New Product Awards winners revealed at AQUA
The winners of the AQUA 2017 New Product Awards were chosen by a panel of highly respected aquatic retail judges, and were presented with their honours at a special dinner attended by over 700 guests last night (Wednesday)...
The winners of the AQUA 2017 New Product Awards were chosen by a panel of highly respected aquatic retail judges, and were presented with their honours at a special dinner attended by over 700 guests last night (Wednesday)...
The judges chose the winners of nine catergories from more than 100 new products entered.
Their decisions took into account a number of guideline criteria such as product innovation, design, quality, packaging and value for money. The judges agreed that the New Product Showcase had produced a high calibre of entries with a tremendous amount of innovation. They were pleased to see such a wide range of products, and felt the majority of items on display showed some great innovation. Here is a full list of the winners together with the judges’ comments:
 POS/Merchandising/Support Winner: Mobile Aquatic Display System Entered by: Beaver Plants Judges said: This product makes self-shopping for the customer a lot easier. It’s neat and tidy, easy to maintain, and a lot of thought has gone into the display system.
Reptile Winner: BioPod Terra Entered by: BioPod Judges said: The winning product stood out in this category. It has amazing features, including LED lighting and smart phone technology, and looks like a piece of furniture that integrates well into the home. It’s at the top-end of the market but is good value, and elevates terrariums on to the same level as aquariums.
 Pond Pumps Winner: Blagdon Liberty Pond Oygenator Entered by: Blagdon Judges said: Being solar powered with a battery back-up, this product is very eco-friendly. It has a multi-use function – for example it can be used in the transportation of fish. It also has good customer information and point of sale.
 Pond Filters Winner: EazyPod UV Automatic Entered by: Evolution Aqua Judges said: It is an excellent compact unit with good price points. This self-cleaning, mechanical and biological filter system for garden ponds has the added benefit of built-in UV.
 Pond Food, Care & Accessories Winner: Laser Guard Entered by: Velda BV Judges said: This is an improved way of dealing with a major problem – protecting pond fish against herons with green laser beams, flashes of lights and sounds.
 Aquaria & Furniture Winner: BioPod Aqua Entered by: BioPod Judges said: This new generation of aqua/terraria is adaptable, being suitable for both fish and reptiles. It has amazing features and fits perfectly into the home environment.
 Freshwater Equipment Winner: ZA BL-2 Breeding Box Entered by: CeramicNature Judges said: A lot of thought has gone into the design, making it very unique. This breeding box can also be used as an isolation tank for sick or aggressive fish.
 Aquarium Food Care & Accessories Winner: Corydoras Sticks 80g Entered by: Natures Grub Judges said: The winning product is sure to become a bestseller because of its great price point, making it an easy add-on sale. It’s a pro-biotic insect meal made in-house, containing over 20% insect meal as well as crustacean and aquatic plant meal.
 Marine Equipment Winner: ALR1 Algae Light Reactor Entered by: ITC Aquatics Judges said: This light reactor range is innovative, impressively designed, practical and represents good value for money.
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Pet store has licence to sell puppies revoked
Local councillors have revoked a license to sell puppies at a pet shop near Reading after an investigation found the store was in breach of certain licensing conditions, according to a report in the Maidenhead Advertiser...
Local councillors have revoked a license to sell puppies at a pet shop near Reading after an investigation found the store was in breach of certain licensing conditions. The decision has been reported in the Maidenhead Advertiser.
According to the newspaper, Linton Pet Store, which is located in Ladds Garden Centre, Hare Hatch, has been the subject of regular protests by animal rights campaigners.
A petition calling on Wokingham Borough Council to refuse the licence had been signed by thousands of signatures.
A full report on this news item can be found on the Maidenhead Advertiser website at https://www.maidenhead-advertiser.co.uk/gallery/twyford/122806/controversial-pet-store-has-puppy-licence-revoked.html
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The opening day of AQUA 2017 has been hailed a huge success by exhibitors who unveiled an amazing array of products to visitors flocking to Telford International Centre.
The excitement has been building for months with over 100 companies planning their new launches around AQUA 2017, and it led to a constant buzz throughout the first day Ruth Low, a director of Gordon Low, summed up the mood of exhibitors when she said: "It has been a fantastic first day. I haven’t stopped talking to new and current customers and I’m really happy with how things have gone.” And Ashleigh Foster, marketing manager of Tetra, said: “AQUA allows us to showcase all our new launches. So far the show has been great and the sales force have been busy all day.” There were some amazing stand designs throughout the exhibition hall with plenty of things for visitors to see and do during their stay at the AQUA show.
 Tropical Marine Centre had an Hawaiin theme on their stand, while the ‘Display Creations’, featuring a Hammerhead Shark and Giant Koi, certainly stopped visitors in their tracks on the Hamac Trading Company stand. This year’s show was the first AQUA event for Marine Arts, and Steve Le Chevalier was amazed by the response to his company’s display of decorative seashells. “We weren’t sure what reaction we would get but we took our first order after only 10 minutes of the doors opening and never looked back. AQUA has opened up a whole new world to us.” Kelkay were another new exhibitor and they also had great success on the opening day. “It has been fantastic and well worth us showcasing our new range of fountains. We’ve been impressed with the quality of visitors.” Prodibio have exhibited at AQUA in the past but according to Laura Beswarick this exhibition has been the best yet. “We are launching two new products and they have created lots of leads and orders.”  The first day of the show also got the thumbs-up from visiting retailers. Daniel Weston, of Reef Aquatics in Bognor Regis, said: “We never think twice about making the trip to AQUA. There is always a good variety of new products to see and all the main companies exhibit. The atmosphere in the exhibition hall is brilliant, and everyone is friendly, chatty and helpful. We also love the AQUA dinner where we can meet and speak to other retailers, and also relax in the company of our suppliers. AQUA is such a fantastic event.”
