The Pet Industry Federation has opened ticket sales for its Business of Pets Conference, alongside the release of a packed two-day programme focused on ‘Building Resilience’.
Sponsored by Worldpay and taking place from Thursday 3 – Friday 4 June 2026 at the Cranfield University Management Development Centre, the event will bring together pet businesses from across the UK to address the financial, operational and strategic challenges shaping the sector.
The conference opens with a headline panel, entitled ‘The 2026 Cost Crunch and How to Survive It’, featuring Joanna Boughton-White (Dorwest), Jo Moorcroft and Vicky Davies (Canine Business Academy) and Darron Burness (Beacon Barkers), hosted by Clayton Payne.
Cash flow and financial resilience are explored by Emma Jones, the UK Small Business Commissioner, who will outline how new 2026 late payment regulations, including a 60-day cap, can be used to strengthen business stability.
Returning speaker Martin Spiller (Palladin Partners) will deliver a session entitled: ‘The Unfair Advantage of SMEs’ focusing on how smaller businesses can outperform larger competitors through agility, culture and data.
Scaling challenges are addressed by Emma Barnes (Focal Point Coaching), sharing practical insights from growing Linnaeus Group from eight to over 150 practices, with a focus on systems, leadership and building high-performing teams.
If that wasn’t enough, day two features a State of the Nation report on UK pet spend from NielsenIQ, alongside a forward-looking consumer outlook from PwC, helping businesses understand where demand is heading in 2026.
Digital strategy is brought to life through a Pooch & Mutt case study, delivered by Nobull, breaking down the marketing tactics behind one of the sector’s fastest-growing brands.
A session on Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO) will also explore how businesses can remain visible as consumers increasingly turn to AI tools such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini for recommendations, complemented by a session on cyber security from the National Cyber Resilience Centre Group, highlighting the growing risks facing SMEs.
As in previous years, the programme includes live Innovation Award pitches across both days, showcasing new products, services and technologies.
Alongside the main programme, delegates will benefit from networking opportunities, including an evening BBQ and access to the Worldpay Experience Zone.
With two full days dedicated to helping pet businesses adapt and grow, tickets are now on sale, with further speakers to be announced.
The event is aimed at all pet businesses looking to thrive despite current trading challenges and ticket discounts are, of course, available to PIF members.
To view the full programme and to book tickets, visit: https://petfederation.co.uk/the-business-of-pets-conference/programme-2026/
