high energy and nutritional needs of growing dogs. It contains increased levels of protein, fat, and essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, all of which support bone strength, muscle development and overall well-being. Transitioning too early can impact a dog’s long-term health.

The appropriate time to transition a puppy to adult dog food varies based on their expected adult size. Generally, once puppies have reached 90% of their expected adult weight, they should switch from a growth diet to an adult one. This can be as early as nine months for small breeds to two years for larger/giant breeds.

Feeding puppy food beyond the recommended period may lead to excessive weight gain, while an early switch may deprive young dogs of essential nutrients.

The guidance in the blog on YDOLO UK and Ireland’s websites breaks this down into specific size and weights and outlines a schedule for transitioning dogs on to adult varieties to avoid digestive upsets.

YDOLO UK’s premium puppy food is specifically formulated to provide the essential nutrients required for a puppy’s healthy growth and development. With high-quality protein sources, including wild fish and pork, optimal fat levels and a carefully balanced mix of vitamins and minerals, it supports strong bones, muscle development, and a robust immune system. This ensures that puppies receive the best start in life before transitioning to a variety of single-source protein flavours within YDOLO’s equally nutritious adult dog food range.

"Understanding your dog’s nutritional needs at each life stage ensures they grow and thrive," said Gary Gilmore, Owner of YDOLO UK and Ireland. "We are committed to providing pet owners with the knowledge and high-quality food needed to support their dog’s well-being."

For more information read the blog on https://ydolo.co.uk/how-long-should-a-puppy-stay-on-puppy-food/

TropiClean has just launched its newest innovation, available exclusively through Pedigree Wholesale. The Chew Stop Behaviour Aid is available in three distinctive formulas for use in the home, for dogs, and a gentler option for puppies. Across these formats, the product has been designed with sour, spicy, and bitter ingredients scientifically proven to deter dogs. 

This powerful range of deterrent sprays is designed to prevent destructive chewing and scratching on furniture, carpets, shoes and plants. Rigorously tested, is proven to have up to a 95% deterrence rate compared to other leading brands at up to 22%. 

The Chew Stop Behaviour Aid promotes positive training by building trust, reinforcing good behaviour, and strengthening the bond between pets and owners. Using gentle redirection instead of punishment, it encourages pets to make better choices, nurturing confidence, and creating a happy environment at home.

TropiClean is available exclusively to the specialist pet trade through Pedigree Wholesale. Visit https://petproducts.co.uk/tropiclean/ or speak to your local Business Development Manager, Telephone Account Manager or their friendly Customer Services Team to find out more.

TropiClean is a recognised leader in natural health and wellness pet products. Founded in 1980, TropiClean is family-owned and operated in the USA. Pedigree Wholesale stocks a variety of TropiClean products that make bath time and teeth cleaning time easy and effective. From dental solutions to grooming essentials, Pedigree has a TropiClean product to keep your customers' pets healthy and fresh.

Dorwest Herbs is raising awareness for how to support fertility and hormones with natural supplements, as whether choosing to breed or not, entire females can be subject to some very specific issues including false pregnancy. 

When breeding, any bitch’s state of health and fitness prior to mating and throughout pregnancy is fundamental in ensuring the best possible outcomes for both her and potential puppies. Wheatgerm oil is naturally rich in vitamin E, a potent antioxidant which neutralises free-radicals produced as a by-product of everyday cell functions. A plentiful supply of vitamin E is beneficial to keep them in check.  

Dorwest’s Wheatgerm Oil Capsules can be given year-round to help maintain fertility and a healthy reproductive system in both male and female pets. Important for the healthy function of skin, coat and the nervous system, vitamin E is widely used to help maintain fertility and a healthy reproductive system in both male and female animals. 

Raspberry leaf is a birth aid recommended by healthcare professionals for centuries; working to tone and strengthen the muscles of the uterus in preparation for birth, helping to ensure a smooth labour for your dog. False, pseudo or phantom pregnancies can affect un-neutered bitches due to individual response to normal hormonal changes associated with her season. They usually start after the first or second season and symptoms range from mild, unsettled behaviour to more extreme nesting habits such as carrying toys and depression. Physical changes can also occur including: body shape, enlarged teats and even milk production. 

Dorwest’s Raspberry Leaf Tablets can help dogs cope better with hormonal changes by helping maintain normal balance; started three weeks after mating and continued until one week after whelping, or used from the first sign of her coming into season and continuing for 12 weeks to support a phantom.  

“Balance is important in life,” says MD Jo Boughton-White, “For your bitch, this is especially true when it comes to hormones. These naturally fluctuate but if the balance gets thrown off too far, it can cause problems. Speak to one of our expert team today for advice, from how to support fertility as a breeder, to combatting phantom pregnancy symptoms, in a natural way.” 

