The very best of the UK pet industry came together last night (Thursday 6 November) for the Pet Industry Federation Awards 2025, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Stoke-on-Trent.

More than 300 guests attended the glittering black-tie dinner and awards ceremony, which celebrated excellence and achievement across the full breadth of the pet sector: from retailers, groomers and daycare providers to manufacturers, suppliers and new businesses. The Awards were led by Nigel Baker, PIF CEO, with guest presenter, Simon Lewis of PBW News.

This year’s Awards featured a record 27 categories, reflecting the continued innovation, care and professionalism within the industry. New categories included Raw Store of the Year, won by Stefs Pet Pantry, and Best Newcomer, awarded to Alex Dimmock of Bella + Duke.

The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Gordon Thomas, long-time organiser of PATS, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the UK pet industry over many years. Ahead of the Awards, guests raised their glasses to industry stalwart, John James, of James & Steel, who sadly died earlier this year. James & Steel were generous sponsors of the drinks at the Awards.

Nigel Baker, Chief Executive of the Pet Industry Federation, said: “The PIF Awards are the highlight of our calendar and are a chance to recognise the passion, commitment and creativity that drive our industry forward. Each year the calibre of entries rises, making the judging process increasingly tough. What remains constant is the clear dedication to animal welfare that sits at the heart of every business represented.”

The Pet Industry Federation extends its sincere thanks to all sponsors for their continued support, in particular Platinum Sponsor, Natures Menu; and Headline Sponsors: The Animal People Recruitment Company, Cliverton and Nutriment, and all the category sponsors, whose partnership made the event possible.

The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Gordon Thomas (above centre), long-time organiser of PATS, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the UK pet industry. 

A total of 27 honours were handed out at the PIF Awards 2025.

PIF Award Winners 2025

Innovation Award – sponsored by Worldpay
Muzzle Movement – Size Mitzy

Best Newcomer – sponsored by The Animal People Recruitment Company
Alex Dimmock – Bella + Duke

Cattery of the Year – sponsored by James & Steel
Farm Springs Cattery

Pet Retail Chain – sponsored by Naturo
Pet Pavilion

Dog Daycare Business of the Year – sponsored by Collar
The Doggy Daycare Centre

Dog Walking Business of the Year – sponsored by Collar
Beacon Barkers

Export Award – sponsored by Associated Veterinary Services
Boil & Broth

Garden Centre Pet Department of the Year – sponsored by Natures Menu
Homeleigh Garden Centre, Bude

Grooming Business of the Year – sponsored by Buddycare
Pet Pavilion

Home Boarding Business of the Year – sponsored by Cliverton
The Country Dog Hotel & Spa

Independent Retailer of the Year – sponsored by Bella+Duke
Superpet Warehouse

Kennel of the Year – sponsored by Collar
Canine Karma

Manufacturer of the Year (Over £10m ) –  sponsored by Anthesis
Landguth Heimtiernahrung

Manufacturer of the Year (Under £10m) – sponsored by Anthesis
Cobbydog

New Business of the Year – sponsored by Worldpay
Sniffer Shop

New Product (Accessories) – sponsored by PBW News
Pawdaw of London, Luxury Amenity Pack for Dogs

New Product (Food) – sponsored by PBW News
Nutriment Gently Steamed Range

New Product (Health & Hygiene) – sponsored by National Pet Shop Day
Karnlea Cat Supplement Toppers

New Product (Treats) – sponsored by the Big Biscuit Company
Antler Chew Venison Sticks

Online Business of the Year – sponsored by Worldpay
Dorwest Herbs

Pet Service Business of the Year – sponsored by Cliverton
Yorkshire Pooches Therapies

Pet Tech Business of the Year – sponsored by PBW News
Petscribers

Raw Store of the Year – sponsored by Nutriment
Stefs Pet Pantry

Supplier of the Year – sponsored by Dog Friendly
Herbal Dog Co

Sustainability Award – sponsored by Citation
Doglyness

Wholesaler of the Year – sponsored by Natures Menu
Vital Pet Group

Marketing Campaign of the Year – sponsored by Nobull
Tug-E-Nuff

Lifetime Achievement – sponsored by PATS
Gordon Thomas

Pet industry expert Steve Driver has urged suppliers and manufacturers to give extra support to independent pet retailers during the current economic climate.

With the Chancellor’s Autumn budget looming later this month, Steve said suppliers should make some products exclusive to independents so that pet owners had a reason to shop with them.

Steve added: “We all need to work together and support the independents.”

The managing director of Pet Trade Innovations, who has offered advice to SMEs at various pet industry forums, gave his assessment of the state of play in the UK pet industry.

How would you assess the current pet market in the UK? 

It seems very quiet in the market – order value is down and I think consumers are worried about money. People seem to be waiting for the budget and the impact this might have on their finances 

Are independent pet retailers given enough help and support in these challenging times? 

It’s very difficult for a retailer if customers aren’t coming into the stores or they are just buying the essentials. There are lots of promotions and deals out there at the moment which can help but I feel a lot of consumers are being driven into budget stores because money is tight. If everything starts coming down to price this can be challenging.

Does the supply chain get enough assistance/encouragement from government?

We don’t get any encouragement from the government or support. We are left to fend for ourselves and when business drops off we just have to try and ride these times out. 

What advice would you give to small businesses in the pet market – both retailers and manufacturers/suppliers?

Review all your costs and run as lean as you possibly can so you are more robust during tough times. For me it’s about getting your brand or business in front of more customers so they at least have the chance to make a decision on buying. Social media is still great for this and can be combined with Ai to make some interesting and stimulating posts. Once you have a customer in your store then look at new ways to upsell and keep things fresh each couple of weeks. Focus on a few star products that can add extra pounds to the basket spend. 

How important is social media in getting a marketing message out there?

It can be very important and worked the right way there is a lot of free marketing available. If you can give consumers a good reason to visit your store with maybe a very strong deal on an essential, or something new and exciting, then you have the opportunity to sell them something else at full cost price. 

What needs to happen to make sure the UK pet market remains strong in difficult times?

We all need to work together and support the independents. The problem is the volume is now coming out of discounters and online stores but the independent retailer is still important, offering great customer service, more premium products and a better selection of brands. We all need to support the retailers and keep some products exclusive to them so pet owners still have a reason to go there.

Marleybones, the premium dog food brand behind Pantry Fresh meals, has raised £2.5m in funding to accelerate growth.

