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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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