PetQuip Awards 2021 Winners' Special

Celebrating the pet industry’s achievements in 2021

Winners’ Special All the winners & FINALISTS listed inside

welcome to 2021 PET

The UK pet industry finally had the chance to celebrate in person during the announcement of the PetQuip Awards 2021 at PATS Telford in September when companies were honoured for outstanding performance during a challenging period of lockdown restrictions.

A packed gathering of retailers and suppliers attended the awards presentations which were held after the first day of PATS. The event, presented by Pat Flynn, PetQuip trade association manager, and Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE, director general of the PetQuip association, included 12 gold and 11 silver awards, plus nine highly commended awards and a special Lifetime 2 PetQuip Awards 2021

Achievement Award for Craig Taylor, chairman of Natures Menu.

Two new categories – ‘Innovations in Lockdown’ and ‘Community Projects During a Crisis’ – were introduced this year to reflect on how well pet companies and individuals had excelled in the face of adversity.

Also presented for the first time this year and sponsored by Group 55 was the Theresa Swann Trophy for Exporter of the Year, in memory of PetQuip’s former Head of Events & Administration who sadly passed away in December 2019.

Amanda Sizer Barrett said: “The enjoyment evident on the faces of so many people from the industry at

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TQUIP AWARDS!

our event has made it all worthwhile. The association is proud to recognise all the hard work, innovation and teamwork demonstrated by our industry. In addition to seeing so many happy winners, it was really rewarding to witness everyone enjoying the fruits of their labours

and the positive networking that took place between suppliers and buyers during the evening. We are already looking forward to our new style PetQuip Awards and party in 2022 and making plans to ensure that it will be a bumper year for the industry.”

PetQuip Awards 2021 are sponsored by:

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS EXPORTER OF THE YEAR THERESA SWANN AWARD

SCRUFFS

Scruffs, a global market-leading brand of premium pet bedding and accessories, is the first winner of the Theresa Swann Award for Exporter of the Year, sponsored by Group55.

The judges recognised the Scruffs team works hard to produce a full and exciting range of products, merchandised in eye-catching ways which appeal to countries worldwide.

“Winning the Petquip Exporter of the Year award means a tremendous amount to us, especially after such a challenging time with both the pandemic and Brexit. Export to the EU continues to be a major part of the Scruffs business, so it’s a great honour to receive,” said marketing manager Stephen Wooder.

Stephen Turner (right), chairman of sponsors Group55, presents the Theresa Swann Award to Scruffs’ brand manager Paul Donnelly (centre) and UK & Ireland head of sales Chris Johnson (left).

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“With customers in every one of the 27 EU member states, Brexit presented us with many new challenges to overcome. The long period of uncertainty prior to 31st December 2020 and the speed and suddenness with which the new deal and future trading relationship was announced meant that when we returned to work at the beginning of January 2021 there were many new issues and obstacles facing both Scruffs and its EU customers and partners.

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“The first task was to ensure the continuation of supply from our warehouses in Manchester to countries throughout the EU. “After an initial period throughout the first quarter of 2021 where suppliers, customers, and logistics companies grappled with the new regulations and costs, we were able to overcome many of these challenges together with our EU partners and normal service has resumed for the most part since then.

Award in memory of much-loved colleague and friend The Theresa Swann Trophy is a new honour dedicated to PetQuip’s former Head of Events & Administration who sadly passed away in December 2019.

“The reality is that both the UK and the EU have been dealing with countries such as China and the USA under the terms that mirror the UK-EU relationship for many years, so it is certainly not a complete shock to the system.

“Whilst there has unquestionably been an increase in monetary and time costs relating to duty, paperwork, and transport – ultimately, as long as companies like Scruffs on either side of the English Channel continue to produce products desirable to consumers in other countries there will always be a way found to get the products to market.”

Clydach Farm

Natural dog food company Clydach Farm sells to 500 stores in 11 countries.

ChickenGuard Company with an incredible exporting track record.

Theresa (left), pictured with PetQuip’s events manager Katie-Mai Smith.

Martin Breen, director of petcare at sponsors Group 55, said: “We were delighted to sponsor the inaugural Theresa Swann Trophy for Export. Theresa was a great source of help and support to us in our own export journey over a number of years. Her warmth and personality really made an impression on us from the time we first met her, and we remember fondly how well she looked after us at events like Interzoo and Zoomark. She could never do enough for us, from simple things like bringing us coffee and making sure we had the right train tickets, to introducing us to new people and helping us find new customers. She seemed to take a personal pride in seeing our growth and development happen, which meant a lot to us. Theresa is sadly missed but fondly remembered, and it is fitting that this award should bear her name. I’m sure Theresa’s family, friends and colleagues all take great pride in that.”

