
A family-run independent pet shop has opened in Aberdeen after the business owner accessed support and signposting to funding from Business Gateway.
Based in Haudagain Retail Park, Pets & Care offers a wide variety of live animals, pet supplies and services, ranging from food and treats to toys and grooming products.
The shop also offers a range of natural food and treats, including raw products. Its team of staff are experienced pet care experts and are all on hand to help answer any questions for first-time pet owners or seasoned professionals.
The shop is owned by husband-and-wife team, Otto and Agnes Varga. Originally from Hungary, Otto and Agnes moved to Scotland over 9 years ago.

With over 20 years of experience in charge of pet stores in Hungary, and as a former employee of the UK’s leading pet care business, Otto spotted a gap in the market to open his own shop in Aberdeen and approached Business Gateway for support.
Otto and Agnes accessed a suite of Business Gateway’s start-up services, including one-to-one support from a dedicated business adviser, as well as advice on their business plan, marketing, and HR.The couple also received advice on managing financial projections and cashflow.
Business Gateway was also able to signpost the duo to funding from ABZ Works, which was essential to help purchase the necessary equipment to open their shop to the public.
Looking to the future, the couple now have plans to increase the number of live animals they have for sale and are looking to incorporate the sale of fish.

Otto (above) said: “It was always my dream to open my own pet store. We spotted a gap in the market after noticing a real lack of independently owned pet shops in Aberdeen. I wanted to give customers a one-stop-shop experience in Aberdeen where they can purchase all of their accessories, toys and food.
“Although I have lots of experience in the sector, I had never run my own business, so the support I’ve received from Business Gateway has been invaluable. I can’t thank our adviser enough.”
Keith Smith, Business Gateway adviser, said: “I met with Otto before Pets & Care opened to discuss his business plan and have kept in regular contact with him over the last six months. It’s been really rewarding for me to see his business idea become a reality.“I look forward to continuing to work together in the months ahead as the business begins providing new lines of products.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit https://bgateway.com.
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Pets At Home has posted a jump in annual sales but has seen profits fall back. The pet retail group described its performance as ‘a pivotal year building our platform for future growth’.
Underlying pre-tax profits fell 3.2% to £132m, in line with internal expectations. Pets At Home said profits had been hit by short-term availability issues after it moved into its new distribution centre, as well as a weaker performance in discretionary accessories.
Lyssa McGowan, Chief Executive Officer said: “FY24 has been a pivotal year for the business, having delivered some key building blocks of our platform for long term growth. I am proud of the progress we have made in the year; we relaunched our brand, opened our new DC, built our new digital platform, made progress in our sustainability agenda, and enhanced our physical estate. The business has come together brilliantly to navigate any challenges faced this year, and we have delivered some key milestones of our strategy.
“Our medium-term strategy and financial framework is unchanged and, looking ahead, the fundamental strengths of the business position us well to deliver growth. We hold a leading position in a structurally growing market, with an unrivalled retail store network, and a unique, differentiated and integrated vet business. We know the nation’s pets better than anyone else, with over 10 years of analytical data on 10 million pets, and we now have a best-in-class digital platform, and a modern efficient DC.
“Above all else, we have the best colleagues in the industry, who use their passion and expertise to guide customers through their pet care journey every day. All of this positions us incredibly well as we continue to execute our strategy to build the world’s best pet care platform.”

Business Highlights
FY24 has been a foundational year for Pets at Home. We have delivered the key strategic elements that will form the platform for future growth. We have:
- Launched digital platform to consumers, an important milestone in the digitisation of the business, with our new app and website positioned to bring together everything owners need to care for their pet.
- Brought our new DC onstream, with all stores now being served from a single site and availability at structurally higher levels. We will complete the transition of our online business in the coming year.
- Continued progress in growing our vet footprint, with 3 new vet practices, 26 practice extensions, and 10 company-owned to JV conversions, supported by further progress on vet talent.
- Invested in our pet care centres with 5 new openings and 41 store refits.
- Grown our large, loyal customer base. We now have 7.8m active Pets Club members, up 2% YoY with strong retention and a continued normalisation in new Puppy & Kitten sign ups as expected.
- 1.7m subscriptions, now generating 10% of consumer revenue. The launch of our digital platform will offer customers an enhanced subscriptions capability with improved choice and flexibility.
- Launched our new unified Pets brand, bringing together all of our products and services under one master brand reflecting our consumer positioning as a provider of all your pet care needs.
- Accelerated range innovation, introducing new frozen ranges, launching an own brand freeze-dried range, and exclusively partnering with Butternut Box to offer freshly-cooked dog food to consumers.
- Progressed our sustainability agenda, reducing our Scope 1 & 2 emissions by a further 3.5%, raising over £9.2m for pet charities, feeding 2.7m pets for a day through our pet food bank partnership with Blue Cross, and donating over 16,000 hours to local communities.

