Pet Industry News Winter 2023

new

Feed their IRresistabLe Nature

Editor’s Note

Avian and exotic pets have captivated our imaginations for centuries, enchanting us with their vibrant colours, unique personalities, and intriguing behaviours. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on these extraordinary creatures, providing valuable insights into their care, health, and the responsible practices that ensure their well-being. From species profiles to expert advice on nutrition and enrichment, our aim is to equip pet owners and professionals alike with the knowledge they need to provide the best possible care for these remarkable companions.

In recent years, sustainability has become a pivotal concern across industries worldwide, and the pet industry is no exception. With a growing awareness of the environmental impact associated with pet ownership, it is crucial that we explore innovative solutions that promote sustainability. In this edition, we delve into the initiatives taken by pet industry leaders to reduce their carbon footprint, implement eco-friendly packaging, and develop sustainable sourcing practices.

We also share comprehensive coverage of the recently held IndePet Conference, which provided retailers and suppliers with the opportunity to learn more about IndePet, the new initiatives it is launching, how it is supporting independent retailers, as well as plenty of opportunities to network, mingle, and enjoy Fiji. At this conference, Britney Westaway was recognised as IndePet’s Rising Star, and in this issue, we get to know Westaway, and hear about her lifetime in the industry.

For our Industry Spotlight, we talk to Hypro Premium Foods. Founded in 1998 by Australian farmers John Camilleri and Garry Jennings, Hypro Pet Foods started as a stock feed company servicing their own farming operations and the rural animal feed industry across the eastern states of Australia. And from its humble beginnings as a stock feed company, Hypro Pet Foods has grown into one of Australia’s leading pet food manufacturers.

Finally, we head to the harbourside city of Coffs Harbour to learn how combining a passion for animals and a desire to educate and give back to the local community has made Brontosaurus Pet Super Centre the thriving independent pet store it is today.

We strive to deliver content that serves as a trusted resource for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike, offering a comprehensive and insightful view of our ever-evolving industry.

We would like to express our gratitude to the esteemed contributors, industry leaders, and experts who have generously shared their knowledge, expertise, and experiences. Without their invaluable contributions, this magazine would not be possible.

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6 Pet Industry News Winter 2023

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Exclusive new DINE® FARM COLLECTION™ range, delivers farm-inspired flavours packed with nutritious ingredients.

RECENT YEARS have seen a significant shift towards healthier and more natural inspired food options for pets as owners become increasingly conscious of the quality and nutritional value of the food they provide their furry friends.

Recognising this trend, the makers of DINE® have released the FARM COLLECTION™ Range exclusively to the specialist channel. The range is masterfully prepared and made with high-quality ingredients designed to make both cats and their owners purr with delight.

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The FARM COLLECTION™ Range uses a high-quality meat as the primary ingredient, with a choice of chicken, turkey, or salmon, catering to the carnivorous nature of cats while also providing them with a proteinfilled and enjoyable mealtime.

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The DINE® Brand is the leading and fastest growing wet cat brand in Australian grocery, growing more than 2.3 times faster than the total wet category, and the addition of the DINE® FARM COLLECTION™ Range is sure to help that number grow.

As the product is available exclusively to the speciality channel, there will be no competition for this unique range from the major grocery chains, providing retailers with a unique and desirable product.

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To stock the DINE® FARM COLLECTION™ Range, retailers are encouraged to contact their local Mars sales representative to place an order. n

A Lifelong Love

A childhood spent in pet stores with her family has blossomed into a fulfilling career for Britney Westaway, but there is plenty more to come.

AT JUST 24 years of age, Britney Westaway, General Manager of Pet Destination in Parkwood, Queensland, is already making her mark on the Australian pet industry.

Having been named in Pet Industry News’ Young Guns list and as IndePet’s 2023 Rising Star, we wanted to spend a bit of time getting to know what makes Westaway tick.

Pet: What was growing up like?

Westaway: I am privileged to be able to say I had a childhood full of fun and have been fortunate enough to be surrounded by all kinds of animals over the years. My grandparents, Pam and Paul Westaway purchased The Pet Barn in 1994 – five years before I was born and in their first year of trade, they more than doubled the store’s revenue. The Pet Barn was a rapidly growing business, which meant all hands on deck. My mother and father both left their jobs to help run and grow that shop, which meant we spent a lot of time there as kids.

My mother’s parents have been heavily involved in horse racing due to my Poppy (her father), and his father, being jockeys.

Pet: What was your first job?

Westaway: My first job was, of course, working at The Pet Barn. I started accompanying my dad to work one Saturday a month when I was around 11 years old, wearing my very own uniform that I thought was the coolest thing ever.

My Mum and Dad opened Pet Destination in December of 2014 and whenever I wasn’t at school, I was at Pet Destination – and it has pretty much been like that ever since. I continued working at Pet Destination during my university studies and then when Covid hit, and my travel plans went out the window, I decided to put my hand up for the manager role that had recently presented itself after our previous manager relocated back to New Zealand.

I have dived headfirst into figuring out what needs improving in the store, and have had tunnel vision ever since. It has only really been over the last few months that I have lifted my head to look around at the progress I have made, and it was actually the ‘Young Guns’ feature that made me pause to reflect. It is so easy to get lost in the day-to-day when you run a small business and I am trying to make more of an effort to pause and reflect.

“A lot can be learned from the new generation; younger employees can improve old methods by providing their fresh take on a task. It can be hard taking advice from someone less experienced, however this must be done to continually grow. Leave the ego at the door, being open to new ideas is key.”

– Britney Westaway, General Manager, Pet Destination

Pet: Have you done much overseas travelling?

Westaway: In 2012, my dance school was asked to perform in Disneyland. We flipped sausages for a whole year to fundraise money to get over there. It was a trip of a lifetime, and I was only 12 years old. I have been fortunate to travel to Bali twice in the last few years, which has been awesome. I also have a long-awaited Europe trip planned for August this year where I will be bouncing around for five weeks with my sister. In the future, I’d love to attend international pet exhibitions such as SuperZoo and InterZoo.