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS INNOVATIONS DURING LOCKDOWN

TAILOR-GRACE The judges recognised Tailor-Grace’s innovative development of the Huskaloo ‘eco’ cat litter made from a sustainable source. They were also impressed with the company’s inventive marketing campaign, which included sponsorship of a sailing boat used by trainee scientists from under-privileged backgrounds to assess the impact of climate change off our shores.

PAWFECT FOODS

Silver was awarded to a company which has encouraged owners to re-think the feeding habits for their pets.

FROZZYS

Tailor-Grace’s managing director Tracey-Louise Voss (right) said: “We are so proud to win this award. Huskaloo has caused a real stir and interest is really high.”

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A unique new offering – created during lockdown and marketed by social media.

PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS

COMMUNITY PROJECTS DURING A CRISIS

PETS COUNTRY MANOR

The judges recognised the efforts of Pets Country Manor which worked hard for the welfare of cats during the pandemic. The team put together YouTube training sessions advising new owners on how best to introduce cats and kittens into a home and how to look after them.

It also opened a feline food bank in Merseyside to feed abandoned pets following the lifting of restrictions.

especially after such a terrible 18 months. It helps show people that we haven’t been sitting round twiddling our thumbs – we’ve thought up ideas on how we can make a difference to help rescue centres and help give advice to new cat owners.”

The cat hotel was started by Craig Hailes and Victoria Corcoran, initially with support from the Princes Trust.

Victoria added: “Each cat we look after is an individual and whether they want to be groomed, cuddled or played with, we are on hand to make sure every furbaby settles in brilliantly and goes home happy and content, ensuring owners want them to return for another holiday with us.”

Victoria said: “Winning a PetQuip award means so much to our business and staff morale,

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The Pets Country Manor is a luxury, five-star licensed hotel for cats based in Merseyside, looking after around 100 cats on a daily basis.

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Craig said: “During lockdown we decided to start a YouTube channel about the hotel and also cat care/advice videos. We upload videos on a regular basis and offer tips such as ‘how to introduce a new cat into your household’ or ‘how to help your cat start using its litter tray’.”

At the start of 2021 the Pets Country Manor decided to set up as Merseyside’s feline food bank, with donations being delivered to cat rescue centres across the region. The couple also set up an online cat lovers web store during lockdown.

FORTHGLADE

Silver was awarded to Forthglade who had already set up a charity initiative called Happy Paws in 2016 and were in a strong position to assist charities struggling due to the Covid crisis. They helped 175 charities by supplying 62,000 trays of food for dogs.

They also gave a 20% discount to all NHS staff.

C&D FOODS Highly Commended went to C&D Foods who joined forces with a local pressure group Bradford 4 Better, urging pet owners to keep caring for their pets despite the challenges of Covid 19.

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS

Wyld Cub designs and supplies a range of colourful and stylish dog collars, leads and harnesses.

BUSINESS START-UP

WYLD CUB

Wyld Cub, the winner of the gold award in this category, has come a long way in just a short time with panache and a fantastic flair, not only in its marketing and promotional acumen, but also through its a wide business knowledge.

“We are still on cloud 9 after winning this award,” said Wyld Cub founder Leonie Knowles. “It was so lovely to hear the judges’ comments.”

Leonie added:“We put dogs at the heart of everything we do. We believe that being a conscious and progressive brand that stands for more than just what it sells, ultimately helps contribute towards a better future for our dogs.

“We design our collections for dogs’ personalities because to us, all dogs are individual family members who deserve to stand out from the pack.

“We believe dogs deserve to wear only high quality, comfortable products that are safe to use for their adventures.

That’s why the key components of our products have been quality and strength tested by a UKAS Accredited Laboratory to ensure we meet EU and UK standards.”

GREEN POOP BAG CO

SNIFFE & LIKKIT

Silver went to Sniffe & Likkit, one of the most fragrant new businesses around.

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Highly Commended was awarded to Green Poop Bag Co, which listened to advice and honed its retail offering to suit the demands of the High Street whilst not compromising on quality. www.petquip.com

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

THE ECO DOG DESIGN COMPANY

The Business of the Year Award went to The Eco Dog Design Company, a business which specialises in quality handcrafted dog collars and leads with accessories to match.