To find out more visit www.dorwest.com/collections/hormones-fertility or call 01308 897272 or email info@dorwest.com

Three Sussex friends who created a unique dog enrichment toy have partnered with an ethical canine training course provider to help dogs all over the country.

Marketing experts and dog lovers Lee Bridges, John Allard and Rich Cruden, who live in East Sussex started their Play9 business in 2023, and created the Roolo a toy which designed to engage dogs' natural instincts through a multifaceted approach that promotes scent work, problem-solving, slow feeding, and active play.

Since then the Roolo has appeared in the media, won a national pet industry award, and been given ten out of ten by The Telegraph.

Designed in partnership with Lee's dog behaviourist wife Hannah, the pair wanted to involve Canine Principles in the story of the business, as that is where Hannah studied to become a dog expert.

And now, the partnership means that anyone taking part in a course with the company will learn all about the cleverly designed toy, which provides mental enrichment as well as exercise for dogs all over the UK.

Lee said: "Hannah had such an exceptional experience with Canine Principles so it's really a match made in heaven, they are such a brilliant ethical organisation, and understand what we are trying to achieve with the Roolo.

"Since we launched we have all these markers which make us feel like things are going in the right direction, and this is certainly one of those moments."

The Roolo is a uniquely shaped treat dispensing dog toy, which is suitable for even the most boisterous of dogs. As well as being a fun game, the toy is designed to give mental stimulation to the pet, and is perfect for times when it is not possible to go out for a long walk due to illness, injury or simply the bad weather.

Jo Middleton, owner of Canine Principles, said: "We love the Roolo and are proud to be part of this partnership. This is not just a dog toy, and helps dog owners give their pet something which really helps keep them mentally healthy and happy.

"A lot of what Canine Principles does is around behaviour and better understanding the dogs that we live alongside and care for. And this is exactly what the folks at Roolo have done when designing their product."

To find out more about Canine Principles go to https://www.canineprinciples.com

To find out more about the Roolo go to https://play9.co.uk

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A new raw dog food supermarket is opening in York and will cater to the “growing demand for biologically appropriate pet diets”, according to the York Press.

The supermarket is set to open on Saturday, April 5, in Clifton Moor and will stock premium raw pet food and natural treats.

Wagging Tail Raw Dog Food, which already has a shop in Northallerton, is behind the venture.

A company spokesperson told the York Press that the new store aims to “educate and support pet owners in transitioning to raw feeding while making premium pet nutrition more accessible and affordable”.

To read the full story click here.

A leading retailers' association has said the Chancellor's Spring Statement delivered yesterday failed to address the 'perfect storm' of cost pressures facing independent retailers across the UK.

Despite prior calls for support on town centre investment, retail crime, and economic development, the Spring Statement made no specific provisions for the independent retail sector, which is facing unprecedented challenges including National Insurance increases, rising business rates, and increased wage costs.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), said: "While we welcome the Chancellor's focus on economic growth, we are deeply concerned that the Spring Statement has overlooked the immediate crisis facing independent retailers. Our members are confronting a perfect storm of rising costs – from the 140% increase in business rates to the National Living Wage rise and National Insurance changes – all while consumer spending remains subdued.

"The Chancellor's forecasts of improved household income may offer some long-term optimism, but they do nothing to address the immediate cash flow challenges our members face. Many independent retailers are making difficult decisions right now about whether they can continue trading under these conditions."

Bira, which works with over 6,000 independent retailers across the country, had previously outlined three key priorities for the Chancellor to address: continued investment for town centres and high streets; fully funded policing to address retail crime; and making economic development a statutory requirement for local authorities.

Mr Goodacre added: "We specifically called for continued investment in our high streets, proper funding to tackle retail crime, and a statutory requirement for local authorities to prioritise economic development. It's disappointing that Rachel Reeves has not responded to any of these crucial areas in her statement today.

"The Chancellor spoke about being 'impatient for change' and the British people being 'impatient for change' – our members are certainly impatient for meaningful support that recognises their vital contribution to local economies and communities."

While the Spring Statement predicts economic growth and improved household disposable income, with the OBR forecasting people will be "over £500 a year better off," Bira questions whether this will materialise quickly enough to help struggling retailers.

Mr Goodacre further added: "Independent retailers are naturally resilient and optimistic, but even the most positive business owners are finding it difficult to maintain that outlook in the current climate. If the government truly wants to 'deliver prosperity for working people,' as the Chancellor stated, they must not forget the thousands of independent retailers who provide jobs and services in communities across Britain.

"We urge the Chancellor to reconsider her approach before the full Budget in the autumn and engage meaningfully with the independent retail sector to prevent further closures and job losses on our high streets."

Vital Pet Group has appointed Hannah Green as Business Development Manager. 

Having worked within the pet sector for a decade, Hannah will be a familiar face to retailers within the trade and will be an exceptional force in delivering our market-leading portfolio and services to customers.
 