Tim Savage, of Pond Planet in Stockton-on-Tees, admitted that spending two days the show was vital to his business. “AQUA allows us to have a dedicated amount of time talking to manufacturers and suppliers. The show is well set up and easy to get around, and is the perfect showcase for everything that’s new in the market. It’s the ideal place to raise awareness of new products.” Following the successful first day, the AQUA dinner promised to be another memorable occasion with nearly 700 exhibitors booked to attend. During the evening the New Product Awards were being presented. The show is open for a second day on Thursday, October 19, from 9am to 4pm.
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Former OATA chief executive Keith Davenport has been presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the organization. Keith received the award at the AQUA 2017 Dinner in Telford last night (Wednesday).
Keith was recruited to help set up and run a new trade association, originally called OFI UK, to tackle a number of big issues facing the industry at the beginning of the Nineties. Renamed OATA in 1997, he took the organisation from strength to strength, raising standards and awareness over a quarter of a century.
Keith arrived as a fresh-faced lecturer at Sparsholt Agricultural College where he taught the ornamental fish-related courses. He was recruited by Richard Sankey and Dave Keeley to help set up and take forward a new trade association to tackle a number of big issues threatening the industry in the 1990s.
The fact that OATA members – and indeed all companies that work within the ornamental aquatic industry – are still doing business is largely down to Keith’s tenacious efforts on our behalf.
He’s represented UK businesses at national, European and even world level and OATA estimates that because of his work he’s saved the industry more than £250 million in that time.
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Kennelpak launched their nutritious new range of Collards dog food at the PATS Telford trade show with six delicious brand new recipes.
The popular brand is proudly made here in the UK in collaboration with vets and nutritionists, specially formulated to be kind to the dog’s stomach and is offered in ranges suitable for puppies, adult, senior, and overweight dogs.
 Each hypo-allergenic meal is carefully blended with a single source of meat or fish, and each one is supplemented with essential vitamins, minerals and oils to give dogs a healthy diet that helps look after their skin, coat, joints and cartilage.
The delicious new recipe range of the complete balanced food generated a great deal of trade interest at the show.
The variety of wet and dry foods are now available in a fantastic range of plastic trays, cans, and new 10KG and 2KG bags with resealable Velcro strips to keep the food fresh.
Stuart Lee, Sales Director of Kennelpak, said: “We were extremely pleased with the excitement generated by the launch of our new range of Collards pet foods at PATS. There is now a great opportunity to stock a cost-effective premium alternative for pet owners, which also offers an excellent sales margin.”
Stuart added: “The new expanded range has built on the successful Collards heritage, and we are seeing the brand go from strength to strength with its ever-growing popularity.”
To find out more about stocking Collards visit www.collardspetfood.co.uk or contact our dedicated Collards sales team on 0115 9399077 or email sales@collardspetfood.co.uk
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Natures Menu has for the first time appointed a strategic and creative agency. HeyHuman secured the business following a three-way pitch during the summer and has been tasked with supporting the brand’s positioning and communicating its product innovation to trade and consumer audiences.
HeyHuman’s first brief will be to support the launch of True Instinct, Natures Menu’s new super premium natural pet food brand, available in-store during Q1 2018. The launch campaign will consist of ATL and BTL trade and consumer activity including print, digital, social, in-store and exhibitions.
This and future work for Natures Menu will reflect the company’s ‘pet parent’ philosophy, the insight that owners view pets as members of the family and equally deserving of the same high quality food.
James Langan, commercial director at Natures Menu, said: “Natures Menu is embarking on a period of accelerated growth, and as a result, we need a strategic agency partner to complement our ambitious plans for the brand.
“This is the first time we have made an appointment of this kind and we’re excited to get started. HeyHuman’s deep understanding of the relationships people have with brands will play a significant role in helping us lead and innovate the UK’s natural dog and cat food market.”
Liz Richardson, managing partner of HeyHuman, said: “Natures Menu is an ambitious, fast-growing business at a really exciting stage in its journey and thinking hard about its positioning and what the brands stands for. This is the type of work that we love to get involved in and plays perfectly into our behaviours-focussed approach which explores brand relationships and delivers brain friendly content.”
The UK is the largest pet food market in Europe accounting for £2.6bn (equal in size to the UK cereal market). The size of the natural pet food market is averaging £226m, covering the main sectors of wet and dry food, including raw and treats. We estimate that the market is growing by 15% yoy.
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Pets at Home to hold ‘Dragons’ Den’ style innovation day
Pets at Home is on the search for pet product innovators as it holds a ‘Dragons’ Den’ style innovation day this November.
Award-winning HayPigs, a range of quirky, fun and functional products for guinea pigs and other small animals, took part in an innovation day in March.
Pets at Home is on the search for pet product innovators as it holds a ‘Dragons’ Den’ style innovation day this November.
The Innovation Day will be held on Monday 20 November with a closing date for entries set for Sunday 10 November.
It will offer the chance for aspiring inventors, incumbent suppliers, entrepreneurs and pet owners to pitch pet-friendly product ideas to a panel of expert judges from the UK’s largest and most successful pet specialty retailer.