The funding round was led by TAW Ventures, the investment firm founded by Jane Lauder, with follow-on support from existing backers JamJar Investments, Active Partners, and Animal Health Angels. 

Successfully fundraising in today’s climate is an achievement in itself, but what makes this announcement especially notable is the remarkable representation of women on both sides of the table. Marleybones is not only female-founded, but the round was also led by an all-female investor team – a statistical anomaly across the European Venture Capital industry. 

Founded in 2020, Marleybones was inspired by a frustration with the lack of balance between quality and convenience in existing dog food offerings. Thus, they created their own pantry fresh solution – meals that are slow-cooked, nutritionally complete, and packed in sustainable cartons. Alongside its core meals (Boss Beef, Chic Chicken, Lush Lamb, and Sassy Salmon), Marleybones also offers functional, vet developed supplements, an omega oil, and natural air-dried treats – all vet-approved, locally made in the UK, and tailored to modern dog families.

Jane Lauder, founder and managing director at TAW Ventures, commented: “Like the Marleybones team, TAW Ventures was inspired by my dog, Thaddeus, and driven by a shared commitment to advancing pet health, wellness, and longevity. Josephine and Mikala are redefining what dogs deserve at mealtime, and we’re thrilled to partner with them as they continue transforming dog dining across the UK.”

This latest investment comes on the back of over 200% growth since the company’s last funding round, as well as several other noteworthy Marleybones milestones, including: 

• Expanding their retail presence to Pets at Home, Co-op and Ocado.
• Expanding product offerings with key partners such as Waitrose and Whole Foods Market.
• Launching a line of functional vet-developed supplements.
• Piloting a veterinary channel to bring Marleybones closer to clinics and professionals.
• Achieving a Trustpilot rating of 4.8/5 and a growing subscriber community.

Additionally, they have achieved the following sustainability milestones: 

• Partnered with rePurpose Global to achieve plastic-neutral certification.
• Used locally sourced British ingredients for 100% of products produced in the UK.
• Packed all meals in fully recyclable Tetra Pak cartons (avoiding millions of single-use plastic pouches and trays).

Commenting on the company’s growth, Marleybones co-founder Josephine Bager said: “Dog parents shouldn’t have to choose between quality and convenience. With Pantry Fresh meals, we’ve proven it’s possible to achieve both. This funding allows us to reach even more pet parents and further define ‘fresh’ food for dogs.”

Co-founder Mikala Skov added: “We’ve built strong traction across D2C and retail, expanded into supplements, and proven category demand with triple-digit growth. With TAW Ventures and JamJar by our side, we’re ready to accelerate our journey to make Pantry Fresh a household standard.”

On the heels of this fundraising round, the Marleybones team will scale across creative, customer experience, and retail, while building brand awareness through influencers, PR, retail activations, and events. The team is looking forward to accelerating performance marketing and acquisition. 

Premium fresh dog food brand Years has announced an exclusive partnership with specialist pet retail chain Just for Pets, unveiling bespoke, limited-edition and seasonal recipes.

The collaboration represents a strategic step for both brands, combining Years’ expertise in fresh dog food with Just for Pets focus on premium, ethically driven retail. The partnership includes a range of exclusive recipes developed by Years in house pet chefs and nutritionists.

“We’re delighted to collaborate with Just for Pets on our first retail partnership including Just for Pets exclusive recipes,” said Darren Beale, founder of Years. “The partnership allows us to showcase the craftmanship behind our recipes in a trusted retail environment that truly values pet health and wellbeing.” 

Paul Lewis, managing director at Just for Pets, added: “We are committed to offering customers innovative, responsible brands that put pets first. Years has built an excellent reputation for quality and transparency, and this partnership allows us to add fresh dog food to our premium food offering.”  

The range includes Years existing product range offering gourmet everyday as well as exclusive, limited edition and seasonal recipes available only to Just for Pets customers in store.

The Years range will be available from tomorrow (Friday) in all 24 Just for Pets stores with supporting POS, store team training and consumer education, and experiential events in store.

Just for Pets customers can also enjoy seven days of Years for their dog from just £7 with free shipping using the code: JUSTFORPETS

For further information go to www.justforpets.co.uk/years

Supreme Petfoods has been named in Pet Age’s 2025 Power 50, recognising companies shaping the future of the pet industry through leadership, innovation, and impact. The honour underscores Supreme’s science-led approach to small pet nutrition and its role in driving category growth for retailers.

For over 30 years, Supreme Petfoods has specialised in species-specific nutrition for small pets, developing high-quality, palatable diets and supplements without added sugars. Its portfolio – including the premium Selective range featuring new Naturals Botanicals, Tiny Friends Farm, and the expanded Science Selective Care supplements range – helps retailers elevate the small pet aisle by driving repeat purchase, shopper loyalty, and strong margins.

“We’re honoured to be included in Pet Age’s 2025 Power 50,” said Claire Hamblion, Marketing Director at Supreme Petfoods. “This recognition reflects our team’s dedication to advancing small pet health with science-backed nutrition, and to partnering with retailers and veterinary professionals to grow the category responsibly.”

The Power 50 distinction comes as Supreme continues to expand its health-focused offerings. The Science Selective Care supplements range provides targeted support for small herbivores across key need states and life stages, aligning with rising owner engagement in preventive pet health and wellness.

Retailers and industry partners can learn more about Supreme’s award-winning portfolio at supremepetfoods.com or by contacting experts@supremepetfoods.com.

Pets4Homes, the world’s largest operator of online pet marketplaces, has announced the acquisition of British company Breedera, the app that helps responsible breeders stay organised and compliant while raising healthy, well-socialised dogs.

Breedera founder Mike White joins Pets4Homes as Head of Breeder Success, working in the UK and across Europe before expanding globally. His role will focus on integrating Breedera within Pets4Homes and ensuring breeders everywhere have access to the tools, insights, and marketplace reach they need.

The number of UK breeders (defined as people who have bred at least one litter) is estimated by Breedera and NatureWatch’s data to be over 120,000. Designed to take the administrative burden off breeders’ shoulders, Breedera was founded so more attention can be placed on caring for the dogs and their litters.

Breedera’s user base has doubled in the last two years, reaching 5,000 monthly active users in 91 countries, including the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. The app brings together all essential records such as heat cycles, matings, pregnancies, whelping, weights, feeds, treatments, and starter packs for new owners, keeping everything organised and accessible in one place. 