The judges said the ideals and values displayed by the company shone through even though its was up against some of the big names in the industry.

Owner Paula Jardine revealed what the award meant to her business. For The Eco Dog Design Company to win any award is a very proud achievement, but specifically for being acknowledged as a Business of the Year within the pet industry is such a milestone accolade for us,” she said.

“It proves all of the hard work and dedication to the business has been recognised in such a competitive field. I’m overwhelmed that the judges were able to see that a small independent company could stand out from the competition.”

There is a strong environmental awareness at the company. Wherever possible it sources other small sole trader businesses to complement its main collar and lead range.

Paula added: “We pride ourselves in the fact all our dog apparel products are made within the UK – 98% of our suppliers are British based to ensure we can minimise our carbon footprint.

We also support small businesses by stocking their dog related products such as signs, plaques, toys, and snout balms. We also have a Return, Recycle & Renew Scheme which provides the customer with an incentive to reduce landfill.”

C&D Foods

Silver was awarded to C&D Foods, which captured its business methods and work ethic in a succinct way.

PEDIGREE WHOLESALE A fantastic family business, which continues to deliver great service.

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APPA’s pet industry market dat

By Anne Ferrante, Senior Vice President, American Pet Products Association

Pet ownership grew during the pandemic.

In fact, 14% of total respondents obtained a new pet during the pandemic and at least one in four new pet owners said their recent pet acquisition was influenced by the pandemic.

Millennials also continue to be the largest cohort of pet owners at 32%, followed closely by Boomers at 27% and Gen X at 24%. As more Gen Z become adults, their proportion of pet ownership will grow. As of 2020, Gen Z comprised 14% of all pet owners.

For over 30 years, APPA has presented the pet industry with US market data aimed at arming all segments of the industry with insights needed to inform their decisions and implement successful business strategies. Here are some key resources and findings that can help guide your business: APPA’s 2021 US Pet Industry Expenditure Report reveals that in 2020 the industry exceeded over $100 billion in sales for the first time. APPA’s mid-year update to the report shows that during the first half of 2021, two categories of the US pet industry had outperformed estimated goals. Pet ownership showed continued growth during this period and pet owners managed economic pressures of the pandemic and continued to spend at unprecedented rates, despite an estimated inflation rate of 3-4%.

The pet food and treats sector shows an estimated 13.5% increase over 2020 actuals for the first half of 2021. This increase was driven by gains in all channels with E-comm, Farm & Fleet and Direct to Consumer continuing to gain share.

Supplies, Live Animals and OTC Medicine show an estimated 20% increase over 2020 actuals for the first half of 2021. This gain represents record performance as discretionary purchases accelerated partially as a result of the stimulus payments, new pets in the home, and new pet owners who show a propensity to spend more on their pets than others in their cohort.

The APPA National Pet Owners Survey, another important data resource from APPA, is the pet industry’s most comprehensive consumer research study about pet ownership, pet care practices, and preferences in the consumption of product and services by America’s pet owners. Since 1988 it has informed all sectors of the pet care community and those looking to enter the market. The survey uses a robust nationally representative sample of US pet owners, so you can be sure that findings truly represent the preferences and behaviours of US consumers.

US pet ownership levels Pet ownership in the US is at historically high numbers. According to the 2021-2022 survey, 70% of US households own some type of pet, up from 67% in the 2019-2020 Survey. That puts the number of US households that own a pet at over 90 million.

Dogs continue their run as the most popular type of pet, owned by 54% of US households while cats are owned by 35% of US households.

US pet owning households generally have more than one pet, with the average number of dogs at 1.56 and cats slightly higher at 1.74. Not surprisingly, freshwater fish are the highest with an average of 6.88 per household.

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Backyard chickens One of the newer pet categories studied in the survey is backyard chicken ownership, which is on the rise in the US. In 2018, 8% of respondents had backyard chickens and 6% considered their chickens to be pets. The percentage owning chickens increased to 13% in 2020, with 9% considering them to be pets. Chickens are so much more than farm animals in the US with the majority of chicken owners considering them to be pets.

Pet spending and channel mix Pet spending increased during the past year, with 35% of pet owners stating they spent more on their pet/pet supplies – including food, wellness-related products and other pet care items – in the last 12 months than in the preceding year.