Pet: What’s your current title at Pet Destination?

Westaway: I am General Manager, but just like most small business owners, I wear multiple hats within the company. I am responsible for everything from inventory to marketing, HR, customer service, and more. I am always looking for ways we can improve when it comes to running the store. I have only been managing for two years and in that time, I have been consistently working on and changing our systems and processes to improve efficiency. I am still learning how to delegate properly – probably my biggest flaw is being a perfectionist – but I am only just getting started on what I want to achieve.

Pet: What have been your career highlights so far?

Westaway: Being recognised as a Young Gun in the recent issue of Pet Industry News was definitely a highlight for me. Also, having the opportunity to work alongside Todd Clarkson and Tia Wishart and to see what they’re doing for IndePet.

The 2022 IndePet Conference at SeaWorld was also another one to mention.

Our Santa Photo Days at Pet Destination grow every year and those events are always the highlight of our year. We get to see so many new and existing members of our pet community come out with their pets for a photo with Santa, we joked about possibly needing two Santas next year.

Pet: What do you do in your spare time?

Westaway: In my spare time I like to go to the gym and if it’s a nice day I always try to get to the beach. I hang out with my friends, my boyfriend, and my family.

Pet: Who is in your family now?

Westaway: Currently I have a partner, my Dad, Mum, Kirah, Jayda, our three Bull Terriers; Eli, Luna, and Penny, Boo the British Shorthair, a turtle named Charlie, and Weasley the Woma Python. They all still live with my parents and sisters. I moved out of home in 2020 when I accepted the hard truth that travelling wasn’t going to be in the picture any time soon.

I currently have a pet fighting fish that lives on my desk at work. I spend the majority of my life at Pet Destination, so I am not allowing myself to bring a pet home until I have more of my own time to devote to an animal. I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by pets all day every day, so I get my fix.

Pet: What’s your advice for other retailers?

Westaway: Be a sponge, soak up all the wisdom you can attain from your elders. A lot can be learned from the new generation; younger employees can improve old methods by providing their fresh take on a task. It can be hard taking advice from someone less experienced, however this must be done to continually grow. Leave the ego at the door, being open to new ideas is key.

Pet: What’s your advice for those wanting to get involved in the pet industry?

Westaway: It is such a passionate and exciting industry to work in, anyone wanting to join should give it a try. There is so much to learn about pets and how to give them the best life in captivity, I learn something every day at work. There is always fun and new exciting products and educational tools popping up. If you love pets and learning – the pet industry is for you.

Pet: Where would you like to be in five years?

Westaway: By then we’ll probably be selling AI pets! Jokes aside, I would love to say that I’ve kicked my current goals and am working on bigger projects within the pet industry. n

“I started accompanying my dad to work one Saturday a month when I was around 11 years old, wearing my very own uniform that I thought was the coolest thing ever.”

– Britney Westaway, General Manager, Pet Destination

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Pioneering pet food

Thomas Oakley-Newell

FOUNDED IN 1998 by Australian farmers John Camilleri and Garry Jennings, Hypro Pet Foods started as a stock feed company servicing their own farming operations and the rural animal feed industry across the eastern states of Australia.

Over the years, Hypro has evolved into a leading pet food manufacturer, known for its commitment to quality and innovation.

Nestled in the heart of the Hawkesbury Valley in NSW, Hypro is proud of its origins and its service to the local communities, with John Camilleri, Managing Director of Hypro Pet Foods, saying it is these local roots that have allowed their team of experts to responsibly produce and source the nutrient-rich formulas that keep pets happy and healthy.

“We have been trusted and loved by pets and their owners for more than 20 years. We communicate with our customers regularly to understand what types of products they are wanting in the market.

“Since our humble beginnings, we have evolved and diversified our product offer. From feeding working dogs in rural Australia to premium and super premium offers to cater to every pet’s needs.”

Camilleri said the company are true pioneers of the pet food industry and are driven by innovation and bound by their commitment to quality, and that their perfect reputation of producing safe, nutritious pet foods continues to be the gold standard.

has grown into one of Australia’s leading pet food manufacturers.

Words

“We have been trusted and loved by pets and their owners for more than 20 years. We communicate with our customers regularly to understand what types of products they are wanting in the market.”

– John Camilleri, Managing Director, Hypro Pet Foods

L-R: Johnny Camilleri, John Camilleri, and Paul Camilleri

The Hypro Pet Foods team

In 2006, they collaborated with leading pet nutritionists to specially developed dog food formulas for working dogs under the Dogpro brand. These nutrient-dense products quickly gained popularity, becoming one of the best-selling dry dog foods in rural Australia and expanding distribution to more than 1,200 agribusiness retailers nationwide.

“Today, our products have expanded beyond the borders of Australia, reaching customers not only nationwide but also venturing into new territories such as Asia and the Pacific Islands.”

Market differentiation

Hypro stands out from other pet food manufacturers in several ways. As one of the few 100 per cent Australian-made and family-owned pet food companies in Australia, Hypro’s core business is solely focused on pet food production. This exclusive focus allows the company to invest its time, effort, and passion into creating exceptional products.

Camilleri is proud of their wide range of brands, ranging from working dog focused products in rural Australia to super premium products available in speciality shops.

“Great milestones for us include the launch of our first super premium kibble, Pure Life, the first in Australia, mixing kibble and freeze-dried meat, which is currently ranged in Petbarn.”

While Hypro’s core product line comprises dry dog and cat food, the company recently started running its first SKUs on a new wet food line, with the first brands in the pipeline for wet cat food being Pure Life and Hypro Premium.

The innovation doesn’t stop at the production line either, with Hypro recently collaborating with creative agency Percept to create a new corporate image and logo, reflecting their brand vision to inspire a passionate community of pet owners with safe and nutrient-rich products.

Challenges and opportunities

The impact of Covid on the supply chain and staffing brought with it a unique set of challenges, of which Hypro responded

Another challenge Hypro faced was having to adapt to changing consumer behaviours and the surge in online shopping, which saw the company launch its own e-commerce platform, Paw Pantry.