Financial Highlights
- Consumer revenue grew 6.9%, in line with our medium-term ambition, to £1.9bn. Underlying consumer demand was resilient with structural trends underpinning sustained market growth.
- Total Group revenue growth of 5.2% to £1.5bn, with Group like-for-like# (LFL) revenue up 5.1%.
- Vet Group revenue grew 16.8%, and LFL# up 16.5%, with record sales supported by higher Average Transaction Value, mix and visits as we increased clinical capacity.
- Retail revenue grew 4.0%, and LFL# up 4.1%. Q4 LFL was in line with expectations with continued volume growth and slowing inflation in food, and softer performance within accessories.
- Underlying PBT of £132.0m is down 3.2% YoY as guided, impacted by short-term availability issues as we transitioned to our new DC and weaker performance of discretionary accessories. Returning accessories to growth is a key focus in the year ahead and we have a strong plan to do so.
- Statutory PBT was £105.7m, down 13.7% reflecting the decline in underlying PBT and non-underlying costs of £26.3m, mostly associated with our DC transition and our support office consolidation.
- Underlying basic EPS was 20.7p, down 9.0%, and statutory basic EPS was 16.6p, down 19.0%.
- Total dividend per share held at 12.8p, final dividend held at 8.3p.
- Free cash flow# down 29.7% to £69.0m reflecting YoY profit shape and the phasing of investments.
- Balance sheet remains robust with net cash# of £8.8m (before lease liabilities of £380.9m). Cash and cash equivalents were £57.1m at the end of the year.
- £25m share buyback announced for FY25, having completed £100m in buybacks over last 2 years.
Current trading and outlook
No change to FY25 underlying PBT guidance. Whilst the external trading environment has been subdued, overall pet care spend has proven resilient, and in the year ahead, we should begin to benefit from previous investments and key productivity programs.
Over the first 6 weeks of the year, we have seen low double-digit growth in our Vet Group, with Retail at -2%, broadly in line with plan. Retail LFL currently reflects the annualization of our strongest comparative periods, and some short term disruption as we transitioned to our new digital app from the legacy web platform. We are currently projecting that these impacts will ease from Q2 onwards.
Market growth in recent quarters has been impacted by easing inflation, continued caution amongst consumers, and the timing impacts of normalised numbers of new puppies and kittens. Importantly through this period we have consistently won share in our key food category, and are currently expecting industry growth to progressively return closer to historic levels over the coming quarters.
For FY25:
- We are comfortable with current analyst consensus for underlying PBT, currently c£144m.
- We expect non-underlying costs of c£7m reflecting further transition costs for the DC (£3m) and one-off support office restructuring costs (£4m).
- Effective tax rate is expected to be 26%.
- Plan for capex of £60m.
- Planning for a further £25m share buyback, following the £100m completed over the last 2 years.
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See all new product launches from 300+ exhibitors at PATS

The largest-ever PATS show being held at Telford International Centre from Sunday, 29th September to Tuesday, 1st October 2024 will be the only place this year to see all the new pet and aquatics products to be launched in the UK...

The largest-ever PATS show being held at Telford International Centre from Sunday, 29th September to Tuesday, 1st October 2024 will be the only place this year to see all the new pet and aquatics products to be launched in the UK.
PATS 2024 – the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show is THE event where the whole industry meets under one roof with more than 300 exhibitors showcasing their products in four packed halls.
It’s the perfect opportunity for pet and aquatic retailers and garden centres to decide what products to stock over the next year with thousands of items being exhibited, many of which are new launches.
“There will be so much to see and do over the three days of the show,” said organiser Gordon Thomas. “Visitors can be sure of meeting all of the leading brands as well as many new ones. And there will be an international flavour to the show with companies from across mainland Europe and beyond choosing to book a stand and unveil their latest creations.”
Exhibitors from Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland and Turkey, will be joining their counterparts from the UK and Ireland to make PATS 2024 a truly international show. There will also be exhibitors from as far afield as Canada, China, USA, Hong Kong, New Zealand and Thailand.
The first-ever three-day PATS will be hosted across the entire venue in all four halls, and will see the launch of the much-anticipated Aquatics Zone, where aquatics and watergardening companies will be exhibiting their products and services in one dedicated hall.

Seeing the latest launches under one roof is one of the major attractions to PATS visitors, and this year’s show is set to unveil a record number of new products. An already impressive line-up of entries to the popular New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews, is a positive sign that PATS exhibitors are excited about their latest products and can’t wait to show them to visiting retailers and buyers.
Products entered into the Showcase will be judged by a panel of independent retailers on the first day of the show (Sunday, 29th September) to decide the winners of the New Product Awards.
The New Starter Zone, supported by PetQuip with media partner PPM, has been one of the most exciting additions to the show in recent years, with start-up companies taking advantage of the dedicated area in Hall 3 to launch their product ranges, and this year’s Zone is larger than ever.
As well as seeing an unrivalled array of new products and speaking to the major suppliers and manufacturers, visitors will also be able to experience demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers.
To help make the visitor experience even more enjoyable and rewarding, PATS Telford offers free show entry, free parking for up to 1,300 vehicles, a free catalogue and many special deals. There will also be a wide range of food options available, with visitors receiving a complimentary tea/coffee voucher.
Register now at www.patshow.co.uk where a full list of exhibitors can also be found.
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HOWND, pioneers of cruelty-free certified plant-based products for dogs, is launching a selection of its hypoallergenic soft-baked functional Wellness Treats in Pets at Home stores and online this summer.
With a focus on promoting overall wellbeing, HOWND Wellness treats are nutrition-packed and hypoallergenic to suit sensitive tummies. Three flavours, in fully recyclable packaging, will be available from August 5th in Pets at Home: Keep Calm with Camomile, Lavender and Valerian Root for stress relief; Got an Itch? with Shiitake Mushrooms and Turmeric for healthy skin & coat; and Yup You Stink! with Mint, Parsley and Lovage herbs to tackle smelly breath.
“We’re delighted to have HOWND plant powered wellness treats listed in Pets at Home as a healthy meat alternative snack for dogs,” said Jo Amit, Product Director. “With our commitment to innovation and the well-being of all animals, HOWND continues to raise the bar in the pet industry.”