E-comm dramatically increased its share from 22% to nearly 30% of the market, with Specialty and Mass losing market share while Farm & Fleet held their same levels. While total sales in every channel grew in 2020, there was a very definite shift to online purchases, either through pure e-comm sites or e-comm sites run by brick and mortar retailers. While online shopping took the lead, there is still a very definite importance of brick and mortar in the mix, with many pet owners picking up at the store/ curbside. Brick and mortar also remains a favorite information source for US pet owners.

Online shopping Pet owners shopping online increased by almost 20%, from 72% in the prior year to 86% of responses in this year’s study.

Before the pandemic, 60% of pet owners usually purchased pet products in person at brick and mortar stores. During the pandemic, in-person shopping dropped to 41%, aligning more closely with the 46% of pet owners who prefer to purchase online with purchases shipped to their home.

Technology natives are using a wider variety of online sources to learn about pet products and Millennials have a much higher percentage, at 70%, than the other generational cohorts who purchase pet products via subscription.

Pet food is purchased online by a higher percentage of pet owners than any other category of pet supplies. In 2020, 79% of respondents report having purchased pet food online with 31% doing so via a subscription service, a 19% increase over the level reported in 2018.

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ta can help guide your business Health Benefits of Pet Ownership Many pet owners (80%) agree that owning a pet is beneficial to their health and 72% report that the health benefits of having a pet are very important to them. Sixty-nine percent of current pet owners believe the most important health benefit they get from having a pet is happiness/emotional support. Others (82%) feel that pets can help them relax and 67% say exercising with their pet is more enjoyable than exercising alone. The benefits of pet ownership outweigh the drawbacks with one-fifth of pet owners saying there are no drawbacks to having a pet.

Future outlook This all brings us back to our very optimistic outlook. We are excited about the incredible gains in the industry in the first half of the year.

All surveys indicate that the gains in pet ownership, combined with increased spending from younger generational cohorts, should continue to drive strong growth in the coming year.

Pets as an integral part of the family In the US pets are considered an integral part of the family, which fuels sales in many growing and emerging categories. While 61% of dog and cat owners say their pet provides companionship, love, company and affection, more than half say their pet is fun to have in their home. Both dog owners (47%) and cat owners (43%) say their pet is like a child or member of the family and approximately one-third of US pet owners feel that pets bring their family closer together.

Accompaniments to survey and other APPA data resources The National Pet Owners Survey Data Portal is APPA’s newest companion to the survey and is a fantastic tool for companies that wish to share Survey data among multiple employees.

This tool becomes even more valuable in the remote working environment, allowing your whole team to collaborate around the data. The portal offers quick, customized access to all the consumer insights data found in the survey. Just a few clicks are all it takes to get to know US pet product consumers. You can customize your data analysis and remove the guesswork.

Also Check out APPA’s Generational Report and the free APPA COVID-19 Pulse Study: Pet Ownership During The Pandemic.

If you still need more data or other customized US Market Research Solutions, APPA’s experienced analysts can offer customized analytics and reports to help you address all your market research needs.

Pet insurance purchases amongst both dog and cat owners have increased, nearly doubling amongst cat owners in particular. Among dog owners, 20% have insurance for their pet, while 14% of cat owners do, both higher than the levels reported in 2018. Thirty-four percent of dog and 40% of cat owners who have insurance have purchased it within the past year.

Humanisation, premiumisation, sustainability US pet owners are very serious when it comes to the care of their pet. In fact, 72% of dog owners and 70% of cat owners say their pet’s diet is very important to them and they don’t plan to make any changes regardless of their personal finances. Just over one-half are willing to pay more for brand name food and other pet products, as well as pet products that are eco-friendly or ethically sourced. While 60% of pet owners surveyed say they would pay more for pet products made in the US, BPA-free is something for which 48% of pet owners will pay more. Fortythree percent say they would be open to giving their pet some type of therapeutic CBD product. Three-quarters of all pet owners who own or rent their residence say they took their pet into consideration when deciding where to live and 60% of pet owners say they consider their pet when making financial plans.

How to get your copy of the survey and other APPA market research The good news is that you don’t need to be a member of APPA to utilize these incredible resources, though it will cost you a little more. APPA membership affords complimentary access to the Survey and deep discounts on other research products. For more information on APPA’s market Research and to order your copy of the APPA National Pet Owners Survey, please go to americanpetproducts.org/survey.

