The UK pet industry was shocked by a national newspaper report that revealed the organiser of London Pet Show Live had vanished and left £200,000 in unpaid bills.

The Daily Mail claimed that the man behind the show – Oscar Von Keysall of Elite Events – had 'disappeared and ceased all communication'. The newspaper reported that insolvency practitioners had been appointed to begin the process of liquidation.

Elite Events had promised that 20,000 visitors would attend the two-day event on September 20-21 but the Daily Mail was told the reality was closer to 2,000.

The UK pet industry has been reacting to the news this week with many posts on social media expressing shock at the developments.

Louise Toal, owner of Furr Boost, said she was fortunate not to have been involved in the show but was horrified at the way some ‘brilliant pet brands’ had been treated.

“It’s a tough lesson for many in the pet industry,” Louise posted on Linkedin, along with a short show reel, which summed up what had happened.

Louise told Pet Trade Xtra: “Whilst we didn’t attend this show we are saddened to learn of this type of behaviour and feel for all those who have been affected.”

Lahat Creative was hired to manage the event operations and logistics for London Pet Show Live 2025, and its owner Jay Jones has been left devasted by what has happened.

Jay said: “We poured everything into it – long days, endless calls and sleepless nights. My team worked relentlessly to build a show that would celebrate the UK’s love for animals, coordinating suppliers, schedules, and people to make something truly special.

“And we did our job. We delivered. But what came next was devastating. The event’s founder, who controlled the finances, disappeared after the show – no responses, no payments, and no accountability.

“Hundreds of exhibitors, suppliers, and staff, including myself and my team, were left completely unpaid.”

Jay admitted it had been one of the hardest experiences of his career. “It’s cost me, pushed me to my limits, and tested my belief in people. But I refused to disappear like he did.

“Since then, I have worked with the police. I’ve supported those affected. I’ve communicated with transparency because integrity is all we have left when things fall apart. And that’s what defines us.”

Jay is keen to put the experience behind him, and star helping other businesses of all sizes to grow, engage, and perform.

“If you’re looking for a partner who shows up, stands tall, and always delivers, even when it’s hard, let’s talk,” added Jay, who can be contacted by emailing chat@lahatcreative.com

Award-winning pet retailer Jollyes opened its latest superstore on Saturday (18 October) as it welcomed hundreds of customers and their pets on opening day. 

The new store in Chesterfield – the 112th in the Jollyes' portfolio – was opened by Elvis (Lewis Hill), NFRSA retired police dog Bozie Petula known as ‘Bo’ and handler Rachael Pell.

Performing the red ribbon cutting was Elvis, who entertained customers with songs Blue Suede Shoes, Are You Lonesome Tonight and of course the classic ‘Hound Dog’.

Alongside Elvis was NFRSA retired service dog police dog Bozie Petula who gets called Bo who bit through a string of sausages alongside her handler PC Rachael Pell to declare the store open.

Bo, aged eight, is a Springer Spaniel cross who spent four years as a specialist search dog for the police, expertly detecting drugs, cash, and firearms.

The NFRSA helps support the care, well-being, and welfare of retired service animals from across the emergency service family - the police, fire, border force, National Crime Agency, NHS and prison services.

This year all Jollyes’ stores are raising money for NFRSA with collections matched by Jollyes up to £20,000 that will help the charity support retired service animals and their owners.

Saturday was also National Chocolate Cupcake Day so to celebrate customers received a free cupcake, and pet friendly versions were also up for grabs.

Welcoming customers to the new opening was entertainer Tom Campbell, introducing Elvis and playing pet theme game shows, with every customer given the chance to spin Jollyes’ iconic ‘Wheel of Fur-tune’ to win prizes.

Store manager Alan Burgar said: “We’re delighted to finally open the doors and welcome customers to our new store in Chesterfield. My whole team here 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.”

The Hurtta Autumn/Winter 2025 Collection has arrived at Pedigree Wholesale, featuring upgraded lines and exciting new additions. Continuing Hurtta’s commitment to sustainability, every product in this range is crafted from recycled materials, helping reduce the brand's environmental footprint whilst staying mindful of and taking responsibility for its products' impact on the environment.