HOWND Wellness Treats are accredited by the Vegetarian (Vegan) Society, PETA Not Tested on Animals, and the Ethical Company Organisation.Each plant-powered recipe is free from soya, wheat, gluten GMO and animal derived ingredients. RRP £2.95.
HOWND Wellness Treats won the coveted gold for Food/Treats Product of the Year at the PetQuip Awards last September. The product range was chosen by a select group of independent UK retailers and was up against 45 other brand finalists from the pet sector.
HOWND has a single mission: to harness the boundless potential of plants to improve the health and wellbeing of dogs, Since 2015, HOWND has evolved into a multi award-winning ethical lifestyle brand for dogs in the UK and overseas. The company was named as one of the most ethical businesses in the world by The Good Shopping Guide in January 2024, emerging top dog in categories such as environmental impact, animal welfare, and public record with a score of 98/100. The prestigious list of the Top 200 Ethical Companies and Brands recognised HOWND's commitment to positive ethical practices as they were independently certified through Ethical Accreditation by The Good Shopping Guide. HOWND plant-based nutritionally complete dog food has been included in the Food Tech 500 final ranking by Forward Fooding two years running.
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Kennelpak joins forces with US-based pet toy expert
Kennelpak, the pet specialist wholesaler, brand owner and distributor, has announced a distributor agreement with leading US-based premium pet products manufacturer, 3TBrands, to supply two of its best-selling, ultra safety-focused brands for the UK’s thriving dog toy and accessory category.