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS PET PRODUCT OF THE YEAR (Accessories & Technical)

SNIFFE & LIKKIT SCENT-A-MESSAGE

Inspired by nature and a walk in the woods, Sniffe & Likkit’s beautiful scented greeting cards have been infused with a wonderful aromatic blend of perfume oils. The company’s signature home fragrance ‘Cedarwood from the trees’ has been specially created to include a blend essential oils renowned for their aromatherapeutic, calming and soothing benefits. Beautifully presented in a designer wallet.

WYLD CUB

PEDIGREE WHOLESALE

Silver was awarded to a practical, very colourful and attractive product – the reversible harnesses from Wyld Cub.

An incredibly practical product which can also be merchandised next to tills as an impulse purchase.

Reversible harnesses

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Animal Instinct Poo bag holder & TORCH

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PET PRODUCT OF THE YEAR (Healthcare & Grooming)

Tropiclean PERFECTFUR The winner of the gold award was Tropiclean with its PerfectFur range of six shampoos and one tangle remover. The judges described the range in one word – gorgeous. PerfectFur is specially formulated to enhance a dog’s unique coat type – whether their coat is thin or thick, long or short, curly or smooth.

SNIFFE & LIKKIT WOOF PACK

Silver went to Woof Pack from Sniffe & Likkit for what the judges felt was ‘faultless with perfect packaging’.

Eden holistic Pet Foods

joint support

Joint Support from Eden Holistic Pet Foods was Highly Recommended as it was reasonably priced for a specialist product and came in lovely packaging. www.petquip.com

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS

PET PRODUCT OF THE YEAR (Food)

EDEN HOLISTIC PET FOODS COUNTRY feast Country Feast from Eden Holistic Pet Foods picked up the Gold award in the Food category. The judges were instantly drawn to the packaging of the range, saying it had excellent shelf appeal and was a great British product. This semi-moist range uses the finest ingredients – freshly prepared duck, lamb, rabbit and venison – together with super foods and additional herbs, vitamins and minerals.

PEDIGREE WHOLESALE NATURES DELI

The judges felt Natures Deli from Pedigree Wholesale will quickly become an excellent seller.

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WALKER & DRAKE COLD PRESSED

Highly Commended went to Walker & Drake, which has produced a delightful, and well packaged product.

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PET PRODUCT OF THE YEAR (Treats)

FROZZYS FROZEN YOGHURT

Frozzys’ new handy sized four packs and updated packaging are sure to attract new pet owners to this popular lickable frozen yoghurt product. Frozzys’ dog treats are made with a dog’s health and happiness in mind. Rich in healthy ingredients, packed full of flavour and low in calories.

“We’re absolutely delighted to have been recognised so highly in this distinguished awards event,” commented Noel Conlon, co-founder of Frozzys. “Both our Lickable Frozen Yogurt and Superbites ranges have been meticulously developed in order to provide consumers with premium dog treat products that dogs enjoy, and owners feel good feeding them.”

BURGESS PET CARE

EXCEL NATURE SNACKS Small furry animals will love the Excel Meadow Munchies and Nature Snacks from Burgess.

Well priced and beautifully packaged.

MEALBERRY

little one green valley sticks Little One Green Valley Sticks from Mealberry are a great addition to the small animal sector.

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS

UK PET RETAILER OF THE YEAR (GROUP)

JUST FOR PETS Specialist pet retailer Just for Pets has again been crowned PetQuip’s UK Pet Retailer of the Year (Group) after also winning the award in 2019.

With 18 pet stores around England and a new website the company has made significant investments into its stores and team members.

Paul Lewis, general manager at Just for Pets, said: “I’m overjoyed that the work and dedication of our store teams was recognised again. The teams go above and beyond to make sure that everyone who visits Just for Pets get the very best customer experience.”

He continued: “This year we’ve removed zero hours contracts unless the team member preferred this form of employment and all our team members are now enrolled on a bespoke training programme from Hannah Molloy of Channel 4’s Puppy School that covers everything from dog nutrition to puppy socialisation. We know customers really appreciate the advice teams offer in store” Just for Pets has also added a huge range of new products to all stores from raw and frozen foods and natural deli treats to its Best of British pledge that aims to support smaller UK pet product suppliers with better cash flow, in store advertising and more.

Leanne Blunn, senior buyer, added: “We recognise that it’s not just about what we sell but also what we don’t sell. We have removed a number of products over the years, including negative training devices and less eco-friendly poo bags to make sure we offer the best products for pet health and wellbeing.”

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Customer feedback has been nothing but positive this year with many google and social media reviews declaring Just for Pets as ‘the best pet store around’.