“The boom in pet ownership, the supply chain challenges, and demand for Australian made products, made us think strategically about how we wanted to distribute our products. With the explosion of online shopping, we worked on our very own e-commerce platform,” explained Camilleri.

In addition to the launch of Paw Pantry, Hypro has set itself the lofty goal of establishing itself as the global leader in the pet food industry, renowned for its commitment to innovation and high-quality products.

To achieve this goal, Hypro recognised that consumers are now placing a greater emphasis on producing products in an eco-friendly way, and Camilleri said Hypro understands the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

“In the coming two years, the company plans to implement eco-friendly practices throughout its operations, minimising its carbon footprint and utilising sustainable sourcing methods. By prioritising the health of both pets and the planet, Hypro aims to set new industry standards and inspire others to follow suit.”

Identifying trends

Looking at the entirety of the pet industry, Camilleri has identified three trends that he believes will shape the 2023 pet food industry.

Firstly, functional and specialised diets tailored to specific health conditions such as weight management, mental health, joint health, allergies, and sensitive digestion are gaining popularity.

“The boom in pet ownership, the supply chain challenges, and demand for Australian made products, made us think strategically about how we wanted to distribute our products.”

Pet Foods

“Just like in human nutrition, functional ingredients and specialised diets are gaining popularity in the pet food industry.”

Secondly, there is a growing demand for sustainable and ecofriendly pet food options, including packaging made from recycled materials, responsibly sourced ingredients, and waste reduction.

“As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their choices, there is a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly pet food options.”

Finally, Camilleri believes advancements in technology are enabling personalised nutrition for pets, with companies developing innovative solutions such as genetic testing and customised meal plans to meet individual pet’s specific nutritional needs.

With a proud history of producing high-quality pet foods for more than two decades, Hypro looks well placed to tackle whatever trends and challenges the coming year brings and will remain committed to innovation, sustainability, and the wellbeing of both pets and their owners. n

– John Camilleri, Managing Director, Hypro

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A passion for pets

Words Thomas Oakley-Newell

NESTLED IN the regional city of Coffs Harbour in NSW’s mid-north coast, Brontosaurus Pet Super Centre has been under the care of Prue and Jock Fisher since 2011.

With a passion for pets and a deep-rooted love for animals, the Fishers embarked on a journey to create a pet store that would be a one-stop destination for all things furry, feathery, scaly, and finned. Over the years, Brontosaurus has evolved, expanded, and become an integral part of the lives of countless pet parents.

Prue Fisher, Owner of Brontosaurus Pet Super Centre, said they want all customers to have a positive and interactive experience when coming to the store.

“We encourage our customers to bring in their pets, so they too can enjoy the Brontosaurus experience. Our staff are super passionate about pets and love helping customers be the best pet parents they can be.

“We want to match the right person or family to the right pet to ensure they enjoy the many benefits of bringing a pet into their life. We are solution focused and aim for all customers to leave with a new piece of info that may help them be a better pet parent.”

Brontosaurus is not just a store; it’s a reflection of a local family’s love for animals. The Fishers, along with their three children, can often be found at the store, personally attending to customers and their pets’ needs. With a menagerie of their own at home, they understand the laughter, responsibility, and unconditional love that pets bring into people’s lives.

“We are passionate about educating people on being the best pet parents they can be to ensure their pets live happy healthy lives. We love it when people bring their Bronto babies back in-store for cuddles, weigh-ins, nail trims, baths, or just to say hi, as it gives us such a unique opportunity to maintain a relationship with the animal for its life,” explained Fisher.

Combining a passion for animals and a desire to educate and give back to the local community has made Brontosaurus Pet Super Centre the thriving independent pet store it is today.

Mia Harrison and Issy Fisher with Golden Retriever puppies

Caption to come

In-store experience

Upon stepping into Brontosaurus Pet Super Centre, one is greeted by a vibrant and colourful space that mirrors the store’s logo. The layout has been meticulously designed to guide customers through various animal departments, keeping them engaged at every turn.

“Each department has an animal enclosure and products for that animal. Fish are displayed on the right-hand side of the shop, which you walk past to get to the grooming room, puppies, and birds. Dog and fish sections are at the front of the shop as they are the most popular department. Big bags of dog food and poultry food are at the front of the shop for ease.”

What sets Brontosaurus apart from its competitors is its extensive range of products and the expertise of their staff. With Katie Sippel, Manager of Brontosaurus, boasting more than 20 years of experience, customers can trust the guidance and advice they receive.

“We like to source products from smaller suppliers with unique products and to promote Australian made products. We also sell animals, so there is an immediate point of difference – you can see them, hear them, smell them, and interact with them. Whether it’s a rescue kitten or cat, a hand raised bird, a rabbit, or a fish – the vibrancy and life that animals bring to the store is a definite point of difference.”

Like any business, Brontosaurus has faced its fair share of challenges. Relocating the store in 2013 was a daunting task, but with the support of

their incredible staff, they managed to transition smoothly to new premises located nearby.

“We spent many a late night wheeling, driving, and carrying stock from one premises to the next. It was a very hectic few months but well worth it.”

Another hurdle that had to be tackled head-on was the negative perceptions some people associate with pet stores.

“We believe that pet shops play a vital role in maintaining the standard of animal welfare and educating customers about pet health. People

“We want to match the right person or family to the right pet to ensure they enjoy the many benefits of bringing a pet into their life. We are solution focused and aim for all customers to leave with a new piece of info that may help them be a better pet parent.” –

Prue Fisher, Owner, Brontosaurus Pet Super Centre

L-R: Amie Chinchio, Emily Alexander, and Katie Sippel

Issy Fisher with a cockatiel

to ensure their

and

and our

Community minded

The store has already achieved significant milestones in recent years, such as being crowned the Just For Pets Retailer of the Year in both 2014 and 2021.

“We have been members of Just for Pets throughout the whole time we have owned the store, which has been invaluable to us given it was a steep learning curve. Just For Pets has provided us with networking, marketing, and buying opportunities to ensure our business continues to be successful, something we would not have been able to achieve on our own.”

Moreover, they have successfully weathered the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring the wellbeing of their staff and customers throughout.