On previous Innovation Days, Pets at Home has seen more than 150 inventors - from across the globe - pitch their product ideas to key decision makers in the business who are excitedly searching for new products and concepts to bring to the pet industry.
Claire Gavin, Head of Private Brands & Innovation at Pets at Home, said: “The Innovation Days offer a rare and exciting opportunity for people to share great ideas and work with us to turn those ideas into real products.
“From aquatic accessories and fish food to rabbit runs and puppy pens, if you have an idea we want to hear from you!.”
The Innovation Days, held at the Pets at Home Support Office in Handforth, South Manchester will give potential product creators a chance to gain advice from sourcing, buying and technical experts on how to make a good concept into a great and very commercial one.
Claire continues: “We spend our time searching the four corners of the globe for fantastic product ideas and concepts. However, nothing comes close to those ideas born from necessity. By that I mean the passionate pet owners who have been unable to find solutions and then spend time, creative thought, tenacity and determination to create their very own answer to a problem – that’s innovation.”
Pets at Home has seen a number of product ideas forged from Innovation Days go on to be huge success stories. In March this year, following the first Innovation Day of 2017, HayPigs!®, a range of quirky, fun and functional products for guinea pigs and other small animals, was launched exclusively online.
Rik Cridland (above), managing director of HayPigs!®, said: "The Pets at Home Innovation Day was a fabulous opportunity for us to pitch our new range to a team of industry experts. At the time we were actually in the early throws of production prior to launch, so timing couldn't have been better.
“While the pitch itself was a little daunting at first, I soon realised these Dragons didn't have sharp teeth and it was a really rewarding and worthwhile experience!
“For such an established retailer to show faith in our ideas and back us in the way they have has been a real boost for our fledgling business. Things are going really well and we're excited to see what the future holds!"
Pets at Home know that pitching to a large retailer can be a daunting prospect so have supplied some top-tips to help you create a really compelling presentation of your idea:
- Knowledge & Passion - Make sure you know your product and your customer inside out – and excite us so we feel the same
- Differentiation - Ensure you understand the unique selling points of your product, what sets it apart from others, why customers would want it and why Pets at Home should stock it
- Know Who You’re Pitching To - Visit Pets at Home stores before you pitch to demonstrate your understanding of the existing range, price structure, space, customer and how your product can add a different and credible dimension
- Competitor Landscape - Understand your competition and be prepared to talk about what gives your product a competitive advantage verses long established existing products
- Commerciality - Try to ensure your product is commercially viable by researching costs and volume potential or sharing sales successes to date
- Bring It To Life - Prepare a mock up (ideally a full prototype) – props and visuals don’t have to cost very much but can make all the difference to us sharing your vision
- Marketing Know-How – How will your product or brand have a voice? Understand the marketing levers available to support sales and have a clear plan to drive awareness
- Be creative! - Products conceived because you’ve needed to find a solution for something the market can’t satisfy are very often winners – share the journey you’ve travelled
- Be Confident - Don’t be too scared to ask for feedback, help or advice
- Preparation, preparation, preparation! - Practice your pitch, believe in your product and deliver it with confidence!
Remember that well thought through pitches that are commercially viable are the ones that are most likely to succeed.
If you have a fully developed and prototyped product for the team to consider please send through a presentation of your design concept to productdesign@petsathome.co.uk.
Pets at Home will then contact anyone whose concept grabs their attention and give them the opportunity to deliver a 30-minute pitch to the panel of trading experts on Monday 20 November.
The deadline for responses is Sunday 10 November.
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Peregrine Livefoods acquires WhitePython
The UK’s largest specialist reptile wholesaler has acquired WhitePython, the innovative reptile brand best known for modular LED lighting systems. As part of the acquisition WhitePython founder, Chris Jones, has joined the board at Peregrine Livefoods as Sales & Marketing Director...
The UK’s largest specialist reptile wholesaler has acquired WhitePython, the innovative reptile brand best known for modular LED lighting systems. As part of the acquisition WhitePython founder, Chris Jones, has joined the board at Peregrine Livefoods as Sales & Marketing Director. As part of the Peregrine’s ongoing expansion, Chris’s extensive experience in senior sales and marketing roles will accelerate the continuing growth of the company. Peregrine Livefoods Director Tim Green said: “I am delighted to bring Chris and the WhitePython brand officially into our company. With Chris’s knowledge and ideas, alongside our reputation, experience and resources, we look forward to the next phase in our ongoing development here at Peregrine.” Chris Jones comments: “Having worked alongside Peregrine for several years I am incredibly excited to be part of the team. My role will focus on creating innovative new products, developing strong sales and marketing campaigns and, of course, supporting our customers.”
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Pooch & Mutt has teamed up with leading health food brand Rude Health to offer social media followers the chance to win a supply of nutritious breakfasts – for both owners and dogs.
Established in 2005, Rude Health is a London-based food and drinks company, who pride themselves on creating products with no artificial or refined ingredients. Much like Pooch & Mutt, they believe that food should not be filled with preservatives, colours, flavourings, or other unnecessary additives.
With Rude Health contributing a selection of premium cereals and natural nut-based milks, Pooch & Mutt are offering their followers the chance to win a breakfast bundle for their dog worth £35. The prize includes a 2kg bag of Health & Digestion grain-free food, a pack of their Bionic Biotic health supplement, Daily Dental treats, a selection of Junk-Free Chews, and Fresh Breath Tube Treats and Pocket Packs.