New and improved, the Hurtta Expedition Parka II ECO features improved weather resistance and a refined colour palette with subtle shades. Thoughtfully placed pleats in the front offer more freedom of movement, and the back stitching is hidden inside the jacket. Plus, the leash opening has been reshaped to enhance weather resistance.

The Rover Harness is a new addition for Hurtta. It gives even large dogs the freedom to move naturally, with plenty of space for their front legs to stretch and stride without restriction. No more sliding or discomfort typical of larger dog harnesses - just a secure, perfect fit. The metal adjusters on the front padding and adjustable straps have been carefully crafted to stay away from the dog’s skin for comfort and freedom of movement. Meanwhile, the extended back padding stops the leash lock from bumping the dog while the loop stays in place.

Two new leashes join the collection this season. The Multilong II Leash is a soft, lightweight, and durable multi-functional leash designed for a wide range of outdoor activities and adventures. Its adjustable length is easily customised with the movable metal loop, meaning it’s the perfect fit for any situation. The Weekend Warrior Leash is the perfect choice for everyday life and epic adventures alike, making it ideal for all, including puppies and younger dogs.

Hurtta are from Finland, "The wild North," a place known for its nature and unrelenting winters. Originally, they were clothing industry professionals determined to make functional products for their own dogs while also developing a range of functional dog gear globally.

Hurtta is available exclusively through Pedigree Wholesale to the specialist pet trade. Visit https://petproducts.co.uk/hurtta/ or speak to your local Pedigree Wholesale Representative for more information.

The Science Selective Care Supplements range of functional treats from Supreme Petfoods have been awarded the Animalis Innovation & Design Award in the rodent category at the industry-leading Animal Expo – Animalis Show in Paris.

Presented annually by Animalis, one of France’s leading pet retail chains, the award celebrates products that demonstrate outstanding innovation, design and a commitment to animal welfare. Judged by a panel of pet industry experts and influencers, it covers categories including dogs, cats, rodents, birds, aquatics and reptiles.

The Science Selective Care Supplements range impressed the judges with its science-led, functional approach to small pet health. The range includes seven targeted products - Science Selective Digestive Care, Urinary Care, Skin & Coat Care, Vitamin C Care, Early Years Care, Calm & Relax Care and Joint & Mobility Care – each developed to support a specific aspect of health and wellbeing in rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas.

Using a combination of traditional botanicals and advanced nutritional expertise, each supplement includes ingredients that deliver clear functional benefits - such as chamomile and peppermint for digestion, cranberry and dandelion for urinary health, and linseed and spinach for skin and coat condition. All products are free from added sugar and highly palatable, making them easy to feed as part of a balanced diet.

Claire Hamblion, Marketing Director at Supreme Petfoods, expressed her delight, saying: “We’re truly honoured that our Science Selective Care Supplements have been recognised by Animalis. Small pets are increasingly seen as part of the family, and owners want to take the same proactive approach to their care as they do with dogs and cats. Our functional treats make that easy - they offer specific health support in a format pets love, with all the nutritional integrity retailers expect from the Science Selective brand.”

The Animal Expo – Animalis Show is France’s flagship event for pets and responsible pet ownership, attracting leading brands, retailers and consumers from across Europe. The Animalis Innovation & Design award recognises suppliers whose products demonstrate genuine progress in animal care and wellbeing.

Following the award, Animalis has confirmed that the full Science Selective Care Supplements range will now be listed across all Animalis stores in France, expanding availability to pet owners and strengthening Supreme’s long-standing partnership with the retailer.

For more information on Science Selective Care Supplements and the rest of the Science Selective range, visit www.supremepetfoods.com or email experts@supremepetfoods.com

For many pet owners, the unconditional love and companionship of their furry friends extends beyond the living room and garden, often right into the bedroom. But how does co-sleeping with pets affect our daily lives? And is this really what’s best for them?

Petplan surveyed 1,000 UK cat and dog owners to explore the nation's pet co-sleeping habits. Drawing on these results, alongside expert insights from a sleep specialist and Petplan's own Behaviourist Expert, the study revealed how sharing a bed with pets impacts more than just our sleep.