But their commitment to animals doesn’t end at their store’s walls; Brontosaurus has also partnered with a rescue group and successfully rehomed more than 1000 cats and kittens, ensuring they find loving forever homes.

“We believe giving back to our local community, who support us, is super important. We sponsor the local rugby union and hockey clubs and lots of gift vouchers and pooch packs have been provided for local schools and pre-schools. We also do a local shout out on Sunday on social media as supporting local business is the key to

“We believe that pet shops play a vital role in maintaining the standard of animal welfare and educating customers about pet health. People want pets, and we believe that a pet shop is a great avenue to acquire one, rather than the internet, which offers no options for follow up questions or care.”

– Prue Fisher, Owner, Brontosaurus Pet Super Centre

health

wellbeing

staff have a wealth of knowledge and enjoy sharing this expertise.”

The Fisher family: Issy, Prue, Charlie, Jock, and Jonty Jock and Jonty Fisher examining the fish tanks

Birds, Bunnies, and Beardies

The

Words Thomas Oakley-Newell

WITH MORE Australians living in apartments than ever before, traditional pets such as cats and dogs are sometimes not the most suitable.

But this doesn’t mean these owners need to miss out on the companionship provided by a pet and are instead turning to alternative pets such as birds, reptiles, and small mammals, which often require far less space and are perfect for the urban family.

According to Animal Medicines Australia’s Pets in Australia study, 11

more than just the one animal, with 54 per cent of bird owners having more

homes offering an ideal opportunity to bring a new animal into their family.

“This trend extended across the board including avian, reptile, small animals and even invertebrates. In the past six to 12 months, with the sharply rising cost of living, people are thinking twice before bringing a new animal into their life and demand has definitely reduced.”

Dessen said at Kellyville Pets, the most popular exotic pets would include reptiles, in particular the central bearded dragon and small pythons such as spotted and children’s pythons.

“When it comes to birds, nothing can beat the humble budgie, along with small hand raised parrots such as cockatiels, princess parrots, conures and quakers.”

Emma Mitchell-Collett, PETstock Live Specialist, said that since Covid, they’ve seen an increase in people owning more exotic pets.

“The latest PETstock Pet Parent report shows that when it comes to types of pets, the family dog is still Australia’s number one pet, but cohabitating with reptiles, birds, fish and even spiders is growing more common and confirms a trend towards smaller pets.”

Sam Brown, Executive Manager at iPetz, a wholesale business, which specialises in reptiles, said that in the reptile category, bearded dragons and smaller python species are the most popular.

pet boom coupled with urbanisation has seen a growth in the number of less space-consuming pets such as avian and exotic.

“Most importantly, stores that wish to find homes for exotic pets need qualified and experienced staff with a wealth of practical, hands-on experience working with each animal type.” – Ben Dessen, Retail Manager, Kellyville Pets

handle when handled regularly. The smaller pythons such as children’s pythons and eastern small-blotched pythons only grow to around a metre in length, so only need a small enclosure and again are generally good to handle if handling is practiced from a hatchling stage.”

Brown has also seen interest in frogs as well as reptiles increase over the past few years as they cater for the busy, time and space poor pet lover who still wants to enjoy the benefits of a pet without the higher level of commitment.

“Typically, these species require smaller spaces and less care time than a cat or dog. They are also relatively quiet, making them appealing to both keeper and neighbour alike. The exception perhaps would be frogs during breeding time.”

Creature comforts

While most people know what products and services are required when caring for a dog or cat, the first-time owner of an avian or exotic pet should be doing their research and ensuring their setups are correct for the animal they’re keeping.

Melinda Cowan, Avian Specialist and Exotics Veterinarian at Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) said the care of more unusual pets can be challenging compared to dogs and cats.

“Many birds and exotic pets can be high maintenance, requiring specific diets and environments. Reptiles, in particular, have species specific housing requirements that are essential for the health of the pet. Parrots and many other exotic pets also have strong emotional and social needs.

“Health care can be challenging for birds and exotic pets

since many are considered prey animals. This means that they hide signs of illness or injuries, often until the problem has become advanced. At this stage, there are also very limited options for pet insurance for these animals.”

Cowan explained that many health problems found in exotic pets unfortunately develop as a direct result of incorrect diet or housing.

“We see overgrown teeth in rabbits and guinea pigs that are fed a diet deficient in high quality hay. Reptiles are often seen with bone deformities or severe bacterial infections because they have not been kept with the correct UV lighting or heating. We also encounter many behavioural problems that occur as a result of captivity, especially in parrots.”

Matthew Seychell, Manager at Pets Unleashed, said it is important to consider the size of the terrarium and growth potential of the animal being considered.

“Consider the time you must spend with said animal and maintenance for enclosure. Consideration needs to be given around obtaining the correct license and ensuring that they undertake any courses if required.”

Brown emphasised the importance of doing research, as although time and maintenance can be low, the initial set up costs can be high, and it is important that this is done correctly.

“Work out first where the interest lies and find out how big an animal will get and whether the person has the resources and space to accommodate this. Often first-time owners will purchase an animal in its juvenile stage and some of the pythons, for example, can get very large.”

The criticalness of providing the right environment

Sam Brown

“Typically, these species require smaller spaces and less care time than a cat or dog. They are also relatively quiet, making them appealing to both keeper and neighbour alike.”

– Sam Brown, Executive Manager, iPetz

for these pets, is a reason why Brown and iPetz focus on ready-to-go packages that are easy for the customer to take home, plug in and use, and they contain the correct equipment for the species they are keeping.

“Initially, the most important products and accessories a customer should take home (if they haven’t set up already) is an appropriate enclosure with correct heating, lighting, and thermostat control. This is the imperative basic requirements that should be met prior to a customer taking the animal from the store.”

Dessen said that with such a wide array of exotic and avian pets available, all with vastly differing husbandry requirements, it is crucial that people do thorough research about the species they are considering caring for.

“Non-negotiable products and accessories would include a suitable enclosure, heating/lighting (for reptiles and amphibians), specialised diets, enrichment, and enclosure furnishings.”

