The Animal Focused Alliance – the UK trade association for pet professionals – has been recognised at the highest level, with founder Vicky Skinner invited to 11 Downing Street for a reception hosted by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, celebrating the contribution of the UK’s 5.7 million small businesses to the economy, society and communities.

Vicky attended the special event which brought together recent winners and finalists of The Small Awards. This annual awards showcase is organised by Small Business Britain and celebrates the UK’s ‘smallest and greatest’ businesses.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “Small businesses are the backbone of Britain’s economy and it’s a privilege to celebrate them at Downing Street today. I know how important it is to help make conditions better for small businesses to thrive, and with our Small Business Plan we’re helping cut red tape, give access to finance, cut bills and ensure employees have the skills they need.

“We have the right economic plan, through stability, investment and reform we are building a stronger Britain.”

The event featured an array of over 80 small businesses, from micro-businesses and family businesses, to start-ups and high-street heroes.

The Alliance, which was founded in May 2025, was a finalist for the New Kid on the Block Award for best business start-up title, an award which commends businesses that started in the last eighteen months and have demonstrated considerable progress to grow and develop.

Launched to support pet businesses of every kind,  from dog walkers, groomers and home boarders to catteries and animal encounter providers,  the Alliance gives members sector updates on legislation and licensing, Primary Authority-assured advice, a free legal helpline, expert webinars, and exclusive discounts on insurance, training and products.

It also represents members in national policy discussions as part of the Companion Animal Sector Council, the Cross-Party Group on Animal Welfare and the Pet Advertising Advisory Group. Its mission is to promote the highest standards of animal welfare while being the voice of the pet industry – keeping pet professionals current, competent and compliant.

Vicky said: “To be recognised in a national award in our first year is incredible in itself, but to then be invited to Downing Street was huge.

"We set up the Alliance because pet professionals so often run their businesses alone, without anyone to turn to on welfare, licensing or the law – and meeting people facing the same challenges was a real reminder that we’re all in this together.

"Whether you’re a groomer, a baker or a builder, the day-to-day reality of running a small business is remarkably similar, and that shared experience is what makes events like this so valuable.”

“Small businesses are vital to our communities across the UK and a major driving force behind the economy, said Michelle Ovens CBE, CEO & Founder of Small Business Britain.

“It’s wonderful to see the success of the Animal Focused Alliance recognised by the Chancellor and the Treasury at No11 Downing Street. Backing small businesses has never been more important, and we must continue to ensure they have the support they need to thrive.”

Now in its 10th year, The Small Awards is run annually by Small Business Britain and judged by a panel of leading business experts.

For more information about the winners visit https://thesmallawards.uk/index.aspx\#theAwards