What are the benefits of co-sleeping with our pets?

87% of pet owners surveyed reported a positive experience when co-sleeping with their pet. In fact, 1 in 9 cat owners – and 1 in 7 dog owners – went as far as to say their sleep was negatively impacted when not sharing the bed with their pet.

When looking deeper into these results, the predominant emotion pet owners reported when co-sleeping with their dog or cat was ‘comfort’ (53%). This was closely followed by ‘feelings of calm’ (48%), whilst ‘emotional security’ and ‘positive mental health’ tied in third position (40%).

Petplan veterinary expert Dr Brian Faulkner, said: “Although a cat's purr is not directly linked to a specific heart rate, its sound has a calming effect that can lower a human's heart rate and blood pressure. When a cat purrs, it can trigger the release of oxytocin – the feel good hormone - in humans, helping boost happiness and reduce stress. This, in turn, can lead to a decrease in cortisol (the stress hormone) and ultimately lower blood pressure and heart rate.”

Is co-sleeping good for your pet? 

Despite this positive feedback from the UK’s pet owners, it’s important to consider the impact that co-sleeping may have on our pets.

Nick Jones, MA Behaviourist Expert at Petplan commented: “For many well-adjusted dogs, co-sleeping works well, but it’s worth being mindful of potential downsides, such as ‘over-bonding’. This can sometimes contribute to over-reliance or separation anxiety if your dog struggles when left alone. The key is striking a sensible balance that allows closeness while still encouraging independence.

“You should also create a designated spot in your home where your dog can retreat to without being disturbed. This will act as their safe space. Choose a corner in your home that doesn’t receive too much foot traffic, or an area where you can unwind with your dog in the evenings whilst maintaining a comfortable space between you both.”

How does co-sleeping with pets affect our everyday lives?

88% of cat owners and 85% of dog owners admitted they’ve been woken up at night by their pets. And once they’re awake, a quarter of these pet owners shared that it takes them over 20-minutes to fall back to sleep.

Dr Nerina Ramlakhan, Physiologist and Sleep Expert highlights why it’s important to get a good night’s rest: “Your sleep latency is a good measure of whether you are well rested and getting good quality sleep. For most healthy individuals, the time it takes to fall asleep is typically between 10 and 20 minutes.”

Signs you’re not getting a good night’s sleep include:

• Difficulty waking up or falling asleep
• Not feeling well-rested when you wake up
• Feeling tired, sleepy, or drowsy during the day
• Reduced performance or trouble focusing at school, work, or sports
• Excessive reliance on caffeine

Dr Nerina added: “Nighttime disruption can be an issue so it’s a good idea to walk the dog in the evening to minimise this factor. If the pet owner tends to overheat at night, again I suggest keeping the pet in a separate bed or basket rather than having them in the bed.”

Pets aren’t the only reason we’re waking up at night

There are several factors keeping us awake at night. Petplan’s survey revealed that excessive room temperatures is the leading cause of disturbed sleep (44%), followed by stress and anxiety (35%). However, several pet-related disturbances also made the list, with ‘pet moving’ taking a notable spot in third position (32%).

While some disturbances are minor, unexpected pet health issues or behavioural changes can also disrupt sleep, cause worry and financial stress. Having the right pet insurance in place to cover the cost of vet bills and help you get your pet the best care can provide peace of mind.

PitPat, the UK’s leading dog GPS and activity tracker brand, has announced its sponsorship of runner Megan Boxall as she attempts to become the fastest woman to run the entire coast of mainland Britain – 200 marathons in 200 days.

The 5,240-mile challenge, which began on 18 October 2025 at Sizewell Beach in Suffolk, will see Megan running the equivalent of a marathon every day for nearly seven months.

Along the way, she’ll be joined for parts of the route by her Border Collie, Shadow, a rescue from Dogs Trust, who’ll be wearing her PitPat GPS tracker to monitor her activity and ensure her safety.

The partnership highlights PitPat’s commitment to making dogs happier, healthier and safer, recognising the importance of active lifestyles shared between owners and their dogs and showcasing the strength of the human-animal bond.