Peter Brame, Group Trading Director, commented: “We are delighted that Hannah has joined the team here at Vital Pet Group. She has a wealth of experience and has built up relationships for many years amongst hundreds of retail customers. 

“Her fun and outgoing personality will be a great addition to the team where she will continue to foster and develop business across the north of England.”

Whiskey, a one-year-old beloved domestic short-hair cat from Hatfield, has defied the odds and survived a house fire. She was dramatically rescued by the local fire and paramedic services and taken to the Royal Veterinary College’s (RVC) Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, whilst her owner was being admitted to hospital. Whiskey is now safe and well, and reunited with her owner, Ellie, after both making a full recovery. 

Paramedics realised Whiskey needed urgent veterinary care as she was suffering from signs of severe smoke inhalation and hypoxic shock. Symptoms included rapid breathing, poor responsiveness, elevated heart rate, hypotension and hypothermia. This left her with neurological difficulties too, including being unable to walk or use the litter tray, partial blindness and experiencing full body tremors.

The out-of-hours hospital emergency team at the RVC took immediate action, conducting an ultrasound on Whiskey’s lungs and placing her in an oxygen kennel to ensure she received oxygen into her system as quickly as possible. Whiskey was then carefully monitored by the team who provided the care and the medication she needed to recover.

This rapid response saw Whiskey slowly stabilise to normal body temperature, heart rate, breathing and bodily functions, as well as regain her movement and eyesight.

Whiskey was at RVC’s specialist hospital for six days. She made an excellent recovery before being reunited with Ellie. Whiskey then returned for her final check-up at the hospital a few days later.

Whiskey is now back to her usual self, purring away and seeking lots of cuddles and strokes.

Ellie Mouratsing, Whiskey’s owner, said: “The care was brilliant, and I could see the RVC emergency team really cared about Whiskey. I am very grateful for their amazing work in helping her recover.”

Dr Karen Humm, Co-Head of the Emergency and Critical Department and Director of the Transfusion Medicine Service at the RVC’s Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, said: “Whiskey certainly has used up one of her nine lives! Her treatment was a huge team effort – involving amazing vets, vet nurses and students. Cases like hers can be very challenging and so access to specialist knowledge and excellent nursing care really makes a big difference – significantly increasing chances of survival. We’re delighted that Whiskey and her owner, Ellie have made a good recovery.”  

Brambles Pet and Wildlife owners David and Gail Tracey, pictured receiving a Highly Commended in the Supplier of the Year category at the 2023 PetQuip Awards, have sold their shares to pet food manufacturer Fold Hill Foods.

Brambles Pet and Wildlife was established in 2017 with David using his 30 years pet trade experience and Gail applying her scientific knowledge to develop a range of wildlife foods that has benefitted wildlife all over the UK. T

heir first customer was the RSPB who were impressed with their knowledge and, in particular with their approach of only ensuring nutritionally beneficial ingredients are used for the animals the food is designed for. Since then the brand has gone from strength to strength with large production runs, akin to major dog food brands, the norm. The brand is highly respected and recommended by wildlife rescues all over the UK.

David will be continuing to help develop the brand and will still be the first point of contact for customers. Gail will be helping during the handover period and is still on hand to help with her scientific knowledge and educational posts on social media. 

Lincolnshire based Fold Hill Foods, are also a family business that shares similar ethics to Brambles Pet and Wildlife with a commitment to producing nutritionally beneficial foods for animals and an ethos of putting the environment first in everything they do.

Gail and David commented: "Fold  Hill Foods have been producing Brambles wildlife food for a number of years now and we’re delighted with the food they produce. The team at Fold Hill are a pleasure to work with and Brambles is a natural fit within Fold Hill’s portfolio. It will be business as normal going forward and we can’t wait to see how the brand thrives under the new ownership."

Ben Mankertz, Managing Director of Fold Hill Foods said: “We’re delighted to complete the acquisition of Brambles Pet and Wildlife.  Having worked with David and Gail over the past few years producing some of the range, we’ve been hugely impressed by their dedication and expertise with regards to ensuring hedgehogs only receive the right nutrition for their diets.  Their knowledge has helped to grow Brambles to the number one brand in the sector today, so when the opportunity arose for us to acquire the business it was a perfect fit for us.  We’re also pleased that David will remain in place supporting the brand for the foreseeable future.  With our combined expertise and growth plans for the brand it is an exciting time for Brambles and Fold Hill.”

The Pet Industry Federation has launched a nationwide spring-themed pet window display competition – Paws in Spring – celebrating the creativity and dedication of UK pet retailers.

PIF is inviting pet shops across the UK to transform their shop windows into stunning seasonal displays that showcase their unique branding, alongside a selection of pet products and festive décor. The competition aims to highlight the importance of pet retailers while encouraging consumer engagement and footfall to local stores.

