2013-PATS-logos---joint 

In This Issue
Challenging year ahead for the pet industry
Great opportunities exist for forward-looking businesses
Microchipping will be a hot topic in 2013
Educate and motivate your sales teams
Manufacturers need to keep innovating
Premium pet food products will continue to grow
Greater emphasis being placed on pet health care
Rocky road for the pet trade
Pet shops need to diversify
Pet departments in garden centres offer huge potential
Investment is key to the future
Owners and pets told to get fit
Pet Product & People News
New Anti-Slip Training Pads from Animal Instincts


Anti-Slip Training Pads are the latest addition to the Animal Instincts range of pet accessories, available exclusively from Pedigree Wholesale...
Read more»
Peckish advert hits TV screens


Westland’s quirky TV ad for Peckish bird food will reach millions of consumers this month as it is screened across ITV, Channel 5 and Sky...
Read more»
New Pet Care Manager at Gardman


Nicola Beet has been appointed Category Manager for Pet Care at Gardman...
Read more»
New Catit Design Home products for cats


Hagen has launched an attractive yet functional array of innovative cat products for contemporary times under its Catit Design Home brand...
Read more»
Send us your news
For enquiries concerning Pet Trade Xtra email neil.pope@tgcmc.co.uk
News items and views on topical issues are welcome.
For advertising details email pat.flynn@tgcmc.co.uk

Great opportunities exist for forward-looking businesses
 
Nigel Baker
Nigel Baker
Nigel Baker, the new chief executive of the Pet Care Trade Association and the Pet Care Trust, believes there are many opportunities for pet businesses to reach out to more customers.
 
"I believe a good year lies ahead," said Nigel. "The PCTA is well positioned to lead on this and help members prosper both through value added membership benefits and business support.

"We will shortly announce some significant changes to the way the PCTA operates and innovative benefits packages for members. I am looking for these changes to increase membership and give the industry a stronger voice with government – local, UK and EU."
 
So what does he think are the challenges facing the industry?

"With talk of a triple dip recession, savvy consumers will be seeking convincing justification for their pet spending," added Nigel.

"Pet businesses must work harder than ever to inform and educate their customers about how their products and services can meet their needs.

"Greater differentiation on customer service and product offering will help drive repeat business."
 
And Nigel thinks there is cause for optimism because the UK is a dynamic pet owning country.

"It means there are opportunities for all of our members to participate in this growing industry which has proven to be robust, despite the challenges of the economic environment in recent years."
 
Nigel is now six weeks into his role as chief executive of the PCTA and  he feels 2013 is already shaping up very well.

"We will shortly be announcing dates and programmes for two exciting events for this year.

"This year’s British Dog Grooming Championship promises to provide the biggest ever platform for groomers to demonstrate their talents in a day packed full of inspiration and entertainment, with innovative attractions sure to draw the crowds.

"And we are very excited to deliver a large scale Pet Industry Forum event which will host intelligent debate over the hottest topics pet businesses are encountering, and will provide unique training and networking opportunities."

Visit www.petcare.org.uk for the latest information.

Email Newsletter Software by Newsweaver