In-store care

Before the pets reach their future homes, they are cared for by the staff of the store they’re in, so it is important that team members understand the appropriate care and husbandry required.

Dessen explained that these animals require specialised in-store care with suitable housing, diet, and husbandry routines.

“Most importantly, stores that wish to find homes for exotic pets need qualified and experienced staff with a wealth of practical, hands-on experience working with each animal type.”

Seychell agrees that a properly trained member of staff should be responsible for the care of these animals.

“There needs to be daily feeding and health checks with someone trained on healthcare and maintenance,

The importance of feeding high-quality insects

There are categories of insects that owners can feed their pets – live and processed. Phillip Kerr, Managing Director at Minibeasts Enterprises, said live insects are seen as mentally stimulating for pets and provide high nutritional value, and species such as amphibians, insectivorous birds, and lizards, require live prey items to stimulate their feeding response.

Minibeasts also offer freeze-dried insects as an alternative. The highestquality processed insects are freeze-dried, which retains all the nutrients, as opposed to baking, which many other providers offer.

Kerr explained that many factors go into transporting live insects, from packing, temperature, humidity, airflow, packing materials, and handling during packing and transport.

“At Minibeasts Enterprises we have four vans at our disposal, supplying state-wide weekly, with van drivers who are trained how to pack vans correctly, adjust for temperature changes, and ensure our insects arrive in the utmost highest condition.”

To find out more about Minibeasts, retailers can contact Stacey Wayne, Sales Manager, at admin@minibeastsenterprises.com.au or (03) 5281 1776.

as well as regular temperature checks and light changing. Some species also need individual housing to avoid fighting and aggression.”

Mitchell-Collett said that in-store care at PETstock involves both daily and weekly routines to ensure the health of the animals.

“Daily, we do health checks, spot cleans, replacing food and water and interaction throughout the day as well as detailed record keeping. Weekly, we do a deep clean and an enclosure refresh. In-store, the animals are treated as though they are our own pets and are provided with the highest standard of welfare, care, and love.”

Speaking about the sale of reptiles and frogs, Brown said that enclosures must be immaculate and feature all the basic elements that fulfill the animal’s needs.

“Animals should be in good condition with records kept of feeding and any other healthcare. In the case of reptiles and frogs, it is essential to offer an appropriate range of enclosures in various sizes, featuring products that can heat and regulate an environment’s temperature, and products that emit the correct lighting.”

Laying down the law

As laws and regulations around the keeping of avian and exotic pets vary from state to state, it is imperative that the retailer is well-informed, for both their and the consumer’s sake.

Brown said that these laws and permit systems are there to protect the animals, which is important to the continued success and sustainability of keeping these animals in captivity.

“Overall, we support this idea as this reflects both our passion for these animals as well as our ability to continue to grow in this industry. There will always be sections or features of legislation that could be improved or changed but for the most part the system works and achieves what it sets out to do.”

Seychell agrees that most laws and regulations have been introduced with animal welfare in mind, but there are some he would disagree with.

“The import/export permit for NSW is outdated, with NSW the only state required to pay these permits. Also, the regulations around buying from WA is allowed but selling to WA is prohibited.”

For Dessen, he would like to see specialised stores in NSW such as Kellyville Pets permitted to carry a wider variety of unique pets, such as a broader range of reptile species as well as suitable amphibians.

“Specialised stores can provide a one-stop-shop to customers including healthy, ethically bred animals, expert advice and education as well as a myriad of high-quality husbandry products and equipment.”

Mitchell-Collett said another challenge is keeping up with the supply and demand and ensuring they are sourcing from only the most ethical and loving breeders.

“Supply and demand for the products needed to keep these animals happy is increasing so yes, it’s a challenge, but also an opportunity for range expansion and new supplier relationships.” n

Why team up with us?

Unrivalled Customer Service

We are passionate about building positive long-term relationships with our clients . We pride ourselves on high quality service, treating our clients as valued business partners rather than just a customer.

Silent Partners

We create win / win / win / win scenarios. That means for every change we make in the business, it must create a win for the animal being fed / the animals’ caregiver / the retailer selling our products / and our business. Making any decision that creates a losing situation in any of these areas, will cause us to go back and re-evaluate.

A Bank of Knowledge at your Disposal

Apart from breeding and processing millions of insects and thousands of rodents each week , we work with clients one-on-one to educate staff and the public to maximise instore product shelf life. This in turn reduces customer complaints and allows retailers to sell based on value.

A Simple Sales Strategy

We allow our products to speak for themselves. Longer Lasting Crickets. How long do the crickets you currently buy live for?

Ours last a minimum of 4 weeks! How do we compare?

A greener future

Words Thomas Oakley-Newell

THE IMPACTS of climate change are being felt and seen around the world in devastating measures, from flooding in India, droughts in Europe, to bushfires here in our own backyard.

With concern growing about how to not only manage, but prevent, these catastrophes, companies are under increasing pressure to reduce their impact towards climate change.

In the pet industry, this means innovative companies are finding novel ways of creating products that reduce their environmental impact, from sourcing new forms of raw materials such as insects or grains, to using compostable or recyclable materials, to giving back to the planet to help balance their carbon offset.

It is a complicated process, but it is an important one. Businesses must identify a solution that reduces their environmental impact but also does not considerably damage their bottom line.

Recent research by IRI has identified that 55 per cent of Australians try to buy environmentally friendly products, and that this trend rings true across all age demographics – from empty nesters to families with young kids through to retired couples.

Daniel Bone, Insights Director, IRI, said that the research highlights the need for brands to not only understand the complexities and characteristics of a sustainability mindset but also be able to respond through action in a meaningful way to attract a greater share of shoppers spend.

“Shoppers have spoken in the strongest possible terms about their views on sustainability – they want to save the planet and feel that they can help do this on a daily basis by making informed and proactive purchasing decisions with their food and grocery shopping.”

Setting targets

Many companies and brands publicly display their sustainability targets and achievements to demonstrate they are taking the right steps to ensuring a prosperous future.