Retailers are encouraged to design eye-catching window displays incorporating Spring motifs, and a selection of leading pet brands. Thanks to the generosity of participating pet product manufacturers, fantastic prize bundles will be awarded to the top three winning displays and all entries will receive a voucher from Doodlebone. 

Participating manufacturers are:

• Furr Boost
• Cobbydog
• On Tha Moor
• The Holistic Hound
• The Barking Bakery
• VANDERPETS
• Doodlebone
• DotDotPet
• HayPigs!
• No Fuss Fill
• ANCOL
• Trinkety Paws
• Nutriment
• Natural Instinct
• Nova
• Dibo
• Aniforte
• The Dog Butcher
• Betty Miller
• Karnlea
• Big Dog Bed Company

PIF CEO Nigel Baker said: “The ‘Paws in Spring’ competition is a wonderful way to shine a spotlight on the incredible creativity of pet retailers. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for manufacturers to showcase their products, for retailers to engage their local communities, and for pet owners to celebrate their favourite shops.”

Retailers are invited to submit photos of their decorated shop windows by Thursday 17 April. A panel of industry experts, including representatives from participating manufacturers, will judge the displays, with winners announced shortly after Easter.

For more details, visit https://petfederation.co.uk/paws-in-spring/ and follow #pawsinspring on PIF’s social media channels and dedicated competition landing page.

Manchester-based EHE Ventures has made a ‘significant’ six-figure investment via its AI Growth Fund into London AI-powered startup Scooch.

Scooch, which describes itself as an all-in-one subscription service designed to take the hassle out of pet healthcare, was founded by Baris Ozaydinli (pictured above).

EHE Venture Studio (made up of EHE Ventures and The Startup Factory) was founded in 2024 to support companies that are either AI-first or AI-enabled and plans to invest up to £5m this year exclusively in high-growth and early-stage AI companies via the fund.

News of the debut investment has coincided with the appointment of Neil Vose as the first CEO of EHE Venture Studio.

Vose said: “We’re really excited by this investment into Scooch and expect to announce three to four other deals in the coming weeks.

“We’re different to other investors because we don’t just provide funding. As a Venture Studio, we can also advise and build the tech through our engineering arm, known to many as The Startup Factory.

“So we’re building and investing in the tech that will define the next generation.

“We were really impressed by the quality of Scooch’s management team, which is why we chose to invest in them.

“Scooch is using an AI co-pilot to effectively build a data-driven tech health marketplace and we think it can become a really big player in the market.

“Scooch is our first, and currently, only planned direct-to-consumer investment. Most of them will be B2B.”

EHE Venture Studio, via the fund, intends to raise a total of £15m to focus on nurturing UK-based entrepreneurs at the pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages.

Vose, who has a background in commercialising technology and digital transformation, said: “A lot of founders can’t get the investment or the tech help needed to get an MVP to market. We can help with all of that.”

Baris Ozaydinli, founder and CEO of award-winning Scooch, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with EHE as it is a fund founded by inspirational exited founders who know how difficult it is to be a founder and there is also an expert team supporting the companies.

“We are on a mission to take the guesswork out of pet care with a vision to be the go-to pet health platform for the modern pet parent.

“We are going to use the investment for launching our brand new embedded pet insurance, Scooch Protect and AI-powered mobile app, Scooch Health.”

EHE Venture Studio forms part of the wider EHE Group, which was founded by serial entrepreneurs Guy Remond, founder and former CEO of Cake Solutions, and Gary Fletcher, founder of Forest Holidays.

EHE Venture Studio recently teamed up with venture capital firm, Praetura Ventures, to create an online platform called Founder Hub to help early-stage entrepreneurs in the North of England access scaling skills and navigate the startup ecosystem.

Award-winning pet retailer Jollyes has opened its two newest superstores in Chichester and Pontefract. The stores at Portfield Trade Centre, Chichester, and South Baileygate Retail Park, Pontefract, were officially opened by special guests.

Performing the red ribbon cutting at Chichester was Mayor Councillor Sarah Quail. Alongside The Mayor was Liberal Democrat MP Jess Brown-Fuller and her golden Labrador rescue dog Mellow, who bit through a string of sausages to declare the store open.

Meanwhile at Pontefract, the red ribbon cutting was done by Mayor of Wakefield Darren Byfield, a regular shopper at Jollyes. Retired service dog Kaydee has happy to oblige with the sausage-biting ceremony.

Both storers have created 10 new jobs for their areas.

Chichester store manager Chris Ratcliffe and Pontefract store manager Meg Percival said: “We’re delighted to have brought Jollyes to our towns. Both teams are excited to bring their pet expertise alongside the kind of value that’s been making a real difference to pet parents right across the UK.”

See gallery of pictures from both stores below…