Commenting on the collaboration, founder Guy Blaskey says: “High quality nutrition is based on honest, straight forward ingredients. For humans, it’s the key to fitness, well-being, and overall health, and it’s something people should be able to provide for their pets too. Pooch & Mutt have nothing to hide and it’s great that we’re able to team up with a brand who share our values.”
The breakfast giveaway launched on the 12th of October and will run until the 22nd across both Rude Health and Pooch & Mutt’s Facebook accounts, giving a combined number of over 90,000 followers the chance to take part.
For the chance to win the nutritious breakfast bundle worth £55, followers are simply asked to follow the link shared on Facebook - www.poochandmutt.com/rudehealthcomp - and enter their email address.
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Start-up firm set to launch range of cat climbing frames
British start-up, Catipilla, is launching a new range of cat climbing frames at The National Pet Show at Birmingham’s NEC on November 4-5. The company's idea is simple - to replicate a natural environment and create safe, stimulating spaces for cats to climb and roam freely...
British start-up, Catipilla, is launching a new range of cat climbing frames at The National Pet Show at Birmingham’s NEC on November 4-5.
Following months of development and testing, Catipilla is excited to be bringing its innovative concepts to the burgeoning pet market.
Founded at the start of 2017, Catipilla’s idea is simple - to replicate a natural environment and create safe, stimulating spaces for cats to climb and roam freely. Their wall-mounted climbing frames are a new concept in a competitive market and will be showcased within the Cat Zone at The National Pet Show. Catipilla’s product range is being manufactured in the UK and is focused on high quality. Each climbing frame is wall-mounted and made with contemporary materials including anodised aluminium, EPP and zinc-plated steel. The climbing frame is modular and can be installed inside or outside the home. Pre-orders have already been secured from the UK, Denmark, France and New Zealand. 23-year-old co-founder, Joseph Sutton, on launching Catipilla, “After months of development and testing, we’re excited to finally get our ideas in front of people and see their reaction. Our climbers have been built by cat people, for cat people and we can’t wait to see them in action.”
 Having secured seed funding, the team at Catipilla has ambitions stretching far beyond The National Pet Show with multiple ideas for new products already in the pipeline. Catipilla’s stand (C122b) will be located in the centre of the Cat Zone at The National Pet Show. Catipilla is seeking the opportunity to work with trade partners in the near future. For more information, visit www.catipilla.com. For trade enquires contact joseph.sutton@catipilla.com
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PAWBO to debut at National Pet Show
PAWBO will be making its first appareance at the National Pet Show! at the NEC in Birmingham on November 4-5, where the company will be demonstrating the latest in interactive pet technology on Stand C261...
PAWBO will be making its first appareance at the National Pet Show! at the NEC in Birmingham on November 4-5, where the company will be demonstrating the latest in interactive pet technology on Stand C261.
Since the much-anticipated launch earlier this year of the revolutionary wireless pet camera Pawbo+, and the add-on accessories from the PAWBO Theme Park, the PAWBO Catch and PAWBO Flash, media have been whipped into a frenzy wanting to get their hands on these products for trial and review, with a very positive response.
The end of October sees the launch of PAWBO Munch, described as ‘the feel-good treat dispenser for furry friends’. This unique piece of kit allows pets will be entertained and stimulated for hours thanks to a LED display, audio speakers and smart treat dispenser. Munch comes with a clever ‘slot machine’ style game where dogs, cats and a whole myriad of domestic pets can be rewarded from your smartphone or tablet at the touch of a button!
You need to see to believe this futuristic pet technology so why don’t you drop by the PAWBO Stand C261 for a sneak preview and to get Christmas ideas for the ultimate pet lover? There, you’ll get to meet the Pawbo team and see live product demos from the Theme Park.
In the meantime, find out more on the Pawbo Theme Park by simply visiting www.pawbo.co.uk
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Tetra makes a splash at the National Pet Show Birmingham
As the official sponsor of the Kids Zone at The National Pet Show,taking place at the NEC in Birmingham, Tetra will host a range of activity to inspire and engage excited young fishkeepers to learn more about the fascinating world of fishkeeping...
Tetra are currently exhibiting at the AQUA 2017 trade show.
As the official sponsor of the Kids Zone at The National Pet Show,taking place at the NEC in Birmingham, Tetra will host a range of activity to inspire and engage excited young fishkeepers to learn more about the fascinating world of fishkeeping.
The Tetra initiative will include fish themed arts and crafts, face painting, competitions, and a cool treasure hunt adventure! For the more experienced fishkeepers there is also the opportunity to gain in-depth information on common problems such as algae and fish disease from Tetra’s on-stand experts.
If that wasn’t enough, at the centre of the Kids Zone Noel’s Ark will bring a variety of animals from hens, owls, mini beasts and dogs for children to enjoy whilst budding vets can tune into inspirational talks from Supervets’ own Professional Noel Fitzpatrick.
Over the course of the weekend, Tetra will showcase its range of aquariums including children’s themed Minions and My First Aquariums which offer families everything they need to kickstart their new adventure. In addition, Tetra’s stylish Cascade Globe and premium range of food and core products will also be available for visitors to learn more.
Ashleigh Foster, Aquatics Marketing Manager at Tetra comments, “The National Pet Show London was a huge success for us and so we’re very excited to be continuing the fun in Birmingham with some new activity. Not only are all of the wonderful species fascinating to watch, but research has also shown that they offer a range of benefits to children including reducing stress, boosting cognitive development, and encouraging responsibility.”