Jack Bocock, dual site manager, said: “We can’t thank customers enough. The support through Covid and feedback to the changes in store has been amazing. It’s always great to see both the new and regular faces in store.”

With plans to open more stores this year Just for Pets currently has pet shops in Bromsgrove, Cambourne, Cambridge, Coventry, Droitwich, East Bridgford (Nottingham), Evesham, Kidderminster, Long Eaton (Nottinghamshire), Malvern, Maypole (Birmingham), Northfield, Nuneaton, Stafford, Swadlincote, Telford, Wolverhampton and Worcester.

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS

UK PET RETAILER OF THE YEAR (INDEPENDENT)

Natural cornish pet A pet store based in St Erth, Cornwall, has won the prestigious UK’s Best Independent Pet Retailer award.

network. It was a move that was to bring their shop specialising in natural pet foods, treats and quality pet accessories to life.

Natural Cornish Pet has its roots in the doggy day care business set up by owners Jordan Coombe and Katy Peck back in 2014.

Their carefully curated shop not only stocks a great selection of raw dog food products, but is also a specialist natural pet food centre that sells only the best quality wet and dry pet foods, supplements and treats to meet all canine and feline nutritional needs. With great service and knowledgeable staff the shop aims to make choosing the right food for pets simple and accessible.

Based on a former 13-acre golf course the day care business grew rapidly and the couple were soon faced with a host of ‘wonderful’ new friends of both the two- and four-legged variety, plus the opportunity to help guests and owners who were frustrated in their search for quality natural and raw dog food in Cornwall.

So in 2018 the pair decided to set up shop to cater for the obvious demand for quality pet foods and goods, not only from their existing clients but from the wider dog-loving Cornish 20 PetQuip Awards 2021

So successful has the shop been that Natural Cornish Pet has taken on a new warehouse facility in Hayle this year, adding an extra 2,500 square feet of storage space to the business.

During the coronavirus lockdown, the doggy day

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care side of the business looked after the dogs of key workers, while the pet shop upped its online catalogue to include all products from its range and added a simple click-and-collect service to help those who wanted or needed to shop from home. By adapting the business in this way the couple managed not only to keep on top of demand but actually to grow the online turnover by 130%.

customers will find at the Natural Cornish Pet are all hand-selected and considered by a team that knows what’s best for pets and are chosen for being the best of their kind for both value and quality, along with being tried and tested by our own community of dog lovers that use our Doggy Day Care Centre.”

The next move is to continue the expansion of the online side of the business, with the shop working as a ‘boutique’ showroom, featuring eye-catching displays and points of sale that promote all the benefits that a natural, simple diet has to offer.

The pair are also keen to support the local community, including charities such as Hayle’s National Animal Welfare Trust and the Cinnamon Trust.

As a gradual evolution of the shop, Natural Cornish Pet has developed an own-brand range to continue with its ethos of natural, beneficial and affordable products for pets. Its own-label dry and cold-pressed foods are called Aflora, a grainand gluten-free range catering for the specific dietary needs of dogs with sensitive digestions.

Products are distributed nationwide.

The own-label range has recently been expanded As well as pet food and treats, the store also offers to include a number of innovative products a selection of quality accessories that are not such as a peanut butter developed specifically always easy to find elsewhere, such as reflective for dogs, hypo-allergenic and tempting fish harnesses for the winter and paw balm to protect treats, salmon oil and a range of natural meat pets during extremes of weather. treats. Natural Cornish Pet has also launched a wholesale website selling its own products to Jordan said: “What really makes our pet store other independent pet shops, currently with dogstand out from the crowd is that the products friendly Christmas gifts very much in mind.

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS

UK PET RETAILER OF THE YEAR

Chepstow Pet Stores Creature Comforts Paws

Silver award for the UK Retailer of the Year went to a chain of three stores – Chepstow Pet Stores, Creature Comforts and Paws – who bring joy to Wales and their customers with their knowledge, passion and innovative new ideas.

FINALISTS IN UK PET RETAILER OF THE YEAR

URBAN PET STORE

BEARTS OF STOWBRIDGE 22 PetQuip Awards 2021

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INTERNATIONAL RETAILER, WHOLESALER OR DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR

PETZONE

Petzone has been a leader in pet retail and distribution in Kuwait for several years and the company is always looking forward to the future.

melt as they pet a hamster or a rabbit for the first time or their looks of amazement at the store’s multi-coloured Macaws is an everyday delight.