It supports breeders end-to-end, from the first signs of a heat cycle to the day each puppy finds their home and is targeted at dog breeders who are tracking a pregnancy, have litters on the ground and are planning their next litter.

Breedera began as a collaboration between entrepreneur Mike White and software developer Chris Hill, who believed breeders deserved tools shaped by their real-world experience. From the start, they involved breeders directly – sharing prototypes, listening to feedback and refining the app together. Before founding Breedera, Mike worked in his family’s veterinary equipment business, where he spent years speaking with animal lovers, breeders and specialists across the UK.

His experience inspired him to develop practical digital tools that support animal welfare and the future of responsible breeding.

The acquisition extends Pets4Homes’ mission to make pet rehoming transparent, safe and supportive at every stage of a dog’s breeding journey. The deal reflects both companies’ shared belief that better technology makes responsible breeding easier, as well as enabling the smoothest possible transition for the new dog owners.

Both Pets4Homes and Breedera share a mutual understanding that pets are not simply products for sale, but living beings entrusted to responsible breeders who provide a service built on care, planning, and trust. Responsible breeders select the right parents, support mothers through pregnancy, track every detail of health and growth, and prepare each puppy for life with the right family.

Together, Pets4Homes and Breedera will make that responsibility simple and visible – combining Pets4Homes’s scale and safeguarding systems with Breedera’s breeder-designed features that make good habits effortless.

Breedera will continue to operate under its own brand, powered by Pets4Homes’s technology and reach. Together they are connecting breeders, platforms and pet parents with one shared mission: giving every animal the best possible start in life.

Mike White said: “I started Breedera because I kept hearing the same frustration: breeders drowning in paperwork. Our purpose has always been to relieve responsible breeders from overwhelm, to give them back time for their dogs and their passion. Joining Pets4Homes means we can support breeders from the first signs of a heat cycle to the day each puppy finds their home.”

Axel Lagercrantz, CEO of Pets4Homes, added: “We’ve known Mike and Breedera for years and have always admired their commitment to responsible breeding. Now is the right time to come together and extend that purpose across Pets4Homes’ user base. Pets4Homes deeply values its relationship with breeders and this acquisition means we can better support responsible breeding throughout the process.”

Natural pet food brand Applaws is expanding its wet food portfolio with the launch of bone broths for cats – a new sub-category designed to help retailers capitalise on the surge in functional and natural pet nutrition.

According to the 2025 Treats & Toppings Study, nearly half of UK cat owners (47%) prioritise natural ingredients when choosing treats or toppers, while 72% say they would buy toppers that both enhance flavour and deliver health benefits.

Broths and soups are already among the fastest-growing topper formats, making this innovation a timely addition for retailers looking to meet evolving consumer expectations and drive incremental category growth.

“Applaws’ commitment to natural, functional nutrition continues to shape our innovation strategy,” said Audrey Mulhall, Global Brand Director at MPM, the global natural pet food company behind Applaws.

“The launch of our bone broths range represents the next exciting chapter of our growth journey and is a way to help our retail partners tap into consumer demand for products that combine taste, health and trust.”

With health-led formulations now driving NPD across the pet food market, and 85% of pet owners viewing their pets’ nutrition as important as their own, Applaws bone broth toppers have been designed to meet this shift head-on.

Retailers stocking bone broths can benefit from increased repeat purchase, as well as cross-category uplift from encouraging shoppers to trade up from dry to wet or mixed feeding.

Each 85g spout pouch is made with 100% natural ingredients, including real tuna fillet or salmon flakes to boost palatability. Naturally rich in collagen, these broths are designed to support hydration and overall feline wellness, meeting the needs of cats with a naturally low thirst drive while providing owners with a simple and functional way to enhance mealtimes.

“Bone broths are a natural extension of our brand,” added Jennifer Warder, innovation manager at Applaws. “It meets the rising demand for functional, premium nutrition, while giving retailers an easy way to grow basket spend and encourage trial of the wider Applaws wet range.”

Key product benefits:

• 100% natural ingredients – High-quality protein from real fish
• Functional benefits – Supports hydration and provides naturally occurring collagen
• Retail opportunity – Encourages repeat purchase and cross-category trial

Available now at Pets at Home, the Applaws Bone Broths launch will be supported with in-store POS.

A UK pet care start-up behind the world’s first cat-friendly toothbrush has been named one of Europe’s most innovative companies, winning the Fressnapf Innovation Award 2025.

The win secures Inventor Smart Care shelf space in Fressnapf stores across Denmark, Switzerland and Austria, alongside entry into the German Fressnapf Marketplace, Europe’s largest pet retail network.

“First time in Germany — and definitely not the last,” said Victor Carpio, Founder and CEO of Inventor Smart Care. “This award is a huge honour and an exciting step in our mission to keep millions of cats healthy and happy.”

Founded in 2023, Inventor Smart Care set out to tackle one of the most persistent issues in pet health: dental disease. Despite decades of “gold standard” recommendations, 85% of cats over the age of three still show signs of dental disease.

Its flagship innovation, the Dental Wand, takes a cat-first approach — allowing the animal’s instincts to lead the brushing experience through interactive play rather than restraint. The result: a cat toothbrush that requires no technical skill, encourage corporation from the cat, and one that boosts the human-animal bond. It has an 89% success rate and has already sold in 16 countries.

The Fressnapf Innovation Award — one of the most respected honours in the European pet sector — recognises products that meaningfully improve pet wellbeing. This win gives Inventor Smart Care access to more than 1,800 Fressnapf stores and their marketplace ecosystem, significantly accelerating its European footprint.

Fressnapf Holding SE, headquartered in Germany, operates across 14 countries and serves millions of customers every week. By partnering with the retailer, Inventor Smart Care positions its Dental Wand at the centre of a rapidly growing market for preventative pet healthcare.

The company’s next chapter will focus on expanding into Asia, deepening partnerships with welfare organisations, and continuing its R&D pipeline in pet health.

“We’re not just putting another toothbrush on a shelf,” added Victor Carpio. “We’re changing the way people think about oral care for cats — making it simple, stress-free, and something both cats and humans enjoy.”

Inventor Smart Care is a UK-based pet health company focused on feline oral care innovation. Its flagship product, the Dental Wand, blends veterinary dentistry with feline behaviour science to create the first truly cat-friendly toothbrush. Launched in late 2023, with DTC customers across 16 countries and with growing demand from major retailers in the UK and EU.

