Recruitment specialist Lynda Ward, owner of Pet Trade Solutions, is celebrating 35 years in an industry that she describes as being 'topsy-turvy'.

“In the early 1980s the UK’s traditional supply chain could be best described as a pyramid shape," said Lynda. 

"There was a relatively small number of manufacturers or their agents at the top supplying a large number of medium and small sized wholesalers in the middle, who in turn supplied a very large number of small independent retailers and a few small chains at the base of the pyramid.

"Gradually, but with increased impetus over the last 15 years, the pyramid has turned upside down. Now, there is a much smaller number of independent retailers plus large chains at the peak, supplied in part by fewer but bigger wholesalers, and in part and increasingly direct, by a wide base of manufacturers or their agents.

"Added to this, probably the biggest change has been the rapid growth in online retailing direct to the public which has completely skewed the picture and been a major challenge to manufacturers, suppliers and retailers alike – everyone trying to take advantage of the opportunities whilst keeping all their customers happy.”

Lynda attended PATS Telford and met up with people from the whole spectrum of the industry who were around at the beginning of her career.

"There were many comments at PATS about how things have changed over the years," added Lynda. "Is it for the better or for worse? Opinions are varied but we are all happy and grateful to still be enjoying the trade and to have made so many genuine friends and acquaintances along the way.”

Lynda is always happy to personally advise on aspects of recruitment and marketing strategy and can be contacted on 07946 743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com