It currently has 24 stores in Kuwait with over 8,000+ products from the world’s leading pet brands, a top-of-the-line grooming service and specialised teams dedicated to teaching new pet owners the ins and outs of pet care.

“We are honoured to receive such a prestigious award from an internationally recognised organization in our industry,” said Petzone’s marketing/ecommerce manager Amin Dolatshahi.

With recent expansions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Petzone is looking to expand its growth in the Middle East region.

“Petcare is a field in which you must be solely dedicated to your customers’ needs and to be awarded for this dedication is thoroughly humbling and gratifying.

In Kuwait its Mega Store focuses on giving both kids and adults a unique experience by showcasing a wide variety of small animals and exotic birds on display. Seeing children’s hearts

ARRAN DOG BAKERY

“After such a challenging year full of hardship and sacrifice, pet parents across Kuwait looked towards us for support and we are proud to say we responded with due diligence. This gratitude is being felt throughout Petzone and this reward is a wonderful showcase of those efforts.

“We hope to inspire more pet owners and we are excited at the ever-growing prospects of the pet industry both regionally and globally.”

warmako Silver was awarded to an importer and distributor of high quality products which works with every major pet chain in three countries – Warmako from the Netherlands.

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2021 WINNERS & FINALISTS

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

CRAIG TAYLOR

Craig Taylor, chairman at Natures Menu, was awarded the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award.

As a true pioneer of raw feeding, Craig is well respected within the industry, sitting on the advisory board for the PFMA. Recognising those that have made an instrumental impact on the pet product industry, Craig received the award for his determination, enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit which has driven the growth of the raw food category in the UK to now being valued at over £150m in retail sales value.

Natures Menu is the UK and Europe’s leading expert in raw and natural pet food and Craig has been at the forefront of the business’ success since he became Managing Director in 1992, and now Chairman since February 2020. The business continues to be the brand leader in the raw market with a category share of more than 40%.

The annual PetQuip Awards recognise the best products, manufacturers and services in the pet product industry.

Commenting on the award, Craig said: “I feel extremely proud to have won the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s PetQuip Awards. Natures Menu started out as a small family business and is now recognised as Europe’s leading expert in raw and natural pet food. I couldn’t have achieved everything I have without the amazing team around me, and we look forward to supporting more pet owners in their mission to achieve happy and healthy pets, as we continue to grow.”

Amanda Sizer Barrett, director general of PetQuip, said: “Craig has been at the forefront of Natures Menu’s success since becoming Managing Director of Anglian Meat Products in 1992 – from launching the Natures Menu brand 15 years later, to overseeing a management buy-out in 2012 and then becoming Chairman in February 2020.

“He’s a well-deserved winner of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.”

24 PetQuip Awards 2021

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Roll of Honour EXPORTER OF THE YEAR (THERESA SWANN TROPHY) Gold – Scruffs Silver – Clydach Farm Highly Commended – ChickenGuard

INNOVATIONS IN LOCKDOWN Gold – Tailor-Grace Silver – Pawfect Foods Highly Commended – Frozzys

BUSINESS START-UP AWARD Gold – Wyld Cub Silver – Sniffe & Likkit Highly Commended – The Green Poop Bag

COMMUNITY PROJECTS DURING A CRISIS Gold – Pets Country Manor Silver – Forthglade Highly Commended – C&D Foods

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Gold – The Eco Dog Design Company Silver – C&D Foods Highly Commended – Pedigree Wholesale

PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Accessories/Technical Gold – Sniffe & Likkit – Scent-a-Message Silver – Wyld Cub – reversible harness for dogs Highly Commended – Pedigree Wholesale – AI poo bag holder and torch Food Gold – Eden Holistic – Semi-Moist Country Feast Silver – Pedigree Wholesale – Natures Deli Highly Commended – Walker & Drake – Cold Pressed Foods Treats Gold – Frozzys Silver – Burgess Excel Nature Snacks Highly Commended – Mealberry – Little One Green Valley Sticks Healthcare/Grooming Gold – Tropiclean – PerfectFur range Silver – Sniffe & Likkit – Woof Pack Highly Commended – Eden Holistic – Joint Support for dogs INTERNATIONAL RETAILER, WHOLESALER OR DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR Gold – Petzone, Middle East Silver – Warmako BV, The Netherlands UK RETAILER OF THE YEAR Joint Gold – Just for Pets and Natural Cornish Pet Silver – Chepstow Pet Supplies, Creature Comforts and Paws (an independent chain of three pet stores) LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Craig Taylor, chairman, Natures Menu www.petquip.com