Fressnapf Holding SE is Europe’s largest pet retail group with a rapidly expanding online marketplace. The Fressnapf Innovation Award honours pioneering products and companies shaping the future of pet care.

Lily’s Kitchen launches its new limited edition offering to bring festive joy to furry family members this Christmas. The range features specially crafted recipes with seasonal ingredients like turkey, cranberry, and sweet potato, packaged in seasonal-themed designs.  

From advent calendars to baked treats, pet parents looking to treat their beloved four-legged family this year need look no further than the B Corp pet food brand.  

And to spread even more joy this holiday season, Lily’s Kitchen is donating £20,000 from the sale of their Christmas recipes to Dogs Trust and London Inner City Kitties (L.I.C.K.)1. 

The full range includes:

Lily’s Kitchen Advent Calendar for Dogs, 68g – RRP £10.50   

There’s nothing quite like the run up to the big day. Sparkly lights illuminating shop displays. The hustle and bustle of passers-by. A visit to a Treat Shop filled with delights to nestle under your tree along with your dog’s delicious treats. What better way to ignite that magical feeling in our furry family than with their own advent calendar filled with festive baked treats?  Inside you’ll find Breaktime Biscuits with peanut butter and banana, and Bedtime Biscuits with a sprinkling of chamomile and passion flower. A daily treat for dogs to countdown to Christmas - talk about tasty! 

Lily’s Kitchen Christmas Advent Calendar for Cats, 25g – RRP £8.50 

Now your cat can enjoy a daily festive treat in the lead up to Christmas. These delectable grain-free* treats are made with turkey for twinkly eyed cats counting down to Christmas. The Festive Treats with Turkey are irresistible bites filled with turkey, served up with a soft centre and a crunchy shell.

Christmas Dinner Turkey with Ham and all the trimmings, 400g – RRP £3.70 

How to make your best bud feel included in the festivities? Simple. Serve them up their very own Christmas dinner.  A brand-new grain-free recipe* complete with all the trimmings (of course)! This limited edition festive supper is crafted with freshly prepared turkey (an excellent and delicious source of protein) with ham and a touch of parsnips (a known source of fibre to help support digestion) and cranberries (containing vitamin C).  

Christmas Feast Turkey with Salmon Paté, 85g – RRP £1.25 

Say hello to a limited edition Christmas dinner just for your cat. This grain-free recipe* is made with natural ingredients and proper meat, offal, and fish, with freshly prepared turkey and salmon. Providing complete and balanced nutrition, you can rest assured knowing that your precious companion is getting everything they need to be their best fluffy self.  

Cracking Meaty Treats Selection Tin, 300g – RRP £18

Rummaging through the Christmas treats tin in search of goodies is an essential part of the festive season for many of us. But what about your little buddy?  Presenting a festive selection keepsake tin just for dogs filled with three meaty treats, each made to a grain-free recipe* with tasty natural ingredients, including proper meat and offal including: 

• Chomp-Away Chicken Bites – a grain-free recipe, with freshly prepared chicken, a sprinkling of quinoa and a dash of ginger 
• Festive Turkey Jerky – with a sprinkling of cranberries and cinnamon 
• Cracking Pork Sausages with Apple – made with a satisfyingly chewy texture

Lily’s Kitchen Festive Turkey Jerky Dog Treats, 70g – RRP £3.50 

The popular Turkey Jerky treats are back with a new look! Let your dog join in the annual festivities with this delicious jerky, made with natural ingredients, including proper meat and offal, for a proper treat. The grain-free recipe* includes a sprinkling of cranberries and cinnamon for that added seasonal taste. Santa, step aside.

Lily’s Kitchen Festive Treats with Turkey for Cats, 60g – RRP £2.50 

Has your cat been naughty or nice this year? Who are we kidding – they’re a rebel through and through. Regardless, they deserve a treat this festive season.  Do irresistible grain-free* bites filled with freshly prepared turkey sound good to you? Made with natural ingredients, we’ve added a touch of sweet potato and cranberries for that additional festive flavour.  

Charlotte Henderson, Head of Marketing at Lily’s Kitchen, comments: “There’s nothing quite like the excitement building in the run up to Christmas, and this year, with the nostalgic design of our Treat Shop-inspired range, we've captured that magic. At Lily’s Kitchen, we know that pets are part of the family, and that involving furry family members in all those special festive moments is so important to pet parents. 

“We’ve crafted these recipes with high-quality, natural ingredients, perfect for treating your mischief makers this holiday season, and our brand new treat selection tins are ideal for getting in the festive spirit with your beloved pets. My cocker spaniel, Polly, has already learned that these tins have got the most delicious goodies inside!” 

The Limited Edition Christmas ranges for both dogs and cats launch in September 2025, via the Lily’s Kitchen website and will also be available for purchase at retailers including Pets at Home, Amazon, Waitrose, Tesco and Sainsbury’s.

A new study has raised alarm among pet owners, revealing that a large amount of lumps and bumps found on dogs are never tested for cancer, despite the disease being one of the leading causes of death in pets.

The survey of more than 240 vets found that while the average vet sees around 13 skin lumps in dogs every week, only 38% are investigated with further diagnostic tests such as fine needle aspirates (FNAs) or biopsies. That means the majority of lumps are left unchecked rather than using invasive tests or newer advanced imaging techniques, with owners often told to wait and see.

Experts warn this could put dogs’ lives at risk. Around 15% of canine skin lumps are malignant, meaning thousands of cancers could go undetected until they are more advanced and harder to treat.

Leading veterinary oncologist Dr Gillian Dank explains: “Every week, countless dogs leave practices with lumps that are never tested. Many will be harmless, but when they’re not, delays can mean lost treatment opportunities and poorer outcomes.”

The study highlights key reasons behind this trend, such as many owners assuming a lump is harmless, concerns around the cost of diagnostics, and not always knowing how important early testing can be for their dog’s health.

Pet owners are urged to regularly check their dogs for new or unusual lumps and to seek veterinary advice immediately if one is found. Newer, quick, simple tests can provide peace of mind without the use of initial invasive testing. This can improve the likelihood of cancer being detected early, when treatment is most effective.

To help pet owners learn more, HT Vista has launched a dedicated pet owner page with information on cancer awareness, how non-invasive screening works, and real case stories.

You can explore it here: https://www.ht-vet.com/pet-owners-page/

Natures Menu has announced the launch of a new range of festive gifts, featuring a selection of its popular Freeze Dried treats and meals.