Mars Petcare has set a science-based climate target to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across its full value chain by 2050, including all scope three emissions (as defined by SBTi) such as those created by agriculture and suppliers, through to emissions from consumers using its brands.

An increased, and warranted, emphasis on sustainability in the pet industry is driving brands and businesses to create the change they want to see.

“All of our products use carbon positive, single protein sources, which not only reduces our carbon footprint and environmental toxic load, but also is great for the health of dogs.” – Stephanie Stubbe, Founder, AniPal

Stephanie Stubbe, AniPal

General Manager, Mars Petcare Australia

Craig Sargeant, General Manager of Mars Petcare Australia, said their pledge accelerates the existing long-term goals Mars has set to reducing absolute emissions from its entire business footprint, eliminating deforestation from its supply chain, and transitioning to 100 per cent renewable energy.

“The majority of our footprint is associated with ingredients within our supply chain and scope three emissions, so we know that by forming partnerships with key suppliers, including local farmers we can have a beneficial long-term effect.”

Sargeant pointed to the Cool Soil initiative as an example of where Mars has invested in farm resilience.

“Created by Mars and the Sustainable Food Lab as a pilot program to use data to inform soil health, the program has a long-term goal of reducing our reliance on fertilizers and the associated emissions.

“It’s a flagship program for Mars’ sustainability teams that gives hope to our buying team who were challenged to operate as grain supply fluctuated with cataclysmic weather events.”

For less established brands such as The Paw Grocer, measuring sustainability is more about taking the necessary steps to ensure that they’re doing everything they possibly can to reduce contributions to landfill.

Jenny Richards, Founder of The Paw Grocer, said sustainability is incredibly important to her business, and that it will always be front of mind as the business scales.

“Whenever we’re considering a new product, we take sustainability into account and we’re always seeking proteins which would otherwise find their way to landfill. Our chicken wing tips, for example, are a byproduct, which would otherwise be dumped. We also endeavour to procure our meats as close to our freeze dry facility as possible to reduce our carbon paw print.”

While ingredients are something Richards has greater control over, when it comes to packaging, Richards said it is largely out of their hands because they’re dealing with raw meat products.

“We rely on the innovation in this sector. There’s a lot of green-washing

going on, whereby brands make grand claims about their biodegradable packaging. In many instances, it’s well and truly over-stated.”

Changing times

Just as humans are changing their diets to create more sustainable outcomes, so too are owners changing the dietary habits of their pets, by choosing pet food not only for its nutritional value but also for its impact on the environment.

AniPal is a brand that was created as a vehicle to rethink and redesign everyday things used in the vet and pet industries to enable pet owners to drive positive, sustainable change.

Stephanie Stubbe, Founder of AniPal, said that a key sustainability issue in the pet industry includes the carbon footprint of a pet’s diet.

“The use of prime human grade meat cuts and ingredients in diets of dogs, uses up a lot of resources including land, energy, and water and this is a main reason a dog’s environmental footprint can be huge. Additionally, with extra things a dog can have like accessories, toys and grooming items, the environmental impact grows again.”

AniPal uses novel proteins in all products including hypoallergenic Australian, organic farmed seaweed and hypoallergenic insect protein.

“All of our products use carbon positive, single protein sources, which not only reduces our carbon footprint and environmental toxic load, but also is great for the health of dogs,” explained Stubbe.

While feeding your pet sustainable pet food is an important part of the process, what happens at the other end? Because what goes in, must come out.

This is where Beco, a brand which produces a range of eco-friendly dog poop bags and has recently been recognised as Climate Neutral and certified as a B-Corp, steps in.

George Bramble, Founder of Beco, said he has seen a growing trend of customers purchasing ‘greener’ products compared to when the brand first launched in 2009.

“The majority of our footprint is associated with ingredients within our supply chain and scope three emissions, so we know that by forming partnerships with key suppliers, including local farmers we can have a beneficial long-term effect.”

– Craig Sargeant,

“There is a fine line of balance and trade-off between material and impact and if Beco can lean towards a material or production process that has a reduced environmental impact, while maintaining a good level of product function and durability, they will. ”

– George Bramble, Founder of Beco

Bramble was attending the UK dog show Crufts and was advertising a small range of bamboo dog bowls, when a customer approached asking

“With her stating how much she liked the look/feel of the bowls, I was sure I had made the sale – they were already in her bag. However, when asking the price she needed to pay for her two new Beco bowls, she exclaimed that it was ‘too much’ and asked ‘what are they made from?’.

“I, of course, explained both the strength and sustainability benefits with the bowls being made from offcuts of bamboo chopsticks, and that the price was only minimally higher than other bowls on the market. She wasn’t having any of it, took the bowls out from her bag and walked off.”

Thankfully, that wasn’t a sign of things to come and consumer appreciation for sustainable products has come in leaps and bounds, with Beco launching a 100 per cent PostConsumer Recycled (PCR) Plastic material for its unscented and scented poop bag range.

“This all came from some research that showed that around 96 per cent of dog owners dispose of their used poop bags in general waste or park bins.”

This statistic got Bramble and the Beco team thinking, because if all those bags are going into landfill, then none of them are breaking down.

“Therefore, our best solution for dog owners who throw away their bags into general waste, is to use our 100 per cent PCR plastic bags. These are 44 per cent more energy efficient to produce, they reduce the bags’ carbon footprint by 86 per cent and gives plastic a second life.

“Making the decision to move to 100 per cent post-consumer plastic, is an example of how we’ve changed our thought process into manufacturing and designing products based around understanding the total product lifecycle.”

Overcoming challenges

Many of the challenges to sustainability have not been faced before, mainly because the importance of sustainability had not been considered seriously until recently.

The methods for achieving these targets are not simple and often involve innovative new technologies and practices, all which costs money.

Bramble explains that these challenges are often as simple as weighing up cost vs function vs durability.

“For example, you can use an incredibly sustainable material, which has very low impact on the environment in production, but the durability may be impaired because of the material you have chosen to use. On the flipside, you can use incredibly durable materials that are terrible for the environment.”