Kennelpak, the pet specialist wholesaler, brand owner and distributor, has announced a distributor agreement with leading US-based premium pet products manufacturer, 3TBrands, to supply two of its best-selling, ultra safety-focused brands for the UK’s thriving dog toy and accessory category.
Leveraging the ongoing trend of humanising pets, with pet parents prioritising the safety, wellbeing and happiness of their beloved companions, this new partnership sees independent pet retailers and pet parents in the UK gain access to 3TBrands’ premium dog toys and beds. With its 90-year heritage of manufacturing baby products to the highest safety standards, the introduction of 3TBrands’ best-selling Tall Tails and Original Territory pet brands will create a compelling safety and durability-focused proposition for the UK market.
The new partnership will see Kennelpak introduce Tall Tails and Original Territory safety focused, pet products including balls, plush and occupier toys, as well as a range of beds. Delivering “A Toy for Every Tail™” and “Bedding for all Dreamers™”, the new product lineup includes the award-winning Tall Tails’ ‘Gold Standard’ Yeti Plush Dog Toy, comforting Cuddle bed, Animated and Sport Dog collections and Original Territory’s squeak, fetch, tug and award-winning 2-in-1 toys.
The addition of these safety-focused brands to its carefully curated portfolio of owned and global brands confirms Kennelpak’s position as the go-to distributor and wholesaler in the UK for quality pet products that support dogs and owners on their pet parenting journey.
Family-owned 3TBrands’ extensive experience in manufacturing baby products to stringent safety standards, including nursery bedding, plush toys and accessories, is extended to pet families. The company goes above and beyond industry standards using its own testing protocol based on child product safety requirements including the ATSM F963, similar to the British Toy Safety Standard BS EN 71, as a foundation to guide its pet product development and testing protocols.
3TBrands ensures the durability of its products through its choice of materials and designs as well as its manufacturing techniques using, for example, a layer of double-reinforced mesh on the inside of all plush toys and natural rubber rather than synthetic for its crosslink molecular structure that is harder to penetrate.
All of 3TBrands’ products are then rigorously tested at globally accredited independent laboratories, and last, but not least, the products are put through their paces with a vast network of dog testers, from small and giant, to gentle, powerful and enthusiastic dogs to rubber stamp durability.
Commenting on the announcement, Kennelpak Chief Executive Officer, Claire Bayliss, said: “Celebrating 50 years of pet sector expertise, our continued success in selling distributor partner products makes us a natural choice for global brands looking to sell into the UK market. We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with 3TBrands to bring these exciting and innovative dog toys and accessories ranges to pet parents this side of the Atlantic. 3TBrands’ heritage in baby and child accessories manufacturing, now applied to pet care, offers a distinctive and compelling proposition for UK pet retailers.”
Joel Kaplan, President & CEO, 3TBrands said: “We are delighted to partner with Kennelpak to bring our brands, Tall Tails and Original Territory, to independent retailers and pet parents across the UK. Kennelpak has an excellent reputation within the UK pet industry and the addition of our extensive range of pet beds, toys and accessories enhances their offering to retailers looking to enhance the lives of pets and their owners through innovative products and exceptional customer service. We look forward to bringing our products with their outstanding emphasis on safety and durability, to local businesses and pet parents across the UK."
This latest announcement follows hot on the heels of Kennelpak’s agreement with Primal Pet Group to distribute leading US brands, Himalayan Pet Supply and Yellow Yak to drive further growth in the UK natural occupier dog chew category and enables its further expansion into the dog toy and accessory market.
The new products are available in the UK from June 2024.
For more information about Kennelpak visit Kennelpak.co.uk
For more information about 3TBrands visit www.talltailsdog.com and www.territorypet.com
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Veterinary PR and marketing agency Companion Consultancy has become employee-owned, 22 years after the agency was set up by founder and vet Susan McKay.
The agency will now be owned by an Employee Ownership Trust on behalf of all its employees.
The agency has also appointed two veterinary surgeons and currently Senior Account Managers at the agency, Fi Farmer and Katy Ellison to the Board of Directors from July. Senior Account Manager Jenny Langridge becomes a Trustee Director, representing the interests of employees on the Trust Board.
As this transition unfolds, Susan will gradually reduce her involvement in day-to-day operations but remains a Director on the Board and a Trustee Director for the Trust.
She said: “I’m delighted that this change rewards our hard-working team, delivering long term stability and continuity, while also enabling them to help steer our future. Our new Directors ensure that leadership of the agency remains in the hands of the veterinary profession and I know that both will hold true to our values, respecting the many long standing relationships we have within veterinary and pet communities.”
Complementing its core services across PR, marketing and digital, Companion Consultancy has expanded its reach over the last decade through sister brands Veterinary Woman and Companion Design Studio which blends graphic and multimedia design and veterinary expertise. Veterinary Woman continues to work to champion female leadership and to raise awareness of issues such as menopause and equal opportunity within the veterinary profession with a following in excess of 17,000.
Employee Ownership Trusts have proved to be an increasingly popular model with veterinary practices according to Baxendale Employee Ownership, the consultancy who supported the agency through the transition.
Katy Ellison said: “Employee ownership gives everyone a stake in the future of the company. We have a fantastic team at Companion Consultancy and it is exciting to know that everyone can share in our collective success, while also ensuring our high standards and commitment to our clients stay strong well into the future.”
Fi Farmer commented: “We are all extremely proud of the work we do at Companion Consultancy and share our thanks to Susan, not only for the way she has led the company over the past 22 years, but for her decision to hand the reins over in this way. Moving forward as an employee ownership is a perfect fit for our dedicated team, and we are all looking forward to the future.”
Susan McKay added: “I am so very proud of the business I’ve been able to create with the dedicated and talented individuals I work with every day. Knowing that our clients can also continue to work with Companion Consultancy decades from now is really exciting.”
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Fast-growing pet retail chain Jollyes has announced that owners of King Charles Spaniels and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels will be eligible for a free groom in honour of the monarch’s official birthday.
The limited-time offer, which ordinarily starts at £15 for small dogs, will be available at selected Jollyes Groomers and Spas throughout the month of June.
Grooming services are carefully carried out by Jollyes’ expert teams, and include: a gentle shampoo bath followed by a brush and tidy up; deshedding, dematting, and trimming fur and nails; plus optional extras such as a magic mud treatment or a fragrant spritz of dog cologne.
Owners are eligible for one free groom during June. Appointments are limited so Jollyes advises that anybody who wants to give their pooch the paw-fect groom should book in advance to avoid disappointment.
In 2023 Jollyes launched a similar free grooming service which was available to King Charles Spaniels in celebration of the King’s Coronation. This year the offer has been expanded to include Cavalier King Charles Spaniels which, although often mistaken for King Charles Spaniels, are very much their own distinctive breed.
Jollyes retail director, Craig Smith, said: “What better way for Jollyes to recognise the King’s official birthday than with this offer for King Charles Spaniels and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels?
“As owners of these historic breeds know, these are really special pets. A free groom is not just a way for us to celebrate the King’s official birthday, it also allows us to provide a valuable and convenient service to our customers who want to do something special for their furry friends.”
King Charles Spaniels are also known as English Toy Spaniels, and The Kennel Club initially intended for this to be the breed’s official name. However, according to the Kennel Club, King Edward VII wanted to maintain the royal connection to the breed, so King Charles Spaniel became the official title. King Charles and Cavalier Spaniels were shown as one breed until 1945 when The Kennel Club recognised them as two separate breeds.
The Cavalier King Charles changed dramatically in the late seventeenth century, when it was inter-bred with flat-nosed breeds. Until the 1920s, it shared the same history as the smaller King Charles Spaniel. Breeders attempted to recreate what they considered to be the original configuration — a dog resembling Charles II's spaniel of the English Civil War period, when supporters of the king were known as Cavaliers.
Find out which Jollyes stores are offering the free grooming service here.
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Nova Dog Chews is a leading provider of high-quality dog chews and treats. Committed to the well-being of pets, they offer a wide range of delicious and nutritious products that pets love. Their dedication to excellence has led to remarkable growth and an ever-expanding product range, making them a trusted choice for pet owners worldwide.
They have recently launched two new products: Bone Broth and Sauce. These products are 100% natural and a great way to boost your pet’s hydration and enrichment. The products are rich in collagen, chondroitin and glucosamine, which aid to lubricate and reduce inflammation in joints, promote glossy fur, soft skin and strong nails.

The Sauce comes in 4 flavours: Duck, Lamb, Chicken and Beef. Each of them comes in a 100ml pouch and have between 17 - 25 calories per 100ml depending on the flavour. They are high in collagen with the content being 11600mg to 2110mg per 100ml. Sauces are great to use as a topper to spoil or increase your pet’s appetite, they are great to add to homemade treats and lick mats, making them the perfect healthy snack. The RRP for the Sauce is £2.50.