“Megan’s determination, courage and partnership with Shadow perfectly capture what PitPat stands for — enjoying every adventure with your dog and keeping them safe while you do it,” said Andrew Nowell, CEO of PitPat. “We’re thrilled to support Megan and Shadow on this incredible journey and proud that our technology will play a role in keeping Shadow visible and protected throughout.”

Megan is undertaking the challenge to raise money for Samaritans, whose support helped her during a difficult time with her mental health last year.

 She was also diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2024, but remains determined to push through the physical and mental challenges of the run.

Supporters can follow Megan and Shadow’s journey and donate to their fundraising campaign for Samaritans via JustGiving.

Jollyes Pets will close all of its 100-plus stores on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day as a thank you to colleagues for their hard work.

The decision reinforces Jollyes’ commitment to supporting its colleagues and recognising their hard work and commitment throughout the year, giving them valuable time to relax and enjoy the festive season with family, friends, and their pets.

Jollyes is choosing to give its teams a well-earned rest after another busy year serving pet parents across the UK.

Jollyes also confirmed it would give its colleagues a helping hand by amending December 2025 and January 2026 pay dates.

It will bring forward its December payroll to December 19 and pay January 2026 salaries a week earlier than usual to help colleagues better manage their finances over the holidays.

Adam Dury, chief operating officer at Jollyes, said: “It’s the special combination of prices and service from our talented and knowledgeable colleagues that makes shopping at Jollyes special for pet lovers.

“And that’s why we’re delighted to be able to recognise their hard work during 2025 by giving them the festive break they deserve — and a chance to spend quality time with their families – including their own pets.”

As you might expect for a pet retailer, over 95 per cent of Jollyes colleagues have a family pet and understand the importance of spending time with their own four-legged family members.

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.

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PetQuip has produced a special digital magazine showcasing all the winners of the PetQuip Awards 2025 and gauging their reaction to picking up such a prestigious honour.

Click on the link below to view the digital magazine...

https://isu.pub/1xiWZm6

As the nights draw in and the season of spooky fun begins, it’s important to remember that Halloween and bonfire night can be a little frightening for our furry friends.

To help pet owners prepare, Jollyes has launched a pet safety guide to help keep pets calm, comfortable, and safe during the festivities.

From keeping your pets away from toxic treats and plants to creating safe zones and checking decorations are don’t cause a hazard, this is the guide to ensure you’re ready.

Jollyes Pets Safety Guide

1.Toxic Products 

• Chocolate and sugar-free treats can be toxic, store all goodies out of reach. After bonfire night check the garden so there are no leftover fireworks which can be toxic if eaten.

2. Decorate Safely

• Use battery candles, not real flame candles
• Hide wires and electrical cords
• Avoid small decorations pets could swallow

3. Costume Comfort

• Ensure costumes aren’t tight and pets can move freely
• Avoid small parts on costumes
• Don’t force them to wear dress-up if they appear stressed

   

4. Trick-or-Treat Quiet Zone 

• Give pets a cosy and calm space with food, water, and comfy bedding away from the front door.

5. ID Ready

• Pets can get scared easily so make sure microchips and collars are up to date.

6. Watch Plants

• Pumpkins and fake foliage can cause upset tummies, so ensure they’re kept out of reach.

7. Keep Outdoor Pets Safe

• Busy streets and crowds can be scary so keep pets indoors. Ensure doors and gates are closed so they don’t attempt to run away.

8. Treats

• Offer pet-friendly Halloween snacks so they can join in the fun safely.

9. Close Windows and Curtains

• This helps reduce noise and flashing lights that can spook pets.

10. Calming Aids

• Vet-approved pheromone sprays, calming collars, or even anxiety wraps help pets feel secure.

Phil Turner-Naylor head of marketing said: “There are hidden dangers everywhere, so as a responsible pet owner ensure you’re prepared for spooky season and bonfire night which can both be very stressful for our furry friends.

“Keep them safe, calm, and happy by giving them a quiet space, avoiding fireworks close by, and never leaving them unattended. Fun for you shouldn’t mean fear for them.”

Halloween Range

To help your pets can get involved safely, Jollyes has launched their spook-tacular range for Halloween, so your furry friends can get in the spooky spirit, with a wide selection of toys and treats.

From Halloween character jumpers and headless pumpkin toys to book of spells cat scratcher and wiggly cat teasers, the range has everything your four-legged companion needs for a purrfectly fun celebration.

The range is available now in-store and online, but beware, these won’t stick around long.

Below are just some of the products available – check out www.jollyes.co.uk for more.

The PetFellas, a new distributor of premium pet products to the independent and wider pet retail sector, has announced its second major distribution partnership – this time with US-based Logical Brands, the creators of the innovative Playology range of dog and cat toys.

Launching in Q1 2026, this partnership marks a significant milestone in The PetFellas’ mission to bring world-class pet products to UK retailers.

Playology dog toys are scientifically engineered to engage a dog's strongest sense - smell. Using patented scent embedding technology, each toy is infused with natural scents that are released during play, keeping dogs engaged longer. Built from durable materials, these toys deliver lasting enrichment, mental stimulation, and fun for dogs of all ages and play styles.

Playology cat toys bring out a cat’s inner hunter with lifelike movements, bright colours, and unpredictable action that mimic real prey. Designed to stimulate a cat's natural hunting instincts, these toys provide endless entertainment and promote healthy, active play.

With Playology, playtime becomes more than just fun - it's scientifically enriched engagement for happier, healthier pets.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Logical Brands to introduce Playology to the UK market,” said Gerard O’Mahony, Director of The PetFellas. “Playology is a standout brand that combines science, durability, and fun—perfectly aligned with our commitment to offering innovative, high quality products to independent pet retailers.”

“As a leading innovator in dog and cat toys, we – Logical Brands – are delighted to be starting this

partnership with The Pet Fellas as our distributor in the United Kingdom,” said Petra Honeck, VP of International Sales at Logical Brands.

“Their strong reputations, industry expertise, and distribution network make them the ideal partner to help us grow and bring our fantastic brands (Playology, Grrreen & Hound20), to the UK pet consumers and customers.

“This appointment reflects our commitment to expanding globally and delivering innovative, premium pet products that enrich the lives of pets and their owners.”

The PetFellas will begin distribution to select UK retail partners in early 2026, with a full rollout planned throughout the year. Retailers interested in stocking Playology can contact The PetFellas directly for pre-launch information and ordering.

This announcement follows The PetFellas’ successful start of their partnership with Earth. Animal and reinforces its position as a dynamic new player in the UK pet distribution landscape.

My Anxious Dog, the small business helping anxious and reactive dogs get the space they need, has been featured on BBC One’s Escape to the Country – bringing national visibility to the movement supporting 'dogs in yellow'.

Sarah Jones and her husband Matt, from Binfield in Berkshire, appeared on the popular property programme as they searched for a new home in Herefordshire, a move they never imagined making until life circumstances made it necessary.

“After Matt lost his arm in a cycling accident, we realised we needed to make some big changes. Moving wasn’t a choice it was something we had to do to rebuild a life that worked for both of us,” said Sarah.

Having lived in Berkshire all their lives, the idea of leaving was daunting. But their new home needed to support Matt’s health needs and the continued growth of My Anxious Dog – the brand Sarah created to help anxious dogs, inspired by their own Cocker Spaniel Bella, be seen, respected and safe in public spaces.

“Because of Matt’s accident, we had very specific needs when it came to finding a new home,” Sarah explained. “He lives with chronic fatigue and pain, and only has the use of one arm, so everything – from mowing the lawn to navigating the house – needs to be simple and manageable. We were looking for a property without steep steps or awkward layouts, and with easy access for the business too, as Matt can’t carry heavy boxes or equipment.”

The episode begins with a close-up look at My Anxious Dog's range of bright yellow space awareness products. Viewers were given a behind-the-scenes look at the business, with cameras capturing footage inside the My Anxious Dog office, including shots of awareness posters, product displays, and the awards the brand has proudly received over the years.

“It felt very personal, letting the cameras into our workspace,” Sarah shared. “But they really captured the heart of what we do — from our messaging and product design, to the wider mission of making life safer and less stressful for anxious dogs and their owners.”

One of the most meaningful moments of the episode features Bella herself, walking calmly down the road in her yellow harness and lead designed by Sarah — a powerful visual reminder of why My Anxious Dog exists in the first place.

Filming also included one of the business’s Yellow Space Zones at a dog show — calm, supportive areas where overwhelmed dogs can retreat from the hustle and bustle of events. These zones are part of a growing initiative to make dog-friendly events more inclusive for sensitive dogs and their owners.

“It was really special to have My Anxious Dog included,” Sarah said. “The yellow products, the Yellow Space Zones — even Bella herself — it all reflects what we’ve built this brand around. 

Although branded clothing wasn’t allowed during filming, Sarah proudly wore her yellow hoodie as part of her marketing campaign #DogsinYellow,  a national awareness day she founded to help the public understand why some dogs wear yellow and what it means.

While juggling filming, travel and dog shows made the process hectic, Sarah said the experience has been transformative.

“We’ve been living with my mum for the last few years while trying to sell our house. Finally being able to search for a home that suits both our personal life and the business gave us real clarity. We fell in love with the village of Wellington, and we’re hopeful that’s where we’ll be able to build our next chapter.”

Most importantly, she hopes the episode will raise awareness for dogs in yellow and the people walking beside them.

“My Anxious Dog is about more than just products – it’s about giving anxious dogs a voice. Being featured on Escape to the Country is a huge step forward in helping people understand that sometimes, all a dog needs is space and compassion.”

Sarah and Matt’s episode of Escape to the Country aired on Monday (13 October) on BBC One and is now available on BBC iPlayer – Series 26 epside 8.

The Pet Industry Federation has published valuable new content on its website to support pet businesses across the UK.

Two new online courses are now live on the PIF Education platform: ‘How to Make Your Retail Space Stand Out’, an online course on merchandising products in store, looking at customer psychology, seasonal changes, colour, and store layout; and ‘Dog Grooming Welfare’, designed to help pet groomers better understand canine behaviour, stress signals, and handling techniques with a focus on animal welfare. Both courses come with an exclusive 20% discount for PIF members.

Ahead of crucial tax changes taking place from April 2026, which will affect small businesses, including sole traders, PIF has also uploaded a new Making Tax Digital for the Self-Employed fact sheet to its Members’ Area. This important update explains the 2026 tax changes that will affect businesses with annual sales over £50,000, helping members prepare now for digital record-keeping and quarterly reporting.

These new resources join a growing range of support tools, training, and business guidance available exclusively to PIF members: from legal templates and compliance checklists to discounted learning and networking events.

To access these benefits and become part of the UK’s leading community for pet businesses, visit www.petfederation.co.uk

Seven licensing officers from across Wales have become the first in the country to achieve the VetSkill VTEC Level 3 Award in the Licensing of Selling Animals as Pets, a new qualification developed by Animal Focused in partnership with Vetskill and Animal Licensing Wales.

The qualification marks a major milestone in improving the consistency and professionalism of animal licensing across Wales, ensuring that officers responsible for inspecting and licensing pet shops have the knowledge and confidence to apply welfare standards fairly and effectively.

Until now, there has been no recognised qualification for licensing officers working in this area, with learners previously achieving an accredited certificate. The new award provides practical and theory training in key topics such as implementing the legislation, understanding species-specific needs, and assessing compliance with the guidance.

Vicky Skinner, Founder of Animal Focused, said: “This qualification is about giving licensing officers the tools and understanding they need to apply the guidance consistently and confidently. It’s a huge step forward in protecting animal welfare and ensuring pet sellers across Wales are held to the same high standard.”

Animal Licensing Wales Project Manager, Zoe Phillips believes this is a key step in improving animal welfare across Wales; “Licensing officers play a crucial role in ensuring animal welfare standards across licensed premises, being able to offer such comprehensive training really helps drive home the responsibility these officers have. The assessments ensure the officers really understand how to apply the guidance accurately and consistently to meet their legal obligations.”

The first group of officers completed their training at Bridgend College earlier this year, with further cohorts now being planned.