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Finalists OUR WELL-DESERVED FINALISTS IN 2021

THE THERESA SWANN AWARD FOR EXPORTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Group 55 Burgess ChickenGuard Clydach Farm Eden Holistic Scruffs INNOVATIONS IN LOCKDOWN C & D Foods Chepstow Pet Supplies Creature Comforts Different Dog Frozzys Hownd Meg Heath Natures Menu Not Just Pets Pawfect Foods Paws Pets Country Manor Pet Remedy Scoff Paper Sniffe & Likkit Tailor-Grace The Green Poop Bag Tiana Halal Cat Food

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR C & D Foods Different Dog Fetch-It Friends for Pets Henley Raw Henry & Co Herbal Dog Co Natures Menu Not Just Pets Pedigree Wholesale Pets Country Manor Scruffs Tailor-Grace The Eco Dog Design Company Vita Canis

COMMUNITY PROJECTS DURING A CRISIS Bark & Birch C & D Foods Chepstow Pet Supplies Eden Holistic Forthglade Pets Country Manor BUSINESS START-UP AWARD Creature Comforts Doggy Doggy Yum Yum Scoff Paper Sniffe & Likkit The Green Poop Bag Herbal Dog Co Walker & Drake Wyld Cub 28 PetQuip Awards 2021

INTERNATIONAL RETAILER/ DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR Musti Ja Mirri Group Oy, Finland Petzone, Middle East Tom & Co, Belgium Warmako bv, The Netherlands UK RETAILER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Natures Menu Arran Dog Bakery, Scotland Chepstow Pet Supplies, Wales Creature Comforts, Ross-On-Wye H&C Beart, Stow Bridge, Norfolk Just for Pets, national pet store chain Natural Cornish Pet, Hayle, Cornwall Paws, Monmouth, Wales Urban Pet Store, Garforth, West Yorkshire

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PET PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Accessories/Technical Barking Bags – multi functional dog walking bag Fetch.It – compostable pet products Meg Heath – KutP-Woof! Don’t Let Go dog lead Pedigree Wholesale – Chuckit! Fetch & Fold/JW Hol-ee Roller Puppy/AI LED Poop Bag Holder & Torch/Hurtta Cooling Wrap/afp Anxiety Vest/ScrubBuster Pet Trade Innovations- Bamboodles Rocketo – Hornbeam Stick dog chew toy Sniffe & Likkit – Scent-a-Message/Glove My Dog Tailor-Grace - Huskaloo The Green Poop Bag – eco poo bags (improved) Weenect – GPS Tracker for cats and dogs Wyld Cub – reversible harness for dogs Food/Treats Beco – wild boar dry food Burgess – Senisitive Senior/Excel Nature Snacks x 2 (Baked Treats & Meadow Munchies) Different Dog – low purine and phosphorous food Doggy Doggy Yum Yum – frozen treat for dogs Eden Holistic – Country Feast semi-moist Forthglade – 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Frozzys – frozen yoghurt dog treats Hownd – Plant Powered Super Food – wet and dry Innocent Hound – air dried complete dog food range Lucky & Prince – vegan sausage hemp treats/bio dog treats/dog bread Mealberry – Little One Green Valley Sticks Natures Menu – Natures Variety freeze dried Pawfect Foods – Cheescuits/Nature’s Kitchen Pedigree Wholesale – Yak cheese dog chews/Natures Deli Rocketo – dehydrated raw insects dog food/dehydrated raw organic plants Scoff Paper – edible cards (treats) Tailor-Grace - Oggi’s improved oven baking mixes Town & Country – Hi Life natural cat treats Walker & Drake – cold pressed dog food Wilsons – Premium Complete/cold pressed dog food Healthcare/Grooming Clydach Farm – Daily Dentals for Dogs Eden Holistic – joint support Henry & Co – organic grooming set Herbal Dog Co – dry shampoo range/Herbacare Gut Health Supp/natural brushing spray Pet Remedy – Boredom Buster Rocketo – organic dental stick/organic herbal extract Sniffe & Likkit –Woof Pack Tailor-Grace – Cyril’s goat soap Tropiclean – PerfectFur Vita Canis – skin relief shampoo www.petquip.com

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PETQUIP AWARDS 2022 will be laUNCHED AT pats sandown in maRCH 2022