The Bone Broth also comes in 4 flavours: Moose, Duck, Chicken and Beef. Each comes in a 230ml pouch and has between 9 - 12 calories per 100ml depending on the flavour. It is cooked for at least 12 hours to separate the useful parts of the bone (collagen) and enabling the removal of fat, making the broth low in calories with zero fat. Bone Broth is great to increase your pet’s fluid levels especially on hot days. You can pour the Broth into dry, wet or raw food. You can also freeze the Broth to create cooling treats for your pets. The RRP for the Bone Broth is £3.60 for Chicken and Beef, and £3.99 for Moose and Duck.
“We are very excited to launch our new Bone Broths and Sauces in time for the summer,” says Antoon Murphy, Joint Managing Director. “The products offer significant health benefits and come in 4 tasty flavours. Ideal for fussy eaters or dogs who don’t drink enough water.”
For more information, visit www.novadogchews.com or contact: info@novadogchews.com
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Pet Abduction Bill becomes law

Legislation to make pet abduction a criminal offence has received Royal Assent. Under the Pet Abduction Act 2024 anyone found guilty of stealing a pet in England or Northern Ireland will face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both...

Legislation to make pet abduction a criminal offence has received Royal Assent.
Under the Pet Abduction Act 2024 – which was a Private Members’ Bill sponsored by Anna Firth MP and Lord Black of Brentwood and supported by the Government – anyone found guilty of stealing a pet in England or Northern Ireland will face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.
The new law recognises that cats and dogs are not inanimate objects but sentient beings capable of experiencing distress and other emotional trauma when they are stolen from their owners or keepers.
Evidence from the Pet Theft Taskforce suggests around 2,000 dog and over 400 cat theft crimes were reported to police in 2020, causing considerable distress for owners and their pets alike. With an estimated 28% of UK adults owning a dog and 24% owning a cat, pet theft is a major concern to the public.
Support for the Act builds upon wider action to protect pets from theft, including making the microchipping of cats compulsory from 10 June 2024. This makes it easier for lost, stray or stolen pets to be reunited with their owners and returned home safely.
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PetQuip offers VIP treatment at SUPERZOO
The trade association is promoting a package of show benefits for UK retail buyers, to help make the most of their time SUPERZOO, taking place from 14 to 16 August in Las Vegas.