There is a fine line of balance and trade-off between material and impact, says Bramble, and if Beco can lean towards a material or production process that has a reduced environmental impact, while maintaining a good level of product function and durability, they will.

Educating the public about the importance of utilising sustainable products is another challenge that Stubbe and AniPal have recognised.

“Generally, in the human health care industries, health and wellbeing is becoming increasingly popular, however it’s taking some time for the same consumer to be aware of the environmental footprint and health detriments dogs can have in both their nutrition and day to day life.

“We find consumers really engage with our educational information as well as insights about our ingredients, farming partners and journey of our organisation. This helps more and more people to choose greener, sustainable, and healthy food sources for their pets.”

Sargeant said that at Mars Petcare, they hold the belief that the world they want tomorrow starts with how they do business today, and they are continuously looking for ways they can be more sustainable.

“This includes the best way to source raw materials such as fish or grains, using recyclable materials wherever possible, and accelerating our use of renewable energy to ensure every part of our operations and extended supply chains help people and the planet thrive.

“At the same time, we recognise that fixing these issues is a generational challenge, which is why we are building lasting partnerships with our ecosystem of suppliers, to make a better world for the next generation of pet owners to enjoy.” n

What’s New?

Brand news and promotions.

Eternity Pebble now available through Talking Stones

Talking Stones has been appointed as the exclusive distributor of Eternity Pebble for the pet industry in Australia.

Eternity Pebble is a ceramic urn that features a contemporary and organic hollow design, complemented by a tealight candle holder, that allows owners to discreetly keep the ashes of their beloved pet.

Selected by Eternity Pebble as the exclusive national distributor, Talking Stones was chosen due to its exceptional market leadership in Australia’s pet memorialisation industry, which provides the widest reach in the Australian pet market for both B2B and B2C segments.

James Rae, Managing Director of Talking Stones, said they are constantly searching for innovative and high-quality memorialisation products that complement their existing range.

“After conducting consumer testing, we found that the Eternity Pebble offers a sophisticated and attractive approach to indoor stone keepsakes, aligning perfectly with our brand values.”

Talking Stones has been a market leader in the Australian pet memorialisation industry for more than 20 years and has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and recognised brands for everlasting memorial products due to its use of the highest-grade materials and superior workmanship.

Richard Burrows, Founder of Eternity Pebble, said he was seeking a distribution partner with extensive visibility and a reputation for delivering unrivalled customer service.

Given Talking Stones’ ability in addressing changing consumer preferences and pushing boundaries in the funeral and death care sector, Burrows believes Talking Stones was the ideal choice to distribute Eternity Pebble.

Talking Stones is already the exclusive distributor for several leading international brands of memorial products, and the addition of the Eternity Pebble further establishes its position as an industry leader.

To stock the Eternity Pebble, retailers are encouraged to visit talkingstones.com.au or call 1300 606 605.

Meet The Paw Grocer’s Black Label, exclusive to Pet Specialty

You may already be familiar with The Paw Grocer’s White Label and Bikkies range, so what’s so different about the Black Label?

The ultra-luxe Black Label is a premium, freeze-dried range of dog treats that include single, novel proteins sourced from 100 per cent Australian produce. There are four SKUs in the Black Label range, let’s explore these further.

Freeze-Dried Duck Hearts: Duck Hearts are rich in iron, they provide dogs with a lean, easy to digest protein source and are a great source of amino acids, which help to support strong muscles. They are packed full of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals and are gentle on the tummies.

Freeze-Dried Duck Liver: Duck Liver is an excellent option for dogs who have allergies to chicken or sensitive stomachs. Novel proteins like duck may help alleviate gastrointestinal upsets or skin irritation and are a good source of vitamin A, iron, and selenium, not to mention are twice as rich in vitamin B12 as chicken liver and have up to 10 times as much vitamin D.

Freeze-Dried Goat Offal: Goat is hypoallergenic and easy to digest, which makes it a good choice for dogs with allergies or skin irritations, and is extremely nutritious with high protein, iron, selenium, and riboflavin. Novel proteins like goat may help alleviate gastrointestinal upsets or skin irritation.

Freeze-Dried Beef Kidney: Beef Kidney is a low-fat source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle development and maintenance. Rich in minerals such as iron and zinc, it is a good source of vitamins A, B12 and D which are important for a dog’s overall health.

But that’s not all… Freeze-drying these single ingredient treats retains the nutritional benefits of the human grade 100 per cent Australian protein and are free from added colours, fillers, gluten, grain, dairy, salt, oils or preservatives. Best of all, they’re functional treats with naturally occurring vitamins and minerals such as omegas, chondroitin and glucosamine.

How amazing is that!?

Contact Number 1 Australia today to find out how you can get your hands on The Paw Grocer’s Black Label or visit number-1.net.au.

Val Bonney’s definitive guide to dog ownership

Esteemed canine behaviourist and international dog trainer

Val Bonney has released a series of books to help owners become the most knowledgeable pup parent possible.

Bonney, the Founder of Bonnies Dog Obedience and Puppy School, has more than 50 years’ experience with training, obedience, agility, and much more, and is considered one of Australia’s leading dog trainers.

The books, Who’s The Boss?, Are You Still The Boss?, and Hey Baby – Who’s The Boss?, are a definitive guide for dog owners at different stages in their life, whether they own one dog, multiple dogs, or have just had a baby.

The first, Who’s the Boss?, gives owners a total understanding of what makes a dog tick. Bonney explains that dogs are not like humans. They don’t walk, talk, or think like people. It is important to understand and learn about the dog to know how it thinks and reacts. It is not enough to just have a dog and look after it, knowledge will provide owners with the best companion they could ever possibly have.

For multiple dog owners, Are you still the boss?, covers all topics in the first book, plus learning how to differentiate between the types of aggression that dogs have and best treat and maintain the role owners need to have when living with a pack of dogs.

dog before the baby arrives in order to have it totally adjusted to how life will be different before the baby comes home. No more pushing the dog away or being irritated by its actions, Bonney teaches owners how to live in harmony with dog and baby. For information on how to stock Bonney’s range of books, please contact Val Bonney at info@bonnies.com.au.