The perfect collection for pet owners looking to treat their dogs this Christmas, the new range is crafted to bring festive excitement and tail-wagging joy, with each gift packed with irresistible natural flavours and premium ingredients.

The limited edition Natures Menu Christmas Cracker, Christmas Kennel and Christmas Stocking are suitable for adult dogs of all sizes, and are designed to help pet parents to create special moments over the holiday season, from Christmas day meals to under-the-tree gifts and festive rewards.

Natures Menu Christmas Crackers: £3.95 RSP for a pack of four

Each cracker contains 4 x 15g Natures Menu Freeze Dried Meat Bites.

Ensuring four-legged friends don’t miss out on the fun, this special doggie Christmas Cracker box includes four crackers, each filled with four x 15g Freeze Dried Meat Bites packs in Chicken, Turkey, Lamb and Beef flavours for a taste explosion. The ideal stocking filler or festive add-on and a nutritious treat.

Natures Menu Christmas Kennel: £11.95 RSP

Each kennel contains 2 x 120g Natures Menu Complete & Balanced Freeze Dried Meals.

Packed with irresistible Natures Menu Complete & Balanced Freeze Dried Meals for a special dinner that is bursting with natural flavour and nutrition, the Christmas Kennel is the perfect under-the-tree surprise. Each box includes two x 120g Complete & Balanced Freeze Dried Meals in two delicious flavours: Beef and Chicken, perfect for a special Christmas Eve or Christmas Day meal.

Natures Menu Christmas Stocking Mix: £10.45 RSP

Each stocking contains 2 x 15g Natures Menu Freeze Dried Bites, 1 x 40g Natures Menu Freeze Dried Topper and 1 x 120g Natures Menu Freeze Dried Complete & Balanced Meal

A seasonal must-have, the Christmas Stocking is full of delicious treats, toppers and a special meal, and makes the perfect gift for Christmas morning to unwrap alongside family presents. The Freeze Dried Bites in Turkey and Beef flavours provide festive rewards to enjoy throughout the holidays. Turkey flavour Freeze Dried Toppers will add a burst of seasonal flavour and nutrition to any bowl, perfect for mixing with other food types, while the Chicken flavour Freeze Dried Complete & Balanced Meal provides a special dinner with all the goodness dogs need during the festive celebrations.

Veterinary expert at Natures Menu, Melanie Sainsbury said: “Our pets are beloved family members, and at Christmas they deserve to be at the heart of the festivities. Our new range is designed to provide a delicious and joyful way to celebrate our pets, with confidence that we are giving them the very best –Freeze Dried gifts that are nutritious, a feast for the senses, and made with the highest quality ingredients. Each option is ready to gift for maximum convenience while helping to make the holidays extra special.”

Commenting on the opportunity for retailers, Guillermo Munoz, Commercial Director at Natures Menu said: “Christmas is a key trading window for pet retailers who will be seeking to drive incremental sales and maximise impulse purchase in store with visual merchandising and seasonal promotions. We’re delighted to be able to support our bricks and mortar and online retailer partners with a new festive gifting range that delivers the premium natural pet nutrition that Natures Menu is known for in a fun, eye-catching format that customers will love, helping to boost basket spend.”

The Natures Menu Freeze Dried range helps to support digestive wellbeing and a shiny coat. Crafted by experts in Norfolk, Natures Menu uses British suppliers and ethical product sources wherever possible. For more information about the full Freeze Dried portfolio and details of how it is working with retail partners this Christmas, simply visit the Natures Menu trade portal or contact the team via phone: 0800 018 3770, or email: trade@naturesmenu.co.uk.

Podium Pet Products has announced the rebranding of its award-winning balms, shampoo bars, sprays, candles and other wellness and lifestyle grooming products. 

To celebrate its new packaging with updated branding and logo, BeLoved Pet Products is giving away £1,000s worth in free samples with every trade order placed during the month of November 2025 to new and existing clients. To claim this, email sales@podiumpetproducts.com for details.

The new branding showcases the company's commitment to the consumer and sustainability, ensuring straight away a consumer can see exactly what our products do for their furry friends.

New BeLoved Products

BeLoved pet products are known for authenticity, innovation and are entirely inspired by nature. The new range includes:  

• BeLoved – Itch Free Oil: Skin, ear and coat oil to soothe, detangle and heal. Beautifully fragranced as well.
• BeLoved – Tear Stain Balm: highly efficient yet gentle, this balm effectively cures and prevents tear staining in both cats and dogs. It also aids in reducing rear end discolouration.
• BeLoved – Christmas Nose and Paw Balm: Formulated with a natural blend of essential oils and moisturising Vitamin E to soothe minor injuries, like scratches and grazes and alleviate the discomfort from stings and bites. 

“We tried, tested and re-imagined these recipes. Each is hand blended with love and suitable for our furry friends. With our wholistic approach to animal health care and using almost entirely natural ingredients, we continue to create a luxurious, affordable, effective range of wellness and lifestyle care and grooming products for pets and their people,” said Carina Evans, Founder, Podium Pet Products.

Innovation in Natural Pet Health

Podium Pet Products is committed to improving pet wellness through science-backed, natural products, including the award-winning BeLoved range. The company’s global footprint, with strategic locations across four major markets, positions it at the forefront of a rapidly expanding sector driven by consumer demand for sustainable and effective pet care solutions.

Availability

The rebranded BeLoved range is available now through Podium Pet Products and wholesale partners. For more information, visit BeLovedpetz.com or contact sales@podiumpetproducts.com  

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Pets at Home has announced that through its long-standing partnership with the Royal British Legion, it has raised over £1.5 million to help the Armed Forces community, marking a significant milestone in its annual Poppy Appeal campaign.

Since launching the initiative in 2018, the retailer has raised £1,557,646.76 through the sale of exclusive poppy-themed pet accessories, with 100% of profits donated to the Royal British Legion. These funds have helped provide vital support to those in the Armed Forces community, including veterans, serving personnel, and their loved ones.

This year’s campaign features a refreshed range of poppy pet accessories, including bow ties, bandanas, collars, and charms, which have been available in-store and online since late August. The products are designed not only to honour Remembrance but also to allow proud pet owners to show their support in a meaningful way.

Pets at Home Director of Marketing, Madeline Shaw said: “We’re incredibly proud to have reached this £1.5 million milestone, it’s a testament to the generosity of our customers and the dedication of our colleagues. Many members of the Armed Forces community are also pet lovers, and this campaign allows us to support them in a way which we know best.”