With SUPERZOO, taking place from 14 to 16 August in Las Vegas, being billed as ‘the ultimate destination for pet retailers from around the world’, this comprehensive marketplace offers retailers the chance to discover proven bestsellers, explore business solutions and catch up with the latest US pet trends and innovations.
The event showcases over 1,100 exhibitors, thousands of new product debuts and hosts over 10,000 buyers.
PetQuip will have a stand at the show, hosting a selection of member products and UK market information. The trade association is also promoting a package of show benefits for UK retail buyers, to help make the most of their time at the event.
The special PetQuip VIP invitation allows buyers to take advantage of the following benefits:
- Complimentary registration for the exhibition hall, with show-only discounts
- Complimentary 2-day education pass (valued at $250)
- Personalised assistance with registration and meeting setup with US exhibitors
- Access to the International Lounge and on-site amenities, including an option to reserve meeting space
- Entry to SUPERZOO’s exclusive and legendary Beach Party on Thursday 15 August, from 7-10 pm
- Use of the PetQuip stand 5010 as a base and for help and advice
“We are really excited to be working with the SUPERZOO organisers for the first time, to test the water for our members at this lively, innovative event. We also welcome UK buyers visiting the show to use our stand as a base, while enjoying the fabulous VIP benefits which the organisers are offering,” commented Susan Fairley, Trade Federation Manager for PetQuip. PetQuip will be exhibiting on stand 5010.
To benefit from the VIP programme, buyers should register for SUPERZOO here
For more information, contact Susan Fairley at susan@petquip.com
For details of PetQuip membership, please e-mail info@petquip.com or visit www.petquip.com
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PAWD DRINKS, a new revolutionary and groundbreaking range of liquid health supplements, has been nominated for a PIF Innovation Award.
These products are the result of extensive research and development by world-leading animal nutritionists including Dr. Farshad Goodarzi Boroojeni and are veterinary-approved. Each formula has been carefully crafted to not only address specific health concerns but also contribute to the overall well-being of our four-legged friends.
PAWD DRINKS are the inspiration of founders and London-based Rory Hanna and Archie Wilson who met at school and went on to become business partners. The idea for the drinks came from Rory’s family dog, Scrumpy, a Jack Russell / Patterdale Terrier that lived to 17, and despite remaining fairly healthy and loving life, he did from time to time face common health issues prone to dogs such as arthritis and anxiety.
“Scrumpy refused to take pills however hard we tried to hide them in his food, and this put the idea into my head that there must be a better way to administer supplements” says Rory. “Liquids are the most efficient and effective way of transporting vitamins, minerals, and nutrients into a body, whether it is human or dog. The balance between food and drink in the human world is pretty even, whereas in the dog world, it is very uneven, and this needs to change!”
PAWD DRINKS Joints has been formulated to address arthritis and joint mobility with up to 80% of all dogs suffering from some form of arthritis over the age of 8. PAWD DRINKS Joints contains natural ingredients, such as ginger and devil’s claw root to support joint mobility.
Studies also suggest that up to 70% of dogs exhibit anxiety-related behaviours at some point in their lives. This anxiety can be in the form of separation anxiety, social anxiety, travel anxiety or noise anxiety. Approximately 50% of dogs show significant fear or anxiety in response to loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks.. PAWD DRINKS Calming will help to relax and soothe your dog in any anxious situations.
PAWD DRINKS are pH neutral and contain no acidifiers or preservatives. They are easy to consume and administer and are fast and efficient. They provide full hydration for your dogs, contain 100% natural ingredients, are low cost per portion and are loved by dogs.
For further information visit www.pawddrinks.com
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Many independent retailers across the UK faced a difficult start to 2024 according to a new survey by Bira, the British Independent Retailers Association and the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT)
The associations' first Heartbeat survey asked members about their trading performance in the first quarter of 2024 (January to March) compared to the previous quarter (Q4 2023) and the same period in 2023.
It also gauged confidence levels for Q2 2024 and the full year, as well as the impact of the national minimum wage (NMW) increase in April.
Bira, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, found that 46.5% of respondents said their Q1 2024 trading was somewhat or much worse than Q4 2023. However, over a third (35.6%) reported somewhat or much better performance versus the previous quarter.
Year-on-year, the picture was more mixed, with 35% saying Q1 2024 was somewhat or much better than Q1 2023, but 46% reporting somewhat or much worse results compared to the same period last year.
Looking ahead, confidence for Q2 2024 is relatively low, with 42.6% feeling somewhat or highly unconfident about April to June. Just 27.8% are somewhat or highly confident, while 29.7% are neutral.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "These findings highlight the challenges facing many of our independent retail members as they navigate rising costs and economic pressures. The increase to the national minimum wage in April has been a further strain, with over a third saying it has negatively impacted their business.
"Additionally, nearly a quarter have been forced to reduce staff hours or headcount as a result of the higher wage floor. However, we were encouraged that over a third of members still managed to grow their sales in Q1 2024 versus the previous year, but margins have been squeezed due to increased business costs and wage increases.
"With confidence for Q2 and the full year remaining subdued, we will continue supporting our members through these tough trading conditions. Nurturing vibrant independent retail communities is vital for strengthening local economies across Britain," he added.
The survey data also indicated that 32.4% of respondents had experienced higher-paid staff asking for pay rises following the NMW increase, while 19.6% do not employ anyone on the minimum wage.
Mr Goodacre added that with the General Election now being called for July 4, will make for an interesting few months ahead for traders across the country, but has called for all parties to have the high street focus in mind when looking at their plans for change in 2024.
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New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) which investigated heatstroke in UK dogs has found a strong correlation between the occurrence of these episodes in dogs and heatwaves in the UK.
Researchers therefore suggest that heat-health alerts designed for humans should also be used as a tool for owners to protect their dogs from heat-related illnesses.
Heatstroke is a largely preventable but often fatal condition for dogs, occurring when a dog’s core body temperature increases to the point where it can no longer manage to reduce the temperature to a safe level by natural mechanisms such as panting or moving to a cooler area. The resulting hyperthermia can lead to systemic inflammation, organ dysfunction and eventually death if not treated urgently and effectively. With climate change now causing some of the hottest years on record, there is growing concern about the rising risk of heat-related deaths in both humans and animals.
The new study, led by Sian Beard, a Masters in Research student at the RVC and part of the VetCompass Programme, set out to explore the factors associated with incidents of heat-related illnesses in dogs. The research, supported by Dogs Trust, analysed 167,751 anonymised UK emergency care veterinary records from 2022 and investigated the 384 cases of heatstroke identified in dogs.
The findings show that 59.64% of the overall annual heatstroke cases occurred during just 40 days that comprised the five heatwave periods of 2022. The most commonly cited reasons for triggering heat-related illnesses were exercise (51.46% of cases), hot environment (31.02% of cases) and hot vehicles (12.41%).
The researchers concluded that the current system of heat-health alert days reported by the UK Health Security Agency was also hugely predictive of heatstroke in dogs, with five times as many cases of heatstroke per day during the five heat periods of 2022, compared with other summer days that did not have heat-health alerts issued. The study highlights that extra caution should be employed by dog owners during UK heat-health alerts and they should avoid exposing their dogs to known heatstroke triggers such as exercise or car travel on these days.
Other research findings from the study included:
- 26.56% of the dogs with heatstroke died.
- Nearly half (48.7%) of the dogs with heatstroke were dog breeds with flat faces. Flat-faced dog breeds were four times more likely to develop heatstroke than normal-faced dogs.
- The seven breeds at significantly increased risk of heatstroke were Newfoundland, Chow Chow, English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Pug, Pomeranian and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
- Dogs aged 4 to 6 and 8 to 10 years had a significantly greater risk of heat-related illnesses compared to dogs under 2 years old.
- Male dogs had a significantly greater risk of heat-related illnesses compared to female dogs.
Sian Beard, MRes student at the RVC, said: “As heatwaves increase in frequency and severity due to climate change, we need to prevent our dogs from suffering heatstroke. Heatstroke is often a preventable condition, and we urge all dog owners, particularly those who own a flat-faced or double-coated dog breed, to be vigilant. We recommend avoiding known triggers such as exercise with pets over the summer period, especially during heat-health alerts.”
Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust, said: “Dogs Trust is delighted to have supported this research which gives clear indicators of risk factor for heatstroke in dogs. Using heat-health alerts is an innovative way to help dog owners keep their dogs safe and avoid this life-threatening condition.”
Owners can help prevent heat stroke in their dogs by ensuring they have access to a cool shaded area; restricting exercise in hot weather; packing a water bottle on walks; never leaving them in a hot car or hot room; ensuring drinking water is always available; and making sure their pet is regularly groomed if this is advised for their breed. Owners can also support their dog by learning how to recognise early signs of overheating (including excessive panting, reluctance to move, drooling, red gums or tongue, and vomiting or diarrhoea) so they can take action to limit disease severity and progression.
Additionally, the RVC advises “cool first, transport second” as the immediate first aid response for dogs which do develop heatstroke. Owners worried their dog has overheated should:
- Take their dog somewhere cool, ideally a well-ventilated area (or use a fan)
- Offer them small sips of water (do not force them to drink)
- Pour water of any temperature that is cooler than the dog over them (avoiding the head) and combine with air movement from a breeze, fan, or air conditioning
- Once these steps have been started, call the vets who will be able to advise further. Even if the pet seems to be okay, it’s important to have them checked (unless told otherwise), as the more serious signs of heatstroke may not be immediately apparent.
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Bellylabs, a global forerunner in the innovative at-home testing of dogs, proudly announces the appointment of Annika Lundström as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective June 10th, 2024.
With over a decade of invaluable experience in the pet industry, Annika Lundström brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. Having served as the Head of Category and Sourcing at Musti Group, one of Europe's premier pet specialty retail chains, Annika played a pivotal role in the success story of the organization. Her extensive international commercial background, proven track record of strategic leadership, and skills in assortment management make her the ideal candidate to lead Bellylabs into its next phase of growth and innovation.
Prior to joining Bellylabs, Annika served as the Head of Category Management at Wolt, a subsidiary of the Nasdaq stock exchange listed Doordash. Her tenure at Wolt further solidified Annika’s reputation as a visionary leader with a deep understanding of market dynamics, partner relations, category management and consumer trends.
Commenting on Annika Lundström's appointment, the Chairman of the Board of Bellylabs, Timo Helosuo stated, "We are extremely pleased to welcome Annika onboard. Her exceptional leadership skills and international pet industry expertise will be instrumental in driving Bellylabs forward as we continue to expand our global footprint and enhance our product offerings."
Simultaneously, the company expressed its gratitude to outgoing CEO and Co-Founder, Jarno Kukila, for his contributions over the past seven years. Under Jarno's guidance, Bellylabs has evolved from a mere concept into a thriving international enterprise. The Board extends its best wishes to Jarno as he embarks on new ventures.
Annika Lundström will officially assume her duties as CEO on June 10th, 2024, and can be reached at annika@belly-labs.com for further inquiries.
For media inquiries or interview requests, please email at: hello@belly-labs.com
For more information about Bellylabs, visit: www.belly-labs.com
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Build Up! beats the competition
Since its launch legions of dogs have been reaping the benefits of CSJ’s Cani Supps – the range of high performing, vegan friendly, canine supplements...