During the show, Tetra will be present at stand A226, next to the Kids Zone. For those looking to attend, Tetra is happy to offer 25% off the advanced online ticket price for adult and children. Just enter the promotional code ‘TETRA’ using the following link:
www.theticketfactory.com/default/online/tickets/exhibitions/national-pet-show/birmingham/
For more information about Tetra, visit www.tetra-fish.co.uk or join the conversation with Tetra UK on Facebook.
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Leading investment company Old Mutual PLC raised its stake in Pets at Home Group PLC late last week, acquiring a further 1.09% stake in the pet goods retailer.
Having held a 12.01% stake in the London-listed firm prior to the transaction on Friday, Old Mutual now has a 14.10% holding through 70.5 million Pets at Home shares, according to a stock market announcement on Tuesday.
Based on Pets at Home's current issued share capital, Old Mutual upped its stake by around 10.5 million shares from 60.1 million beforehand. Based on the closing share price on the day of the transaction last Friday, the purchase would have been worth around GBP20.1 million, and value its current holding at about GBP135.4 million.
Based on trading on Tuesday, with Pets at Home trading down 1.0% at 185.75 pence, the value of Old Mutual's stake has fallen to about GBP131.0 million.
The purchase comes amid a recent sell-off by another major shareholder in Pets at Home. Kravis Roberts & Co sold off 61.0 million shares last Tuesday for around 195.08 pence for a total of GBP119.0 million, before selling off further shares through two other firms last Thursday.
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Plan to stamp out puppy farming
Anyone breeding and selling animals should be subject to a system of registration and licensing in a bid to stamp out puppy farming, says a leading welfare charity...
Anyone breeding and selling animals should be subject to a system of registration and licensing in a bid to stamp out puppy farming, says a leading welfare charity.
The Blue Cross pet charity would also like to see a centralised database which would ensure local authorities could better share data when it comes to large scale dealers and traders and provide a better picture of the welfare of animals being bred and sold across the UK.
Becky Thwaites, Head of Public Affairs at Blue Cross, made the comments in response to Christopher Evans MP's puppy sales debate.
“We thank Christopher Evans MP for raising awareness of major concerns relating to puppy sales and leading a debate on this issue in parliament,” she said.
“At Blue Cross hospitals we regularly see seriously-ill pets and their devastated new owners – victims of unscrupulous breeders and sellers who prioritise profit over the welfare of the puppies or their parents, and hear real life stories of real pets who have suffered thanks to ineffective legislation. It’s heart-breaking. As a pet charity we’re working tirelessly towards improving the welfare of pets being bred and sold across the UK.
“Given the government’s plans to amend the current system of licensing for breeding and sales this debate was extremely timely.
“The debate touched on a range of issues including online sale of pets, poor welfare standards in licensed premises and the huge scale of the unlicensed trade.
We were pleased to hear the Minister George Eustice commit that ‘the Government will be replacing existing laws on the breeding and selling of dogs with a stricter licencing regime’. However we were disappointed he failed to acknowledge the issue of enforcement in relation to the government’s plans to reform the licensing system and gave little detail on any plans for training or increased resources for local authorities.
“As our Unpicking the Knots report shows, local authority licensing officers often struggle because of a lack of training, time and resource to effectively carry out their duties. Our report highlights that 36% of licensing officers had had no training on animal welfare and yet are expected to carry out full and thorough inspections and spot potential welfare concerns. “Our research also shows that many local authority licensing officers don’t feel that they have the time to proactively investigate unlicensed sellers. In fact 44% of local authorities didn’t conduct any investigations into unlicensed premises at all in 2015.
“Given the huge scale of the unlicensed trade, something Chris Evans MP referred to a number of times in the debate, we believe it is essential that a system of registration and licensing is introduced for everyone breeding and selling animals.
“Blue Cross would also like to see a centralised database which would ensure local authorities could better share data when it comes to large scale dealers and traders and provide a better picture of the welfare of animals being bred and sold across the UK.
“We are pleased that Members of Parliament from across the House agreed that the key to solving the problems when it comes to the breeding and selling of animals is not just new legislation but also investment in an enforcement system which will better protect the welfare of pets across the UK.”
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The Pet Industry Federation has revealed the finalists for this year’s PIF Awards.