Ben France, Head of Corporate Partnerships at the Royal British Legion commented: “We’re incredibly grateful to Pets at Home and their customers for their continued support. From mental and physical recovery programmes, to help with finances, housing, and adapting from military to civilian life, every contribution helps us to be there for serving personnel, veterans, and families, whatever the need, whenever it’s needed.”

A leading canine education provider has announced a partnership with BSAVA PetSavers (the fundraising and grant awarding arm of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association), uniting dog training science and veterinary expertise to support animal welfare and professional development across the UK.

Canine Principles, an approved AIM Qualifications centre delivering nationally recognised dog training and behaviour courses, will now offer BSAVA members 15% off its entire course library.

In addition, BSAVA PetSavers, who fund vital clinical research into small animal health, will receive a 15% donation from every purchase made through the partnership.

The collaboration also includes a free webinar series for BSAVA members, hosted by Jo Middleton, owner of Canine Principles.

The first session, last week, provided an introduction to the partnership and explored the foundations of cooperative handling,  an approach rooted in trust, consent and positive reinforcement.

Jo said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be partnering with BSAVA PetSavers. Together, we can help strengthen the bond between vets, trainers and guardians through evidence-based education. Our shared mission is to ensure that dogs receive the kindest, most ethical care possible, and this partnership is a brilliant step forward in making that vision a reality.”

Alison Selby from BSAVA PetSavers added: “We are committed to improving the health and welfare of small animals through education and collaboration. Partnering with Canine Principles, whose courses are rooted in science and compassion, reflects our dedication to supporting our members with trusted, progressive learning opportunities.”

Canine Principles’ courses are written by qualified professionals and grounded in modern canine science, focusing exclusively on reward-based, positive reinforcement methods. All certificate holders are automatically eligible to join the International Institute for Canine Ethics, an ABTC member organisation, as CPD Members.
 
Course content provided by Canine Principles is entirely independent of BSAVA’s educational provision, and BSAVA has no control or input over any aspect of their resources or content.            

For more information and to access the BSAVA member discount, visit  https://www.canineprinciples.com/link/VmZ5jr

Independent retailers are being urged to ensure they are clued up on IT security to minimise the risk of cyber crime, a new podcast from Bira has explored.

The latest episode of 'High Street Matters', titled 'No Business Too Small - Protecting Independent Retailers from Cyber Crime', tackles the misconception that small businesses are not targets for cyber attacks.

Hosted by Jeff Moody, Chief Operating Officer of Bira, the episode brings together expert insights from Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, Melissa Minkow, Director of Retail Strategy at CI&T and retail futurist, and Andrew Maben from Kevin's Schoolwear in London, who experienced a cyber attack firsthand.

Mr Goodacre said: "There is a groundswell of perception within small business owners that the kind of hacking and disruption that the likes of Marks & Spencer have experienced recently is really just a thing that happens to big companies and not small ones. It's a kind of head in the sand approach, not wanting to really face up to that harsh reality that they may be liable."

The podcast reveals alarming statistics, with research showing that 61% of small and medium businesses were the target of a cyber attack in 2021. Ms Minkow explained: "Small businesses are oftentimes making the assumption that they wouldn't be the target because they're collecting less data. But this is an issue that every retailer, unfortunately, is facing regardless of size."

Mr Maben shared his experience of Kevin's Schoolwear being hit by a DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attack a couple of years ago. The attack left the business's website displaying in Chinese and out of action for two weeks during a crucial trading period.

"I suppose in hindsight, we were taking this for granted a little bit," Mr Maben admitted. "We're too small for cyber hackers - I didn't think little old Kevin's Schoolwear would provide that kudos for them. But we now understand that we are vulnerable to much less sophisticated attacks, and small businesses are actually, in proportion, more vulnerable to these sorts of attacks."

The episode provides practical advice for independent retailers, including:

• Implementing strong passwords and multi-factor authentication
• Regular system updates
• Staff training on recognising phishing attempts
• Creating a crisis management document on paper
• Seeking advice from IT specialists
• Considering Cyber Essentials certification

Mr Goodacre emphasised the importance of preparation: "We need to get our members to think about the impact of a cyber attack. What would you do if you lost access to your website? How would you deal with it? That plan of action, committing those steps down, is becoming increasingly important."

Ms Minkow added: "It does seem like a really costly investment, but it is going to be far more expensive if down the line you're reacting to it rather than preparing for it in advance. Any strong data strategy should incorporate a cyber security plan."

The podcast is available now by searching for 'High Street Matters Bira' online. More resources and support for independent retailers can be found at bira.co.uk.

Researchers at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) have revealed the frequency and risk factors for canine haemangiosarcoma – a fast-growing and often fatal cancer in dogs. 

The findings of this study support a better understanding of the risk factors for canine cancers, especially in relation to dog breeds, and will help veterinarians and owners determine the best course of care.

Haemangiosarcoma is a rapidly developing cancer of the blood vessels that most often affects older dogs. Due to often advanced stage diagnoses, the disease carries extremely poor survival rates, with many owners and first-opinion vets faced with the heartbreaking decision to consider euthanasia.

As the first study of canine haemangiosarcoma to assess cases sourced only from dogs under primary care practice in the UK, the RVC’s VetCompass team used data from more than one million dogs to analyse the electronic health records of dogs aged at least five years, which were under primary veterinary care during 2019.  This involved reviewing these records and assessing the frequency and risk factors for diagnosis of haemangiosarcoma, including breed, age, bodyweight, sex/neuter status, socioeconomic status and whether they were in an urban or rural location.

Collaborating with colleagues from the Morris Animal Foundation’s Golden Retriever Lifetime Study, the RVC’s cancer epidemiology team comprised Professor David Brodbelt, Professor of Evidence-based Veterinary Medicine; Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology; Dr College Taylor, Cancer Epidemiologist; Dr Georgie Barry, Canine Epidemiologist; and Dr Sandra Guillen, Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Oncology. Working together, the researchers found that the risk of haemangiosarcoma is strongly influenced by breed, with the breeds with the highest odds being the Dogue de Bordeaux (9.5x); Flat Coated Retriever (8.3x); German Shepherd (6.3x); and Hungarian Vizsla (5.5x).

Additionally, age and bodyweight are important risk factors, with dogs aged between 11 to 13 years more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with the disease, and dogs weighing more than 37.5kg more than four times at risk than those weighing between 7.5kg and 15kg.