Since its launch legions of dogs have been reaping the benefits of CSJ’s Cani Supps – the range of high performing, vegan friendly, canine supplements.
One in particular – Build Up! – is certainly helping to beat the competition for show and working dog owners as a high energy supplement to promote physical well-being and overall appearance of their dogs.
It’s also ideal for older dogs, those in rehabilitation, pre-operative and post-operative and young growing dogs, since it supports muscle health and function, promotes physical well-being and overall appearance and is a great source of Gamma Oryzacol and antioxidants.
Build Up! is composed of Refined Rice Bran Oil, and the tiny daily dose (e.g. 2ml for medium dogs of 10-25kg) is simply added to the dog’s usual food.
Whether you have a dog competing in hot competition, or just needing a boost in mid-season it makes sense to build them up, doesn’t it?
For more on CSJ products visit www.csjk9.com or call 01745710470
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The best of last edition of Pet Trade Xtra
The top-read stories from last week's Pet Trade Xtra can be seen below, if you missed them...
Johnson’s launches first-ever National Pet Shop Day
Johnson’s Veterinary Products has launched the first-ever National Pet Shop Day – an event to mark the ongoing contribution of pet shops within the local community and to celebrate their services, knowledge, and experience. It will take place on Saturday, 13th July 2024...

Johnson’s Veterinary Products has launched the first-ever National Pet Shop Day – an event to mark the ongoing contribution of pet shops within the local community and to celebrate their services, knowledge, and experience.
National Pet Shop Day will take place on Saturday, 13th July 2024 when pet stores across the UK will be encouraged to throw open their doors and invite pet owners to come in and discover more about the services and products they offer.
When Johnson’s surveyed pet owners as part of its 2023 report into UK purchasing habits, it discovered that over half of respondents (57%) would prefer to speak to the vet in order to remedy a pet’s flea issue, despite the majority stating they find their pet shops and pet shops to be ‘knowledgeable’ and with an opinion that could be trusted.
Pet shops are often, in fact, the local health and wellbeing hubs of the pet world, and can provide practical advice and solutions for commonly occurring minor ailments (such as fleas, ticks, worms or general healthcare issues) – providing animal lovers with the confidence to know they are handling their pet’s conditions effectively and efficiently.
With National Pet Shop Day, Johnson’s wants to encourage the public to rediscover their local pet shop, and mark the ongoing, positive contribution pet shops and stores make to society. And in doing so, together we will look to stimulate new customer trial, increase footfall, and encourage repeat purchase.
A spokesperson for the company said: “For over 100 years Johnson’s has been working hard to support the pet trade, recognising the importance that pet shops and pet stores have within their communities.
“Pet owners have been relying on the dedicated, one-to-one support provided by their local pet shop for generations, and we feel that this commitment to improving the wellbeing of the nation’s pets (and their owners) is something worth celebrating.”
Johnson’s will be undertaking extensive media outreach in the run-up to National Pet Shop Day to promote the benefits of visiting a pet shop for common minor pet ailments, so there will already be noise generated that pet shops can capitalise on.
Johnson’s has also launched a dedicated website www.nationalpetshopday.com, crammed with promotional ideas, downloadable content, branded goodies, and practical advice to help retailers celebrate the day to its fullest.
On the website, retailers will soon be able to find:
- A PR & Social Media Toolkit that will include helpful articles and templates that will offer guidance on how pet shops can maximise presence and encourage engagement in the run-up to and during the day itself.
- An interactive Map highlighting all the pet shops that are planning National Pet Shop Day activities, which Johnson’s will then cross promote in its own communications. All pet shops will need to do is share their events on social media using the hashtags #NationalPetShopDay and #PetShopDayUK, or email us the details.
- Downloadable infographics, photographs, logos, and activity sheets
- Promotional items order section. We plan, as standard, to supply a basic promo package to all retailers who register their intention to participate on the website, but additional items will also be available for purchase via the website. The basic promo bundle will include: Two sizes of promotional poster; branded recyclable carrier bags; promo stickers; flyers and balloons.
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PATS 2024 smashes through 300-exhibitor mark
PATS 2024 – the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show taking place at Telford International Centre from Sunday 29th September to Tuesday 1st October 2024 – has smashed through the 300-exhibitor mark, making it the biggest event in the show’s 16-year history...