This year’s finalists are: Independent Retailer of the Year - sponsored by ROYAL CANIN & James Wellbeloved
Creature Comforts, Glasgow Millies Wolfheart, Keighley PetLondon, Marylebone, London The Pet Experience, Weymouth Trusty Pet Supplies, Derby
Unique Pets, Aylesbury
Pet Retail Chain of the Year – sponsored by Natures Menu
Kennelgate, Hucknall branch Pets Corner, Horsham branch
Manufacturer of the Year – sponsored by PATS HOWND Marriage’s JR Pet Products Naturediet Pet Foods UK Ltd Sea Treats Wholesaler of the Year – sponsored by PATS BestPets Pedigree Wholesale Trust Pet Products Vital Innovation Award of the Year Bruces Doggy Daycare, HayPigs Tailster Pet Remedy Natures Menu Wildwash Sustainability Award of the Year Inspired Pet Nutrition Vegeco Wildwash Exporter of the Year Armitage Pet Care Danish Design Naturo Pet Foods Pero (Foods) Ltd The First Class Pet Company Ltd Vegeco Grooming Business of the Year The Muddy Paw, Northampton Barkingham Park, Neath Shampooches, Harrogate, N. Yorkshire The Doghouse, Eltham, London Poppy’s Parlour, Clacton on Sea, Essex Canny Cuts, Shrewsbury Charity of the Year - sponsored by Mars Petcare International Cat Care Burns Pet Nutrition Foundation charity Kennel/Cattery of the Year – sponsored by Jelf Insurance Quintessential Quarters, Stafford Hedgerows Cattery, Alpington, Norwich Lea Wood, Gainsborough Chequer Trees, Heathfeld, E. Sussex Lower Mill Boarding Kennels & Cattery, Pontesbury, Shropshire Chetwynd Firs, Telford Pet Services – Doggy Daycare Bruces Doggy Daycare, Cobham Claires Comfy Canines, Burnham Happy Hounds, Winchester K9 Cares, Hereford Suffolk Canine Creche, Woodbridge Willow Tree Canine Daycare Ltd, Biggleswade Pet Services – Home Boarding & Dog Walking Bona-Fido, Warwickshire Barking Mad, Middlesex ChristchurchK9, Dorset Creature Comforts, Cheshire Holidays4Dogs, York Woof Walkies Limited, Wrexham Pet Services – Other Pet services Agria Pet Insurance, Aylesbury Amity Pet Care, Redhill Friends for Pets, Cheddar, Somerset Rhodes2Safety, Elloughton, E. Yorkshire Very Important Pets, London The Awards winners will be announced on Tuesday 28 November at a themed black-tie dinner to be held at the Whittlebury Hall, Towcester, Northamptonshire and will be presented to the winners by Professor Tim Morris, from the Animal Welfare & Welfare Board for England.
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Pero (Foods) Ltd has been shortlisted for this year’s PIF - Pet Industry Awards within the Exporter of the Year category.
The nomination adds to a hugely successful year for Pero, with the North Wales based manufacturer picking up the World Branding Forum – Brand of the Year Award for 2017 within the Dry Dog Food category.
This year saw Pero successfully branch into the European and Asian market, with the ever-growing brand becoming increasingly popular. Their all natural and ethical Pero and Truline brands of dog and cat foods are fast becoming a hit around the world.
Pero director Jonathan Rees said, “We are delighted to be shortlisted for yet another award this year, 2017 has been amazing. With our products now being sold in countries such as Singapore, India, France, Germany, Hong Kong, South Korea, Iran and Japan. We have also launched two brand new, state of the art websites this year. Pero is growing by the day and I’m extremely excited to see what the future has in store for us”.
The PIF – Pet Industry Awards will be held on the 28th of November in Towcester.
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Expanding pet food manufacturer, Pets Choice, has welcomed Laura Mallick to their growing team as key account manager.
With eight years’ experience within the pet sector for a VMD medicinal and chemicals manufacturer, Laura will be responsible for developing the growing Pets Choice portfolio of brands, further building relationships and managing the accounts of several of the larger pet speciality retailers.
Head of pet retail sales, Ben Windeatt, said: “Over the last three years Pets Choice has had a huge focus on growing our relationships within the pet speciality sector, from this we have seen consecutive year on year growth.
"Bringing Laura onboard as a key account manager is another positive step for Pets Choice supporting the pet retail sector to deliver mutual and ongoing success.
"Laura’s passion and enthusiasm for the pet market is infectious, and I’m certain she will be a fantastic asset to the growing team.”
For further information on Pets Choice, please visit www.petschoice.co.uk.
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 A young dog has been saved by PDSA vets after wolfing down gravel from her owner’s garden.
Bella, a one-year-old French bulldog, was rushed into the vet charity’s pet hospital in Croydon after her owner, Victoria Sherrin, noticed she had suddenly gone off her food and was being constantly sick.
When PDSA vets examined the stricken pet they could feel something in her abdomen and Victoria (37) of Chipstead, Surrey, immediately feared the worst.
She said: “I took Bella for a check-up because she wasn’t herself at all. She started snapping at us and couldn’t keep anything down.
“I wondered if she’d eaten something odd or had worms but then the vets said they could feel a mass in her stomach and I just broke down.”
Victoria feared a life-threatening illness but an X-ray soon revealed the true cause of Bella’s woes. She’d eaten a large collection of gravel stones which were now sitting in her stomach.
 PDSA vet, Laura Heaps, said: “Bella’s condition was very worrying, she was very lethargic and was suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting. We examined her and could feel something in her stomach and to be sure what it was, we x-rayed her.
“Thankfully, we’d just received a new £10,000 x-ray machine, thanks to funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, and the images were very detailed. When we saw the images on the screen we couldn’t believe our eyes!
“You could clearly see the gravel in her stomach and colon. Luckily because the stones were so small and unlikely to cause a fatal blockage we were able to avoid surgery. Flat-faced breeds such as French bulldogs are a higher anaesthetic risk than other breeds.”
Bella was given fluids and laxatives to try and flush her system of the gravel stones and was kept in overnight for close observation. Thankfully, she made a good recovery and was allowed home the following day after receiving the all clear.
There is a name for this type of behaviour where pets eat strange objects – known as pica. Pets, especially puppies and younger dogs, like to use their mouth to investigate objects as well as to eat. Sometimes a pet will swallow an item by mistake, even though they had only meant to investigate it.
With Bella safely back home, relieved owner Victoria said: “Bella was out of sorts for a couple of days but she was soon was back to her normal self. I can’t thank PDSA enough for the fantastic treatment she received. I’m keeping a close eye on her now to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
“She’s quite an inquisitive dog and is into everything so I’ve cleared the garden to try and ensure there are no gravel stones she can get her little paws on.”