Other key findings include that:

• The average age of dogs at least 5 years old at first diagnosis of haemangiosarcoma was 10.5 years.
• The average bodyweight of dogs diagnosed with haemangiosarcoma was 26.4kg.
• Neutered females and neutered males were at a slightly increased risk of haemangiosarcoma diagnosis compared to entire females; however, the reason why is not clear.
• Dogs attending clinics in the least deprived areas of the UK had 1.7x the odds of haemangiosarcoma diagnosis compared to those attending clinics in the most deprived areas. This is likely associated with access to veterinary care in order for dogs to be diagnosed.
• Dogs from clinics in mixed urban/rural areas had slightly lower odds of clinical haemangiosarcoma diagnosis (0.7x the odds) compared to those from urban clinics; however, the reason why is unclear.

Dr Sandra Guillen, Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Oncology at the RVC, and author of the paper, said:“This study highlights important patterns in the diagnosis of haemangiosarcoma in dogs across the UK and the findings not only shed light on the epidemiology of this aggressive cancer but also raise important questions about how demographic, geographic, and socioeconomic factors shape canine health outcomes.”

Dr Georgie Barry, Canine Epidemiologist at the RVC, and lead author of the paper, said:“Haemangiosarcoma can be a challenging cancer to confidently diagnose in first opinion practice when timing is of the essence. Dogs often present very unwell and it can be an incredibly emotional and distressing time for owners to make big decisions over their dog’s care. We hope these findings will support first opinion vets in guiding diagnoses to support owners and provide the most appropriate care for their canine patients in a timely manner.”

This study was funded by the Morris Animal Foundation.

Agria Pet Insurance has announced a new initiative with the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA), a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting dogs and horses once their careers in public service come to an end. 

Formed and founded in 2022 and chaired by The Rt. Hon. The Countess Bathurst (known to all as Lady B), NFRSA helps cover veterinary and medical costs for animals retired from the police, fire service, prison service, National Crime Agency, NHS, RAF Police Military Working Dogs and Border Force.  

Due to the rapid growth of retiring service dogs, in as little as three years, NFRSA membership has reached more than 500 retired service animals and requests for support are growing on a weekly basis. This year alone, the charity has gifted 130 grants for assistance with veterinary bills. 

As part of this evolving new relationship, Agria will work with NFRSA to provide an affordable and comprehensive insurance solution for these special service animals in retirement. By doing so, they can receive the veterinary care they need, without causing financial concerns to their owners, and enabling NFRSA to achieve their mission to ‘Protect Our Protectors’. 

“We are absolutely delighted and extremely grateful to be working with Agria Pet Insurance – a company whose values so closely reflect our own,” said The Countess Bathurst, Founder & Chair of NFRSA. “Their heartfelt support for the NFRSA is not only deeply appreciated, but a powerful recognition of the commitment and sacrifices made by our service animals during their careers. Together, we are working to ensure these brave dogs and horses receive the care they so richly deserve once their working lives come to an end.” 

Vicki Wentworth, Managing Director at Agria Pet Insurance, added: “We’re incredibly proud to stand alongside the NFRSA in recognising the lifelong service of these remarkable animals. This relationship reflects our deep belief that their care shouldn’t stop when their duty ends. They have risked their lives to protect us, it’s now our turn to support them.” 

Founded in Sweden in 1890 and launched in the UK in 2009, Agria Pet Insurance is known for its long-standing commitment to animal welfare. The company insures dogs, cats, horses, and rabbits, and is recognised for closely working with vets, breeders, and charities across the UK and beyond. 

For more information about the NFRSA, visit: nfrsa.org.uk 

To learn more about Agria Pet Insurance, visit: agriapet.co.uk 

Nordic company Snellman Petfood continues to grow internationally with the acquisition of premium raw pet food manufacturer Benyfit Natural. This acquisition marks its first purchase in the UK and a significant step in their growth strategy.

Magnus Pettersson, Director at Snellman Petfood Business Unit, commented:  “We’ve seen significant growth of the raw pet food market in Europe, growing exponentially faster than the wider pet category, and we’ve had plans to expand operations for some time. Benyfit Natural is the perfect addition to us, aligning to our existing portfolio on both product and family business values.” 

Benyfit Natural specialises in the production of premium raw dog food, aligning on both category and product range with Snellman Petfood. Developed and manufactured from their East Sussex factory in the Southeast of England, products are distributed via independent retailers, pet specialist retailers and direct to consumers via their ecommerce store. 

“We could not be more pleased to be joining the Snellman Petfood family. We understand the UK market, having operated in the raw category for over a decade and hope to support them in this expansion. It is a hugely exciting time for pet food in the UK, specifically in the raw food category and we cannot wait to see what comes next for Benyfit Natural with the support of Snellman Petfood,” said Greg Van Praagh from Benyfit Natural. 

The acquisition gives Snellman Petfood a strategic foothold in a new market where the dog category specifically has seen 5% year-on-year market value growth. The UK market primarily operates within independent and pet specialist retailers, however growth in category has led to the introduction of frozen pet food across leading grocers, further establishing opportunities for growth. 

“Our customers are increasingly demanding sustainably sourced and produced products, with high meat content paired with low processing levels. In the UK, raw dog food accounts for 12.9% share of the total pet food market, showing it is far more mature than the Nordics. The dog pet food market specifically has grown 5% since 2024 and we continue to see rapid growth,” added Magnus Pettersson.

Upon completion of the acquisition, Benyfit Natural will continue to operate under its own name, and its 20 employees will join the Snellman Petfood business. Benyfit Natural was originally founded in 2014 by Ben Van Praagh, who developed nutritious raw recipes for his own working dogs, initially from his home kitchen. His son, Greg Van Praagh currently serves as the company's Operation Lead in the UK take on the role of Managing Director after the acquisition. Real Pet Food Company of Australia (RPFC), whose brand Billy + Margot acquired Benyfit Natural in 2018, is the vendor in the acquisition.

Financial terms and transaction price are undisclosed.

Pictured (from left to right): Magnus Pettersson (Director at Snellman Petfood), Greg Van Praagh (Managing Director at Benyfit Natural), Joseph Dalo (Chief Operating Officer at Real Pet Food Company of Australia).

Pet Trade Innovations has announced the rebranding of its award winning dog chew toys, Bamboodles, alongside the launch of new dog chew lines designed to meet the evolving needs of pets and their owners.

A fresh look for a trusted favourite

Bamboodles, known for its uniquely shaped, tough bamboo and nylon dog chews, now features updated packaging and a refreshed logo. 