PATS 2024 – the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show taking place at Telford International Centre from Sunday 29th September to Tuesday 1st October 2024 – has smashed through the 300-exhibitor mark, making it the biggest event in the show’s 16-year history.
Stand space at the three-day show is almost sold out, with only two stands remaining, as UK and international pet companies get set to take over all four exhibition halls at the Telford International Centre.
“The demand for stand space at PATS has been phenomenal, with many companies booking much larger stands as they seek to take advantage of the new three-day format,” said organiser Gordon Thomas, of Impact Exhibitions and Events.
“With the addition of the Aquatics Zone and a bigger New Starter Zone, the exhibition will cover the whole of the Telford International Centre, and now we have smashed the 300-exhibitor mark it will be the biggest PATS show ever.”
PATS recently exhibited at Interzoo in Nuremberg, Germany, as international interest in the show returns after the Covid pandemic.
“We met lots of European distributors and retailers at Interzoo,” added Gordon. “We also saw international buyers from as far afield as the US and Australia. Interest in the UK pet market seems to be returning after a difficult couple of years.”
PATS is currently working closely with trade association PetQuip on a programme to identify key European pet product buyers and distributors to invite them to visit PATS.
With registration for visitors now open on the exhibition’s new-look website www.patshow.co.uk, Gordon is urging pet retailers and buyers to sign up for their free entry.
Rosewood Pet Products is thrilled by the prospect of exhibiting at PATS. Senior brand manager Kate Burnett said: “We can't wait to unveil our latest product developments and share the evolution of our brand. As passionate pet lovers, connecting with fellow enthusiasts at PATS is a highlight for us.”
Albion Pet Foods sees PATS as an opportunity to raise the company’s profile in the industry as well as showcase its latest products. “The Albion team is delighted to have a stand at PATS this year and is looking forward to the three-day event,” said director Gill Bower. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase our brand and products plus also meet other exhibitors and see what new products are around. Although Albion has been going for over 40 years, most people have never heard of it, so I think PATS will be a great opportunity to get our name out there – and hopefully more business.”
With a record-breaking number of exhibitors, PATS 2024 will also feature its biggest ever New Product Showcase of pet, aquatic and watergardening products. All entries will be judged by an independent panel of retailers and retail experts to determine the winners of the New Product Awards, sponsored by pbwnews.
As an increasing number of pet retailers introduce pet grooming salons into their stores, the PATS programme of talks, demos, workshops and competitions will provide invaluable insights into this side of the business.
To make the visitor experience even more exciting there will be unrivalled show offers and competitions, fantastic networking opportunities, a free show catalogue, free parking for up to 1,300 cars and a complimentary tea/coffee voucher.
You can register online at www.patshow.co.uk where you’ll also find a full list of exhibitors and information on how to reach the venue.
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The Pet Industry Federation has announced that market research firm NielsenIQ (NIQ) will join the speaker line-up at its forthcoming Business of Pets conference.
Expertise and Consulting Director, Hannah Lyford, will deliver an insights presentation on the state of the UK FMCG marketplace, with a specific focus on how changing shopper behaviour will influence the pet industry. Hearing from NIQ will prove beneficial for those in the industry as they are uniquely positioned to provide both retailer sales metrics and consumer behaviour insights, creating the full view of the marketplace enabling clients to shape successful FMCG marketing strategies.
Delegates will hear Hannah talk about how inflation and the increased cost of living is impacting households with pets, how the key trends we are seeing in the retail environment, including online, are impacting shoppers and how evolution of shopper missions and FMCG trends impact the pet industry. All powered by NIQ data.
The two-day conference, headline sponsored by Worldpay, is aimed at fostering growth in pet businesses and will centre on innovation, finance, and marketing. The programme features a comprehensive lineup of expert speakers and networking opportunities, with an evening BBQ scheduled for the end of the first day. It will take place from Wednesday 5 to Thursday 6 June at the Cranfield Management Development Centre, Cranfield University, Milton Keynes.
Nigel Baker, CEO of PIF, said: “We are delighted that Hannah will join us at our Business of Pets conference. Understanding the key trends in pet owner buying habits is crucial for pet businesses to develop strategies which deliver products and services that pet owners really want. NIQ’s session will form part of a full programme of talks aimed at pet businesses that have big ambitions. Cranfield University, with its remote working facilities, great networking links and onsite accommodation, provides the ideal backdrop for our conference.”
Full details on the speakers and all other information, including ticket purchases and accommodation, can be found at https://petfederation.co.uk/the-business-of-pets-conference/
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