PDSA sees many cases of pets eating inappropriate items every year. These can be fatal if they cause a blockage in the intestines. Owners are advised to speak to their vet for advice if they suspect their pet has eaten something it shouldn’t have.
For more pet health advice visit www.pdsa.org.uk
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Pet Love has expanded its range of dog toys within the Mighty Mutts brand to include a puppy range called ‘Mighty Pups’.
Made from a fusion of rubber & foam to create a unique material that is a strong flexible toy for teething chewers, and puppies with soft teeth.
These Mighty Pups toys will keep puppies entertained for hours, whilst discouraging destructive chewing. Also, each product has a hollow centre making them ideal for filling with treats and edible spread. These products are added to extend the Mighty Mutts product range out to involve the whole lifespan of a dog. Having a full, powerful range of product spanning from puppy (Mighty Pups) to adult (Mighty Mutts & Mighty Mutts Mint) and even through to senior chewers – the Mighty Pups material suitable for moderate chews such as senior dogs or more sensitive chewers. Harry Scott, Pet Product Manager of Pet Love, said: “We are so pleased to offer a product with material that is suited for teething pups. This unique material provides the give of a soft toy but the added toughness that Mighty Mutts is known for. We are excited that we have expanded our already successful range even further to reach all ages of a dog’s lifespan.” The “Mighty Pups” collection comes in a vibrant green with packaging to match, so it’s guaranteed to attract attention. There are 11 products within the Mighty Pups range with recommended retail prices starting at £2.99. The collection is available to order now. http://www.interpet.co.uk/brands/petlove/
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Eukanuba launches new visible benefits campaign
Eukanuba has launched a new campaign which aims to highlight how its premium, tailored diets support pets, whatever their age, allowing them to make the most of life’s moments, every day...
Eukanuba has launched a new campaign which aims to highlight how its premium, tailored diets support pets, whatever their age, allowing them to make the most of life’s moments, every day.
Since 1969, Eukanuba has been passionate about developing tailored nutrition in conjunction with vets to support dogs from puppy all the way through to their senior years with ingredients that promote real visible benefits at each lifestage.
Eukanuba Puppy provides 86% animal protein2 for strong bones and healthy joints for an active lifestyle whilst Eukanuba Adult offers a balance of omega 6 and 3 to help promote a shiny coat and nourished skin.
In addition, Eukanuba Mature & Senior helps dogs to maintain strong teeth, healthy gums and fresh breath throughout their life thanks to its unique 3D DentaDefence system.
The campaign, which will be activated through a multi-channel approach, highlights how owners can help their pets live a longer and fuller life through a rich diet which offers dogs exactly what they need, without any artificial preservatives, whilst being easy for owners to measure and feed. The retail launch will be supported with digital and social media advertising, in-store POS, PR, sampling, couponing and print advertising.
Eukanuba’s Head of Marketing, Giuliano Buccino says: “We know that it’s important for our consumers to feed their dog a 100% complete and balanced diet which provides visible benefits, such as a healthy digestion, allowing them to remain active throughout their life. As trusted nutritional experts in tailored nutrition and care, Eukanuba’s range provides options to support pets no matter what their lifestage, size or sensitivities.”
For more about Eukanuba, please visit www.eukanuba.co.uk
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From humble beginnings in 2014 when Independent Vetcare first launched their Graduate Academy programme with just 15 newly qualified vets, the group’s intake this year has grown for the third year running.
The 2017 intake for the IVC academy stands at 90, a third more than this time last year. So, what do they think the key to their success has been?
“We have an extremely dedicated and passionate team working to make the IVC Graduate Academy the best in the industry. Not only do to we have some of the most respected key opinion leaders across Europe delivering CPD at our graduate academy events, we also focus on ensuring that the support and structured progression is there in practice,“ said Darren Macintosh, Operations Manager overseeing IVC Graduate Academy.
Independent Vetcare are also able to place graduates throughout the UK, in both small animal and mixed practices, adding to the appeal of their now established and successful academy for new graduate vets.
For more information about the IVC Graduate Academy or to apply for 2018 visit https://www.independentvetcare.co.uk/graduate-academy.
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The best of last week's
The top-read stories from last week's Pet Trade Xtra can be seen below, if you missed them...
Just for Pets back in business following acquisition by Pedigree Wholesale
The future of specialist pet retailer Just for Pets has been secured following the acquisition of the business this week by newly formed company PSR Trading Limited, a sister company to established pet sector business Pedigree Wholesale. But as part of the acquisition process it was decided that seven stores could not be maintained...
The future of specialist pet retailer Just for Pets has been secured following the acquisition of the business this week by newly formed company PSR Trading Limited, a sister company to established pet sector business Pedigree Wholesale.
The deal enables Just for Pets to be rescued from Administration and to maintain employment of nearly 200 staff from its head office and store operations in 18 locations across the country.
The acquisition is driven by Pedigree Wholesale’s commitment to support a strong pet retail market offer for consumers and maintain the presence of specialist pet retailers on the high street and in retail locations across the country.
In addition to safeguarding the future of the business, Pedigree Wholesale will work closely with Just for Pets to ensure stock continuity together with investment to ensure the ongoing development of the Just for Pets product range.
Day-to-day management of Just for Pets will continue under the direction of its existing operational team who will continue to focus on customer engagement, staff development and instore activity.
As part of the acquisition process it was determined that with regret, seven stores could not be maintained and employees based at these stores have been issued with redundancy notices by the Administrator appointed by previous owners Just for Pets Ltd.