The new branding highlights Bamboodles’ commitment to sustainability, durability, and fun—making it even more eye-catching on shelves.

New Bamboodles product lines

Building on its reputation for quality and innovation, Bamboodles is expanding its range with:

• OUT NOW Bamboodles Dental Chews: Specially textured to help reduce plaque and tartar - with a salivating lamb scent
• OUT NOW Bamboodles Cheese T-Bone: Another triumphant scented T-bone to sit along side the original Beef, Chicken and Peanut Butter 
• Bamboodles Puppy Range: Softer materials safety designed for younger dogs, two flavours available in January 2026

All new products are crafted with the same dedication to safety and quality that has made Bamboodles a favourite among pet owners and retailers across the UK and Europe.

“Since launching Bamboodles in 2018, we’ve been delighted to see the Bamboodles brand go from strength to strength," said Steve Driver, Managing Director.  “We now felt it was the perfect time to overhaul the packaging, with something really cool and different. We’re also excited to announce that Bamboodles is the very first brand launching under our new OODLES umbrella—so watch this space for more fun, creative products coming soon!”

Availability

The rebranded Bamboodles products and new lines are available now through Pet Trade Innovations Ltd and our leading wholesale partners. For more information, visit pettradeinnovations.com or contact info@pettradeinnovations.com.

Award-winning Redpaw Pet Supplies has picked up another honour  – this time Pet Store of the Year 2025/26 in the South West England Prestige Awards.

“This recognition means a lot to us as an independent retailer,” said owner Sammie Hunt. 

“Our focus has always been on providing exceptional customer service, building real community connections, and supporting pet owners with trusted, science-led nutrition and honest advice. We believe that genuine care and engagement are what keep independents like us strong and relevant in today’s market.

“We’ve also built some wonderful partnerships within the pet industry with suppliers, manufacturers, and other independents who share our values and it’s these collaborations that help us keep delivering the very best for our customers.

“It’s been a brilliant year for Redpaw, and this award reinforces our commitment to combining expert care, community spirit, and a true passion for pets.”

Redpaw is based in Plympton, Devon.

INSPIRED (Inspired Pet Nutrition) has opened its new head office and state-of-the-art distribution centre in Thirsk, Yorkshire – seen as a landmark £6 million investment in people, infrastructure and long-term growth.

The new office, designed around collaboration and wellbeing, provides a modern, inclusive space where people, pets, and performance thrive together. From flexible team zones and hybrid-ready technology to dedicated spaces that even welcome four-legged colleagues, every detail reflects the company’s culture of innovation, connection, and care.

Meanwhile, the new distribution centre – one of the largest of its kind in the UK – represents a major step forward in NSPIRED’s operational journey. It strengthens the supply chain resilience and capacity, ensuring the company can continue meeting growing demand across the UK and Europe.

Over the past five years, INSPIRED has evolved from a UK leader into one of Europe’s largest independent branded pet food companies. This investment marks another exciting chapter in the story – and reinforces Inspired’s’s ongoing commitment to creating happiness for pets, people, and communities everywhere.

The company has also changed its brand name from Inspired Pet Nutrition to INSPIRED.

Just days after opening a new store in Chesterfield, Britain’s award-winning pet discount superstore Jollyes is preparing to open a further six new stores in just six weeks, after it secured an agreement to move into five Poundland stores that are scheduled for closure. 

Jollyes was already planning to open another two new stores before Christmas bringing its unique combination of low prices and pet expertise to new communities. 

After opening the doors at its newest location in Chesterfield this month, dates have now been confirmed for new stores in Swansea (15 November) and Southend (22 November). 

But the fast-growing retailer also now plans to open a further four stores before the end of the year, in Thurrock (28 November), Colne (29 November), Carlisle (6 December) and Burnley (13 December), converting these former Poundland units rapidly into new Jollyes superstores. 

It has also agreed to take on an additional former Poundland location in Blackpool which will open as Jollyes in early 2026. 

With four of the former Poundland units in the North West, the openings will underscore Jollyes’ growing strength in the region, following recent launches in Blackburn, Chester, Leyland, Southport, Warrington and Widnes.   

All the six stores opening before Christmas will open with the full Jollyes range which includes a promise to be the lowest-price pet retailer in town, following successive moves to lower the price of two-thirds of its ranges over 2025 and significant reductions on big brand favourites. 

The new stores will offer frozen food that’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for pet owners, the retailer’s very latest expanded range for cat owners, and a community pet clinic with a vaccination and microchip service from trained Royal College Vets. 

Each location will also carry its new extensive ‘pick and mix’ Natural Treats range which include sausages, lamb braid pigs’ ears and pork rolls. 

The stores will be set-up from day one to offer ‘Zoomies’ – Jollyes’ new partnership with Uber Eats which allows customers within a five-mile radius of each store to have pet food, frozen raw food and toys and accessories delivered in as little as 30 minutes via the Uber Eats app. 

Jollyes today also confirmed it would offer any former Poundland colleagues in the stores it’s taking over, a guaranteed interview for roles when their shop re-opens as a Jollyes. 

In the last 12 months Jollyes has invested in new family-friendly employment schemes as it seeks to become a best-in-class retail employer to help it attract the best talent. 

Those new benefits include enhanced paid maternity leave of six months, up from six weeks, and the doubling of paid paternity to four weeks, up from two weeks. 

And earlier this year colleagues could take advantage of fertility leave for two days of each IVF cycle, alongside neonatal leave and baby loss leave.  

Jollyes has also teamed up with a number of organisations to help broaden the range of people who have the chance to build a career at the retailer.   

That includes over-50’s recruitment platform Rest Less, Fair Chance Business Alliance, which specialises in securing roles for people with criminal records and has joined the Armed Forces Covenant that will guarantee any ex-servicemen and women an interview on applying for a role. 

Jollyes’ chief operating officer and CEO designate Adam Dury said: “We’re excited to have the opportunity to bring our combination of low prices and pet expertise to so many new places before the end of the year. 

“For too long pet parents across the UK have had little choice – high prices at a specialist or the limited range of a general retailer. 

“The secret to our rapid growth is the serious commitment to value in a store where customers can get all they need to care for their family pet alongside advice from our knowledgeable and highly trained colleagues in store.”

Over the past three years Jollyes has almost doubled the number of store locations across the UK, becoming a clear challenger brand in the UK pet retail market. 

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

Jollyes' confirmed opening schedule: