Revealed: Top 50 pet industry news stories of 2018
It has been an amazing and eventful year for the UK pet industry with lots of companies making headline news (good and bad) as well as scores of exciting and innovative new products being launched. In this, the 50th and final Pet Trade Xtra bulletin of the year, what better way to look back on 2018 than through the Top 50 best-read stories?
Mutt & Co Pet Boutique (pictured above) in Hartlepool, Teesside, has only been open for just over a year and progress has been so dramatic that the store has been crowned UK Pet Retailer of the Year at the PetQuip Awards. It was the 4th most read story of the year.
 |
|
Merry Christmas to all Pet Trade Xtra readers
This is the 50th and final issue of Pet Trade Xtra for 2018. We would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thanks for your continued interest in our weekly newsletter and just tio let you know we'll be back on Thursday, January 3rd.
|
|
|
|
The owner of a 20-month-old cockapoo has been left “distraught” after part of his dog’s tongue was cut off by a Pets at Home groomer, reports the Peterborough Telegraph.
According to the newspaper Mike Corry took his pet Marley to the store in the Bretton Centre for a routine grooming appointment. But when he went to pick up the dog he was told the animal’s tongue had been “nicked” while the groomer cut the fur around his face.
Mr Corey took Marley to a local veterinary practice and was told the tongue may need to be stitched or rounded off.
“We’re devastated and distraught. It’s a bad curved cut which is quite severe,” Mr Corry told the Peterborough Telegraph.
A spokesman for Pets at Home said: “We are very sorry for the upset and concern caused by this unfortunate accident and hope that Marley is on the mend soon.
“Marley was seen by our in-house vet when the accident occurred who had no concerns about the small cut on Marley’s tongue and did not feel that any further action was required.
Read the whole Peterborough Telegraph story by clicking here
|
|
New appointments at pet food firm
The number of employees at the Real Petfood Company has more than doubled from 30 to 65 since the firm moved to its current site at Kinmel Park in Bodelwyddan some two years ago. The latest appointments are Ceri Twist as Technical Services Manager and Ross Dilworth as an electrical & software engineering apprentice...
The Real Petfood Company – which is based at Kinmel Park in Bodelwyddan – has appointed Ceri Twist as Technical Services Manager. She joins from Arla Foods where she was for seven years, latterly as Site Grader & Stock Controller. In her new role she will play a key role in general product innovation including developing more export products and increasing the range of wet dog food.
At Arla Foods her responsibilities included daily analysis of production records to assess the length of storage for different cheese products, the development of a new product benchmarking system and improving the integration of the site into the local community.
The firm has also appointed Ross Dilworth – previously a production worker at the business – as an electrical & software engineering apprentice. He joins the maintenance team and after four years will be a fully qualified, multi-skilled engineer. In addition, the business is actively looking for a second apprentice and has enlisted further education colleges Coleg Menai and Coleg Cambria to help with recruitment.
Chris Akroyd, the firm’s engineering manager said: “Our in-house maintenance team has now grown to the size that we can offer apprentices a comprehensive and valuable training programme. It is well-known that qualified engineers in the manufacturing sector are in short supply and, once qualified they can look forward to excellent career opportunities and a salary package of some £40,000pa.”
The number of employees at the Real Petfood Company has more than doubled from 30 to 65 since the firm moved to its current site some two years ago. The business makes premium quality pet food for brands such as Wagg and Harringtons as well as a wide range of own label products for major retailers.
|
|
HOWND will be launching starter packs of its award-winning range of 100% natural Hemp Wellness Treats in the New Year. When ordering a case of 10 units per variety (total x 50 units) customers will receive a free branded counter display unit.
The free functional CDUs are decorated with eye-catching visuals and branded in HOWND’s distinctive colours. The displays can hold twenty units of HOWND’s premium range of vegetarian hemp-based treats.
The starter packs will be available to order from Pedigree Wholesale and directly from HOWND from mid-January. Trade price £132.50 plus VAT. RRP per unit £4.50.
HOWND created Hemp Wellness Treats to complement its ethical range of pet care products. Made in the UK from ethically sourced local ingredients, these premium snacks come in five different flavours; tackling common conditions, such as smelly breath (Yup You Stink!), itchy skin (Got an Itch?), calming anxiety (Keep Calm), healthy bone development (Playful Pup), and stiff joints associated with ageing (Golden Oldies).
All of HOWND’s pet care products are natural, cruelty-free and 100% and HOWND is endorsed by the Nature Watch Foundation. HOWND has the coveted Ethical Accreditation from the Ethical Company Organisation, with all products in the pet care range bearing the Cruelty Free International ‘Leaping Bunny’ logo – only one of a handful of pet product manufacturers worldwide to receive this accreditation.
www.dogslovehownd.com
|
|
Specialist petfood brand, HiLife, celebrates as its range of natural dog and cat food is named Top Launch for the Petcare category, by The Grocer in its Top Products Survey 2018.
The HiLife It’s only natural range was selected for this top spot by The Grocer’s editorial team for being on trend and “good enough to eat”. The publication’s Top Products Survey is produced annually and is a highly influential list for businesses supplying the grocery industry.
Owned by Town and Country Petfoods, HiLife developed the popular range using only natural ingredients such as meat, fish and garden vegetables. Produced with the health-conscious pet owner in mind, each of the hand-prepared dishes contains no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives - meeting the growing demand for natural pet food made with high quality ingredients and attention to provenance.
Prior to the launch of It’s only natural, HiLife undertook substantial research with consumer groups to understand the meaning of ‘natural’ to pet owners. The team used this insight to identify consumer priorities and create products that would stand out in a crowded pet food market.
Commenting on the win, Tony Parkinson (above), Managing Director at HiLife said: “Our industry is highly competitive. As one of the smaller players in the petfood market, we have to work harder and smarter to maintain our position. Our products have to deliver results for both stockists and our customers. It’s why we’re proud to have been recognised by The Grocer for our launch of HiLife It’s only natural.
“For more than three decades, HiLife has put its passion for producing high quality and premium pet food at the heart of its business. As a brand we aim to bring a stream of new and unique products to market that pet retailers can be confident meet the needs of today’s discerning consumer.
“This acknowledgment from The Grocer is a real pat on the back for the whole team and a fantastic way to see out an incredible year of business.”
The HiLife It’s only natural range for cats and dogs is available now in independent pet stores, supermarkets and online.
hilifepet.co.uk
|
|
Chuckit! plays Santa Paws to homeless pups
Christmas comes early for the homeless pups at the Godmanchester Wood Green centre thanks to a recent delivery of dog toys, which has been gifted to them by leading dog toy brand Chuckit!...
Christmas comes early for the homeless pups at the Godmanchester Wood Green centre thanks to a recent delivery of dog toys, which has been gifted to them by leading dog toy brand Chuckit!
As one of the leading animal welfare organisations in the UK, Wood Green, The Animals Charity relies on the generosity of donations to fund their work re-homing animals and providing support in the local area to help bring pets and their owners closer together, echoing the Chuckit! brand ethos of ensuring all dogs can lead healthy and happy lifestyles.
As a charity, the all-round health of the pets that Wood Green care for is their top priority and the toy donation from Chuckit!, which includes a range of balls and launchers as well as a collection of brand new toys, will enable the carers to encourage even more interactive and fun ways to play. Plus help potential new pet owners visiting the centre to build bonds with the pooches.
Stacey Hamilton, Fundraising Assistant at Wood Green comments: “We’re incredibly grateful here at Wood Green for the generous donation and for the support of a large national brand like Chuckit!”
 “As a charity, we rely on donations to help ensure that the pets in our care receive the best possible care and the toys can make such a difference to the quality of the lives of the dogs and we just want to thank them for their contribution.”
Presenting the toys to Wood Green, Will Baggaley, UK brand manager for Chuckit! said: “We are delighted to be able to bring some Christmas cheer to the dogs at Wood Green in Godmanchester and hope that the Chuckit! toys will help provide the dogs with hours of fun.”
For more information on Chuckit! toys and where you can buy them locally, visit: http://chuckit-toys.co.uk, and for more information on donating to Wood Green, visit: http://www.woodgreen.org.uk/.
|
|
In 2018, leading pet food brand EUKANUBA launched a pioneering programme, searching the country to find five incredibly special dogs of different life stages. They would become the official EUKANUBA Live Life Well Together Ambassadors.
As part of the campaign, the Ambassadors trialled EUKANUBA’s new and improved recipes for 12 weeks. Together with the team at EUKANUBA, they were keen to see if the new formulae could really help to improve their dogs optimal body condition.
Here are the results:
Growing Puppy Ambassador
Recently engaged Rachael and Ivan are the proud owners of Jasper who, at the start of the programme, was just 9 months old. Since taking part in the EUKANUBA trial, Jasper puts his mum’s recently whitened teeth to shame, with many people commenting on how white his teeth look. He’s also got lots more energy now and is keeping Ivan on his toes with three walks a day.
Developing Junior Ambassador
Reuben is an 18-month-old Weimaraner, who’s growing up fast. Since trialling EUKANUBA’s new and improved recipe, his owner, Corrine, noticed how amazingly his muscles were developing - so much so that he’s breezed through his Junior Warrant and is dominating in the dog show world.
Active Adult Ambassador
Eddie is a 1-year-old Dachshund with a mighty heart and is a great companion for Lucy. Since eating new EUKANUBA, his coat has transformed and there’s been a lot less toilet breaks, with his stools smelling a lot less too - something Lucy believes is thanks to the yucca extract in the new and improved range.
Active Adult Ambassador
6-year-old Cockapoo Poppy is an agility champion whose owner, 17-year-old Roxy, describes as her best friend. Before transferring to new EUKANUBA, Poppy was fed on a raw diet and was quite picky with her food. 12 weeks on, Poppy is no longer a fussy eater and loves meal times. Since trialling the new nutrition, Poppy has maintained her body weight, but now boasts a new more slim figure and improved fitness levels.
Thriving Mature Ambassador
Cheeky Charlie is a 7-year-old Jack Russell Cross rescue who’d been over loved with treats. Since finding his forever home with Charlotte and Francessca he’d gained a few unwanted pounds. After 12 weeks of trialling EUKANUBA’s Thriving Mature recipe, Charlie lost an impressive 4.5cm off his waist. His new, more streamline figure means he has more energy and even beats his big sister Francessca in running races at the park.
Commenting on the results, Kellie Ceccarelli, EUKANUBA’s Veterinary Expert says; “I’m delighted with the results our ambassadors have achieved. When I saw them all after the 12-week period I couldn’t believe the difference.
“Our unique trial has helped to educate our ambassadors about their dogs’ nutritional needs, so they can achieve optimal body condition and enjoy many more happy and healthy years together. We hope that the Ambassador Live Life Well Together Programme can show dog owners how much of a difference new EUKANUBA could make to their dogs. After all, it made an enormous difference to these five everyday dogs living real lives in real homes.”
The results of EUKANUBA’s Live Life Well Together Ambassador Programme will go on to inform a marketing campaign for 2019, featuring in POS, trade shows and below the line activity.
For more information about the EUKANUBA Live Life Well Together Ambassadors visit www.eukanuba.co.uk/ambassadors
|
|
Skinner’s Pet foods has become an official club partner of dog-loving Gloucester Rugby Club.
Gloucester Rugby’s chief commercial officer, Adam Benson, said: “The pet industry has shown tremendous growth over the last twenty years and this agreement shows just how dynamic this market sector is. We’re a very dog friendly club.
“Lots of members of the playing department, as well as the staff at Kingsholm, are proud dog owners. This partnership is a perfect fit for Gloucester Rugby and we’re looking forward to working with the team at Skinner’s on some really exciting projects.”
William Delamore, sales & marketing director for Skinner’s Pet Foods, commented: “We are delighted to become a partner of Gloucester Rugby. I spend every Sunday morning during the season watching my son play junior rugby, many of the people I meet have dogs, enjoy the countryside and outdoor pursuits. This is a perfect fit for us to build our brand and support a sport we love.
“The rugby community is very comparable to our canine world. The companionship, loyalty and love for your four-legged friend is similar to the relationship you have for your team and team mates. We know that sport, exercise and activity is great for your health, body and spirit, owning a dog provides this to so many people.
“By partnering with Gloucester Rugby, we can engage further with our audience of existing and prospective customers. The rugby community and values mirror Skinner’s philosophy of teamwork, respect and passion for what we do. We are looking forward to a long and productive relationship with Gloucester Rugby.”
|
|
Aviemore’s on the horizon for CSJ team
As a sponsor of The Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain Aviemore Sled Dog Rally the CSJ team will be on hand mingling with the crowds, posting live on social media and interviewing the mushers...
CSJ are busily preparing to attend the biggest event in the British sled dog racing calendar.
As a sponsor of The Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain Aviemore Sled Dog Rally the CSJ team will be on hand mingling with the crowds, posting live on social media and interviewing the mushers.
Held on 26th and 27th January and organised by the Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain in conjunction with Forestry Commission Scotland the race takes place on forest trails around the beautiful Loch Morlich in the shadow of the Cairngorm Mountains.
The 2019 rally will be its 36th anniversary – having grown from only 12 teams taking part to now over 1,000 dogs and 250 mushers.
As well as Siberian Huskies, competing dogs will include Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, Greenland Dogs and Canadian Eskimo Dogs – pedigree breeds first bred to pull sleds in arctic conditions centuries ago.
Of course everyone hopes for snow, but if there’s none at ground level the teams of between two and eight dogs will use three-wheeled rigs on the four to seven mile trail.
The excitement of the dogs before their race shows how much they love doing what they were bred for and CSJ are delighted to once again be associated with this prestigious event.
For more on CSJ products visit www.csjk9.com or call 01745710470
|
|
Partnership aims to improve outcomes for pets
Simplyhealth and Felcana have announced that they are to collaborate as strategic partners. Simplyhealth’s expertise in preventive health plans will support the efforts of Felcana’s team of veterinary surgeons, data scientists and engineers, with a view to understanding how pet health plans can support the development of its state-of- the-art digital platforms and technologies.
Simplyhealth and Felcana have announced that they are to collaborate as strategic partners.
Simplyhealth’s expertise in preventive health plans will support the efforts of Felcana’s team of veterinary surgeons, data scientists and engineers, with a view to understanding how pet health plans can support the development of its state-of- the-art digital platforms and technologies.
Sally Clarke, Director of Vets at Simplyhealth, says: “It is important for Simplyhealth to be at the forefront of innovation, especially innovation that has the potential to produce a paradigm shift within the profession. We’re excited to be playing our part in collaboration with the Felcana team, to ensure veterinary practices can make the most of this opportunity.”
The collaboration will focus on how digital technology can detect and track variances in behaviour and activity and identify how data can be acted upon to improve pet health and welfare.
Dr. James Andrews, CEO of Felcana, commented: “We are very excited to partner with such a digitally engaged company like Simplyhealth Professionals to deliver our combined mission to improve animal health and welfare. There is huge potential in the veterinary profession for the use of sophisticated digital innovations to support clinicians.”
Veterinary professionals recognise the benefits when pets are able to present to the practice at an early stage of a disease. Unfortunately for clients it can be difficult to recognise subtle changes in a pet’s behaviour or wellness which often means that pets present much later in the disease process.
It’s anticipated that this new technology will allow over 90% of health issues to be predicted or detected at an early stage, facilitating early intervention and as a result, generating more positive outcomes.
Felcana’s Digital Pet Health Platform uses a bespoke modelling process which revolutionises how owners monitor their dog and cat health. Through complex scientific algorithms, which can interpret a pet’s behavioural patterns such as drinking, eating and sleeping, owners are now able to track their pets needs through their smart phones.
This technology is hoped to provide effective relief to conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes and kidney failure, at an earlier stage to minimise the pain for the animal. Felcana have collaborated with the Royal Veterinary College to combine their expertise in a range of exciting pet wearable health projects and enhance the levels of data related to tracking behaviours, habits and activities.
Sally notes that making sure that pet owners can connect with their vet to help them interpret the significance of the data is critically important and practices must also be familiar with the technology to allow them to draw the right conclusions,
“We will support both parties and help them work together to improve and maintain pet health. Our teams are very excited to be working with Felcana and its new digital technologies and making a positive contribution to the future development of the profession.”
For more information visit:
www.felcana.com
www.simplyhealthprofessionals.co.uk
|
|
|
|
|
The best of the previous Pet Trade Xtra
The top-read stories from last week's Pet Trade Xtra can be seen below, if you missed them...
Pet shop owner devastated by £60,000 raid
The owner of a pet store admits that a raid on his premises in the West Midlands, which resulted in £60,000 worth of supplies being stolen, has had a ‘devastating’ affect on the family-run business...
The owner of a pet store admits that a raid on his premises in the West Midlands, which resulted in £60,000 worth of supplies being stolen, has had a ‘devastating’ affect on the family-run business.
Mike Burke, owner of The Big Pet Store in Halesowen, told the Express & Star newspaper: “It’s upsetting. The loss of the stock and money is one thing but it’s upsetting to find someone has done that to you in the first place. Who would want to do that?
“Our customers have been great, but it really knocks you back and it makes you think – why do you bother?
“We can go through the insurance company but to come here and see the door smashed in, your heart drops.
“We’re coming back – we’re strong. There’s a reason to do what we do.”
The pet store, which has been built up from a market stall, moved into its current location in 2005.
As well as pet products being stolen from the store, a number of fish died after the burglars poured bags of fish food into the tank.
A police investigation is currently taking place.
To read the full Express & Star story click here
|
|
Natural Instinct recalls Wild Venison cat food
RAW pet food company Natural Instinct is recalling its Wild Venison (Natural Cat Food) because some of the ingredients were not inspected in line with EU requirements. The absence of inspection means the safety of the product cannot be confirmed and may therefore carry a potential risk...
 
Natural Instinct is recalling its Wild Venison (Natural Cat Food) because some of the ingredients were not inspected in line with EU requirements. The absence of inspection means the safety of the product cannot be confirmed and may therefore carry a potential risk.
On the Foods Standards Agency website it states that the food recall is Northern Ireland and Wales specific.
In its Product Recall Notice, the company stated:
"Natural Instinct has been informed by the Foods Standards Agency that our supplier of the venison offal used ONLY in our Wild Venison Natural Cat Food 250g & 500g has not had the offal inspected in line with legal requirements.
"The absence of inspection does not mean that the product is unsafe but means the safety of this product cannot be confirmed.
"Natural Instinct takes its obligations regarding pet food safety very seriously and requires its suppliers to comply with the appropriate legal requirements.
"Natural Instinct has therefore agreed with the Food Standards Agency to undertake a recall out Wild Venison Natural Cat Food product."
Point-of-sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.
In its risk statement the Foods Standards Agency said: "Some of the ingredients were not inspected in line with EU requirements. The absence of inspection means the safety of the product cannot be confirmed and may therefore carry a potential risk."
More details can be found on the Foods Standards Agency website:
https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-65-2018
|
|
Leading UK pet food manufacturer Symply has again turned to Law Print for its packaging needs, this time to help with its Canagan brand ‘refresh’.
Symply recognised that the time was right for a refresh – rather than a full re-brand – of the existing bags, and Law Print, which has provided Canagan’s packaging since 2012, was more than happy to assist.
Manchester-based Law Print was able to offer expertise on materials and manufacturing, pack format optimisation, pre-and post-press quality management and print management – as well as managing supply chain logistics.
Carole Bayne, Director of Sales and Marketing for Law Print, said: “When such a well-established pet food brand as Canagan decides to go through a revamp, it can be a huge risk. Needless to say, we were delighted to be part of the journey and it is evident that the benchmark has been set even higher with the new packaging.”
James Milbourne, Director at Symply, said: “Having recently undergone a complete packaging refresh across our entire Canagan brand, we have found the process to be fast and efficient as always from Law Print. Whenever we undertake a large project such as this, it is imperative that our partners are quick to respond and fast to implement and that has been true throughout our refresh.
“The packaging quality is of utmost importance to us as each year we sell over one million bags of our award-winning food and the feedback we receive from our clients across the world is overwhelmingly positive.”
Symply took the opportunity to introduce two new lines – Highland Feast and Dental – two specially-formulated grain-free formulas with a selection of vegetables and botanicals.
For more information about Law Print, visit www.lawprint.co.uk
|
|
Vet issues winter warning to dog owners
A leading UK vet has issued a winter warning to owners of water-loving dogs over the dangers of potentially-fatal canine hypothermia, as Storm Deirdre threatens to bring a Nordic blast of cold to the UK.
A leading UK vet has issued a winter warning to owners of water-loving dogs over the dangers of potentially-fatal canine hypothermia, as Storm Deirdre threatens to bring a Nordic blast of cold to the UK.
As the weather gets colder so do our rivers and lakes, and while many breeds can cope with close-to-freezing temperatures it can be particularly harmful to others.
Even on a hot day, bodies of water can be cold enough to send a canine’s body into shock, which can cause them to gasp and start swallowing water.
Many pet owners are aware of the dangers of heatstroke, but top vet Iain Booth warns cold weather conditions such as hypothermia are not as well-known.
 Ian Booth, the managing director and resident veterinary surgeon at VetUK said: “In summer, we warn about dogs dying in hot cars, in winter the message is very much about staying safe around water.
“A dog’s normal body temperature is around 38.3-39.2°C, and it only has to drop a few degrees to enter the danger zone.
“Mild hypothermia in dogs occurs between 32 and 35°C, moderate hypothermia between 28 and 32°C, and severe hypothermia is anything below 28°C.
“Because most dogs have fur coats, we tend to think of them as being quite hardy and resistant to the cold — even more so than their owners.
“But external factors, like being wet on a freezing day, can cause body temperature to fall quickly, which can be potentially fatal for our pets.
“Cold water in particular can be very dangerous and can send dogs into shock quite quickly. During the winter months it might be advisable to kit out more adventurous of animals with a life jacket, have a thermometer close to hand, and keep them on a lead when close to water.
“If you think your pet is in trouble, whatever you do, don’t dive in to help them. Seeing your beloved animal in distress is horrible to watch but call 999 instead of risking your own life as well.
“Many animals are able to get themselves out of cold water eventually — unlike a lot of humans.”
He added: “If you are worried about your dog after falling into cold water, there are a few warning signs you can look out for such as lethargy, stiff muscles, and pale or grey gums.
“Pet thermometers are available to check your dog’s temperature, so it is handy to have something like that to hand in winter.
“Anything below 35°C should be a cause for concern.”
As in most other animals, hypothermia occurs in dogs when the body is no longer able to maintain a normal temperature. This in turn causes a depression of the central nervous system.
The condition can also bring respiratory, immune and cardiovascular risks.
Founded in 2003, VetUK is a market leader in cost-effective own brand products that are cheaper than big brand high street names.
The company offers an alternative to owners being obliged to take their pets to vets for similar but more expensive treatment.
Growth has been rapid, and in July it recorded its three millionth internet order and grew turnover to £100m.
The business, which employs over 30 people and is a UK licensed supplier of pet medications, sells over 7,500 items.
Full information on VetUK is available by visiting www.vetuk.co.uk
|
|
International interest soars in PATS trade exhibition
PATS Telford is on track to attract ever-stronger numbers of international buyers in 2019. Leading trade association PetQuip will be taking part in PATS Telford once more. Its multi-lingual personnel will be manning the International Buyers’ Lounge, providing information on the UK market and suppliers to the international buyers attending the show.
PATS Telford is on track to attract ever-stronger numbers of international buyers in 2019.
Leading trade association PetQuip will be taking part in PATS Telford once more. Its multi-lingual personnel will be manning the International Buyers’ Lounge, providing information on the UK market and suppliers to the international buyers attending the show.
The PATS team is also taking a stand within the PetQuip-organised British Pavilion at Zoomark in Bologna, Italy, next May, to promote the Telford event, which is ever-increasing in popularity with international pet product buyers.
Four PATS exhibitions have been held at The Telford International Centre to date, with each event attracting more than 2,000 visitors. Last year 75 of these were from Europe, with an additional 17 from the rest of the world.
Leading international trade association PetQuip has again confirmed that its members have tasked the association to help attract overseas pet retail chains and distributors to the Autumn showpiece. The PetQuip team will be hosting the International Buyers’ Centre, where PATS exhibitors will have the opportunity to meet and sell to invited buyers and can also seek advice on all aspects of international trade.
In addition, the prestigious PetQuip Awards will take place following the first day of the exhibition. During an evening when outstanding success in the industry is celebrated, the PATS Telford New Product Awards, sponsored by pbwnews, will also be presented.
Show organiser Gordon Thomas said: “We are delighted to be working alongside PetQuip on our international buyers’ programme, which is proving to be a huge benefit to PATS exhibitors. I am looking forward to welcoming an increasing number of international buyers to Telford next September.
 Amanda Sizer Barratt MBE (left), Director General of PetQuip, said: “Our team is working hard to help UK suppliers to begin exporting, open up new distributorships or expand their international sales into new and developing markets, and PATS provides a welcome opportunity for PetQuip to deliver information, advice and new sales leads to exhibitors and to help international buyers find the best products to add to their ranges.”
A big attraction for international visitors is the large number of exporting companies taking stands at PATS Telford, a fact backed up by Henrik Siig, of Whesco Trading, Denmark, who made the trip to the 2018 show. Henrik said: “PATS is a great event because it gives us access to all the new products from UK suppliers. The show is easy to get around and has a nice intimate feel to it.”
Another international visitor, Michel Carbone, from Italy, added: “UK pet companies launch some of the most innovative products in the world and PATS is the best place to see them.”
PATS Telford 2019 is shaping up to be one of the most successful events in the show’s history, and regular exhibitors acknowledge it delivers the right calibre of visitor from both the UK and Europe.
“Each year the exhibition seems to get busier and better. We chose to launch our new products at Telford in September and it proved to be an inspired move. We were busy throughout the whole show,” said Suzanne Rothman, of Pet Munchies.
Anne Wood, of Broadreach Nature+, commented: “This year's PATS Telford was the best one yet for us. Having launched Broadreach Nature+ at the show in September 2015 it was amazing to go back and get so many positive leads. It was lovely to see a number of international buyers looking to expand their ranges and gain new contacts.”
And pet shop owner Jamie Gleave, of Paws and Claws, Cheshire, summed up why the show is a must-visit for retailers: “PATS Telford never fails to impress! The Telford International venue is perfectly suited for this important event in the pet trade calendar, particularly with its central location, easy access and free parking.”
More than 200 companies are expected to exhibit at PATS Telford 2019 and leading firms who have already booked include: Bamfords, Broadreach Nature+, Burgess Pet Care, Eden Pet Foods, flexi, Forthglade, Inspired Pet Nutrition,Johnson's Veterinary Products, Kruuse, Lennox, Loving Pets, Marriages, Natures Menu, Petlife International, Trixie and Versele-Laga.
Visitors to PATS Telford can expect to see an unrivalled array of new pet products and speak to top suppliers and manufacturers. They will also be able to witness demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers and listen to talks from prominent industry figures. For all the latest news on PATS visit www.patshow.co.uk
|
|
National award for pet-tech product entrepreneur
Pet product entrepreneur Andrew Nowell, founder of PitPat, has been crowned ‘Internet of Things Founder of the Year’ at the inaugural BMW i UK Tech Founder Awards, coming out on top above the likes of TechSixtyFour, JCC Bowers and Limbic AI.
Pet product entrepreneur Andrew Nowell, founder of PitPat, has been crowned ‘Internet of Things Founder of the Year’ at the inaugural BMW i UK Tech Founder Awards, coming out on top above the likes of TechSixtyFour, JCC Bowers and Limbic AI.
The awards, held at Bloomsbury Big Top in London, celebrated the outstanding entrepreneurial journeys of those who create, disrupt and innovate within the UK’s rapidly changing tech landscape.
Nowell created PitPat in 2014 following years working in a leading engineering consultancy within the wearables and smart home markets. He saw PitPat as the opportunity to combine his two biggest passions - dogs and technology - and PitPat is now the bestselling dog activity monitor in the UK.
Of his win, Nowell comments: “I’m honoured to have been recognised alongside so many inspirational entrepreneurs within the tech scene. When we launched our first prototype in 2016 we didn’t know what the future held for us, but since then our product has helped to keep thousands of dogs happy and healthy. Our PitPat Pack together have achieved a staggering 1 billion minutes of activity.”
Whilst 50% of all start-ups are estimated to fail within the first two years of inception, the UK has continued to lead the way for funding activity in the European technology sector, according to figures revealed by Stripe, Tech.eu and Techstars last month.
Nowell continues: “We’re exceptionally proud to manufacture our product here in the UK and support local jobs. This award win and the success of PitPat as a product is proof that entrepreneurs can succeed in what is a very challenging market.”
Francesca James, founder of the BMW i UK Tech Founder Awards added: “As a first year Awards programme, we have been blown away by both the number and quality of applications from across a broad spectrum of niches. It is always an achievement in itself to be named a finalist in any Awards, perhaps more so within the thriving tech space. But special congratulations go to our winners.”
Winners were revealed in 13 other categories across the ceremony, hosted by The Gadget Show’s Georgie Barrat, from a range of tech industries, including AgTech, HealthTech and FinTech.
Pictured from left to right: Andrew Nowell (PitPat Founder), Georgie Barrat (The Gadget Show, hosted the awards), Michael Bateman (PitPat advisor).
https://www.pitpat.com/
|
|
Final-year students at the Royal Veterinary College have stripped naked for a 2019 calendar in support of charity.
All the proceeds from calendar sales – priced at £10 each – will be donated to Vetlife, a charity providing emotional, financial and mental health support to the veterinary community.
Photos on the calendar show the wannabe vets posing some of the animals they’re going to be taking care of in future.
The theme for the 2019 calendar is 'Vets in Action' and final-year student Ben Alexander Smith, who took the photos, said: “I wanted to take photos that would reflect a stripped back representation of the various careers vets in practice have. I’m really happy with the artistic look of the calendar and they are flying off the shelves."
The calendar can be bought here: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/254001512830
|
|
Specialist retailer Orvis UK has launched a new range of dog treats.
Despite Orvis being well-known for producing luxury dog product,s including their memory foam dog beds, this is the first time the company has created dog food.
The treats are handcrafted in Britain, using sustainably sourced fresh ingredients, and air dried to maintain nutritional value.
The treats are available in:
- Chicken Slices
- Game Slices
- Lamb Slices
- Fishcake Bites with Turmeric
- Whole Dried Sprats
They are only available in the 18 Orvis UK retail stores, and priced at £3.50 for the fishcakes, and £4.50 for all other flavours.
|
|
A former pet shop in Sheringham, North Norfolk, which closed in September, is set to be turned into a store selling pies, sausage rolls and pasties.
Norfolk’s Pie Man has applied for a change of use at the site in Station Road. The pet shop shut down after 20 years without warning in September, to the dismay of regular customers and four staff members, who found themselves without jobs.
In a statement submitted with the plans, Mr Anthony Mattocks, who trades as Norfolk’s Pie Man, said: “The exterior of the heritage asset will not be changed, so there will be no negative impact. I intend to bring its appearance back to its former glory as it has recently been neglected and run-down.”
WHIMZEES releases seasonally-shaped dental chews
WHIMZEES – the all-natural daily dental treats for dogs – is making the leap from alligators to Christmas shapes! Its first ever seasonal shapes, which hit pet stores in the UK this December, feature a snowman and a Christmas tree...
WHIMZEES – the all-natural daily dental treats for dogs – is making the leap from alligators to Christmas shapes! Its first ever seasonal shapes, which hit pet stores in the UK this December, feature a snowman and a Christmas tree.
Fun from the first bite with unique shapes that help ensure proper blood flow through dogs’ gums and help prevent plaque, tartar and bad breath; WHIMZEES uses limited, all-natural ingredients and no artificial ingredients, colours, flavours, preservatives, GMOs, gluten, or meat - perfect for daily use.
Recent scientific studies also show that WHIMZEES are 80% more effective in reducing plaque than leading competitors and have a three times longer chewing time for three times more fun!
Available at your local pet specialty store, the new shapes come in red and green and are available in small, medium and large sizes, so every dog can festively freshen their breath. Like all of WHIMZEES daily dental chews, the Christmas shapes are made with a vegetable-based texture to help remove plaque and tartar as your dog chews. They’re also high in fibre and low in calories and sugars.
To help celebrate the arrival of WHIMZEES snowman and Christmas tree, WHIMZEES is giving away a ‘sleigh full’ of its natural daily dental chews through a social media competition this month; asking pet owner across the U.K. to post a picture of their dog decked out for the holidays.
Whether it’s ‘Santa-Paws’ costumes, reindeer antlers, or your dog enjoying a Christmas play around, post your photos on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #xmasdressup and tagging @WHIMZEESUK for a chance to win a one-month-supply of WHIMZEES holiday shapes. The closing date is 26.12.18.
WHIMZEES has also released its first holiday video starring adorable dogs wagging their bell-equipped tails to the tune of “Jingle Bells.” Pet parents have spent the year treating their dogs and making their dental care a top priority, and WHIMZEES and its dogs wanted to return the favor with a treat of their own. Pet parents will be able to enjoy the video all season long by visiting WHIMZEES on Facebook.
“Our alligator and toothbrush shapes are always popular during the holidays, but this year, we wanted to give pet owners something special to stuff their dog’s stocking with. Our new shapes bring the same fun and function WHIMZEES is known for, but in festive seasonally-inspired shapes,” said Kristof Vlaeminck, senior director of global brand marketing for WHIMZEES.
“And in the spirit of the season, we wanted to launch the new shapes by giving something back to pet owners who give their dogs the gift of dental health. Our social media giveaway and holiday video are our way of saying ‘thank you’ to those who know that one WHIMZEES dental chew a day can mean a healthier, happier holiday season—and more—for our furry friends. We invite dog parents to make every day a holiday and celebrate dental health year-round with WHIMZEES.”
To watch the WHIMZEES holiday video click here
|
|
direct to your e-mail inbox...
The best news service every week.
Subscribe for free by clicking here
|
|
|