The 18 stores that will continue to be operated by PSR Trading Ltd are confirmed as:
- Bristol
- Bromsgrove
- Cambourne
- Cambridge
- Coventry
- Droitwich
- Evesham
- Kidderminster
- Long Eaton
- Malvern
- Maypole
- Northfield
- Nuneaton
- Stourbridge
- Swadlincote
- Telford
- Wolverhampton
- Worcester
Existing Just for Pet stores in the following locations will no longer operate as part of PSR Trading Ltd:
- Bessie & Boo (Evesham)
- Burton upon Trent
- Northampton
- Nottingham
- Reading
- Wellington
- Yardley
Commenting on the acquisition Steve Brown, MD of Pedigree Wholesale commented: “On hearing that the future of Just for Pets was under threat Pedigree Wholesale felt we could play a role in using our pet business expertise to secure a new future for the business.
"We know Just for Pets has a great reputation for offering outstanding customer service and has developed a loyal customer base so we are pleased that Pedigree Wholesale can now create a future for the business and the brand.”
“The addition of Just for Pets to the Pedigree Wholesale family reinforces our commitment to investing and driving innovation within the pet sector which we believe will support the interests of all who have a stake in the continued success of our industry.
"We remain committed to developing our core wholesale business and expect to announce further significant investment which will directly support all of our wholesale customers.”
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Shares at pet shop chain Pets at Home took a hit this week as private equity giant KKR sold £119m worth of stock.
The firm sold just under half of its stake – it still holds on to a 12.4% stake in the retailer.
Following the news Pets at Home closed the day with its share price down 7.74% at 199.2p apiece, making it the FTSE’s second biggest faller of the day.
The proceeds raised by KKR imply it sold its shares for 195p each. This is well below the debut price of 245p per share, and even further below the 267p at which KKR sold a chunk of its stake in 2015, generating around £288m.
The Pets at Home share price was 197.8p at close of play yesterday (Wednesday).
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Bessie & Boo in Evesham, Worcestershire – described as being a new concept in pet stores when it was launched just over a year ago – is one of seven Just for Pets stores that faces closure after being excluded from the acquisition by Pedigree Wholesale.
Bessie & Boo was designed to offer its customers a relaxing, enjoyable shopping experience while receiving excellent customer service and expert advice. At the time of its launch the boutique style store was said to be the first of a string of shops of this type. The Just for Pets business has been acquired by newly formed business PSR Trading Limited, a sister company to Pedigree Wholesale. But as part of the acquisition process it was determined that seven stores, including Bessie & Boo, could not be maintained and employees based at these stores have been issued with redundancy notices by the Administrator appointed by previous owners Just for Pets Ltd.
Closed sign at Just for Pets in Northampton this week.
 Existing Just for Pet stores in the following locations will no longer operate as part of PSR Trading Ltd:
- Bessie & Boo (Evesham)
- Burton upon Trent
- Northampton
- Nottingham
- Reading
- Wellington
- Yardley
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Bestpets trade show branded a roaring success
Bestpets, the specialist petcare division of Bestway Wholesale, held its third annual trade day for its Scottish customers at Blair Drummond Adventure and Safari Park in Stirling, and the event was heralded as a fantastic day...
Bestpets, the specialist petcare division of Bestway Wholesale, held its third annual trade day for its Scottish customers at Blair Drummond Adventure and Safari Park in Stirling.
The day, which invited hand-picked pet specialists and their families to the trade show and fun activities, was heralded as a fantastic day and the region’s best pet trade show,
Over 40 suppliers mixed with over 300 customers offering the latest NPD products in the New Product Showcase area, suppliers shared valuable insight and advice on how to increase sales within the pet category well as offering exclusive trade deals.
In addition to the Trade Day itself, retailers were free to enjoy the rest of the Safari Park for a fun family day out for all including face painting and a free Bestpets cuddly toy each child.
Peter Brame, category controller for Pet, is delighted about the Trade Day
“This is our 3rd Trade Day in Scotland and the response from both our supplier partners and retailers has been astounding. I am continued to be amazed at the enthusiasm and commitment shown by retailers to learn and update themselves with the latest trends. It is this appetite which gives the Bestpets Trade Day a great atmosphere and I’d like to thank everyone who attended the Trade Day, both Suppliers and Retailers for their on-going support.”
Suppliers and retailers were equally impressed by the standard of the Trade Show.
Bill Kimberling, Head of Sales for Forthglade Foods, said: “I have to say this was one of the best shows we have done and there was a real buzz on the day.
"We were both very busy the whole day and many customers have now started to trade well with the Forthglade brand as well as being keen to order and try new products.
"The venue is a very good location and allows for many of the very Northern customers to get to a show like this. We will be looking to support this again next year.”
Feedback from retailers has been extremely positive as they enjoyed meeting suppliers and also making the day about their families too. The success was encapsulated by a comment from one of our retailers: We had a great time and thought it was a really good mix of suppliers. A really enjoyable and productive day. Noah's Ark, Edinburgh I had a great day at the Trade Day. It was well organised and packs were sent out in time so you could have a look in advance and plan what you wanted to order. The offers on the day were a great attraction with the extra discount on a lot of lines. There were lots of stands and Reps to speak to and a good atmosphere in the marquee. Country Supplies, Lanark The Scottish Trade Day follows two other successful Trade Days held by Bestpets earlier in the year at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, near Doncaster, in June and Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, near Bristol, in July.
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