Double the benefits with Goat On A Rope

Loving Pets’ latest release, Goat On A Rope, combines the dental benefits of a goat horn treat with the enrichment and interactive benefits of a toy rope.

With nothing else like it in Australia, the unique product provides a two-in-one opportunity for our four-legged friends. The goat horns are full of keratin rich proteins which promote a silky, shiny coat, and the need to gnaw on the goat horn can help effectively clean a dog’s teeth and gums by reducing plaque and tartar build-up.

Goat On A Rope, the ingenious name thought up by Mark Littler, also offers owners the ability to participate in interactive play with their dog. By incorporating a rope toy with a goat horn treat, the bond between owner and dog can be strengthened while also providing them with mental and physical stimulation.

With impressive longevity and durability, there’s no need to worry that Goat On A Rope will be chewed up in the first day. Rope toys are typically sturdy and durable, making them suitable for rough play and extended use and when combined with a goat horn treat, the overall product tends to last longer, providing dogs with an extended period of enjoyment and chewing satisfaction.

Goat On A Rope is available directly from Loving Pets Australia, a largely wholesale company, that is frequently expanding its range and offering stores a wide variety of new products to select from.

The product has already received great feedback from numerous pet

RRP of $24.95, which offers retailers a 100 per cent mark up.

To stock Goat On A Rope or any of the other great products from the Loving Pets range please contact Loving Pets on 1300 475 090 or email sales@lovingpetsproducts.com.au. Visit lovingpetsproducts.com.au to check out all the products.

Scientifically formulated Cherish Pet Food extends it range

Cherish Pet Food, Australia’s own scientific premium pet food, is excited to launch its 8kg Amazing Adult and 8kg Mindful Mature Small Bites to add to its existing range of pet food.

Scientifically formulated using Australian farmed ingredients, the

small bites range is aimed at providing quality nutrition to your smaller or senior canine companions.

Cherish Pet Food is packed full of superfoods: antioxidant rich blueberries, cranberries, and turmeric; two types of prebiotics to assist gut health and immune function; and the allimportant brain boosting combination of medium chain triglycerides (extracted from coconut oil), DHA, amino acids, selenium and iodine to support brain function. A scientific balanced blend of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids, with high levels of EPA is also included for healthy skin and a shiny coat. It is gluten free and low GI for sustained energy throughout the day, and the protein level is perfectly balanced to maintain muscle mass and healthy bones. Being a complete and balanced food, it’s the only source of nutrition your dog needs.

Made in an Australian-owned AS-5812 certified manufacturing facility and with every ingredient safely within the acceptable range of intake as set by Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), you can be assured Cherish Pet Food meets the nutritional requirements of your pet with the quality you expect. Please visit cherishpetfood.com.au/wholesalers to locate a wholesaler in your state.

Coachi the new consumer friendly training range

Making training easy, approachable, and fun for all!

Company of Animals had the desire to create a training range that was consumer friendly, simple to shop and most importantly easy to use and understand. Suitable for all puppies and dogs aged eight weeks and over, the Coachi range is perfect for tackling challenges presented to all new and existing dog owners, as well as providing new innovation for those more experienced, dog trainers and professionals.

To support dog owners in their product choices, the range has been uniquely divided into three simple colour coded categories: Learn, Play and Fun & Tricks, to cover all stages of dog training and development.

Learn: Recall and manners, is the first stage and focuses on learning the basics of social behaviour through positive and rewarding experiences.

Play: Play and reward, is the second stage and focuses on engaging through play to develop a positive and happy relationship with our dogs. Play with a purpose.

Fun & Tricks: Tricks and retrieval, is the last stage and is all about offering our pets extra fun, strengthening the bond between dog and owner, and building the relationship further, helping us all to raise confident dogs.

The Chase & Treat, from Company of Animals’ new play range is already proving to be a real winner for both dogs and their owners. This mentally stimulating toy can be filled with treats to encourage interaction for those dogs less interested in toys, great for motivating dogs to play and chase.

For more information, please contact ordersau@wearecoa.com or visit companyofanimals.com

A Fancy Feast for felines

Featuring a wide variety of flavour options, the Fancy Feast Classic range allows shoppers to quickly and easily purchase cat food that will keep their feline friend happy and healthy.

Available in an extensive portfolio of flavours, with the most popular being Fancy Feast Grilled Chicken Feast in Gravy, the range features an array of delicious and mouth-watering meals in a variety of flavours and textures, meaning there is something for every cat.

Fancy Feast Classic Grilled Chicken Feast in Gravy is a highly palatable, gourmet wet cat food made for adult cats. Grilled cuts made with chicken, slow cooked to perfection and basted in a savory gravy.

The range of cat food products in the Fancy Feast portfolio is extensive, with a number of options including both wet and dry. Each recipe comes in an easy-to-open and easy-to-serve 85g tins, multipacks, and 50g pouches.

The pawfect solution for peace of mind

All Fancy Feast Classic recipes are 100 per cent complete and balanced, with the goodness of high protein and the essential vitamins and minerals your cat needs, making mealtimes delicious and nutritious.

During Covid, the pet space grew substantially, with research by Animal Medicines Australia (AMA) revealing nearly 70 per cent of Australian households now have a pet.

This huge number of pet-loving Australians means an increased number of consumers are in search of convenient purchases of pet food. Purina has identified a shift away from multi-serve wet cat food and has seen a significant uplift in single serve options, which the Fancy Feast Classics range caters to with a convenient and competitively priced option. The Fancy Feast Classics range retails for $1.90 and is available through The Distributors.

In today’s fast-paced world it’s not uncommon to experience a sense of FOMO, or fear of missing out, when it comes to our pets. We worry about their safety and well-being, especially when they’re outside of our direct supervision.

Recollo’s latest product, the FOMO dog or cat tag, has been released to give owners peace of mind that wherever their pet goes, they can easily be contacted and reunited with their furry friend.

Using QR code-based technology, the FOMO tag allows the owner to register their details at an online portal and if their dog or cat goes missing, the person who finds them simply scans the QR code and is provided with the owner’s details.

Given such a large portion of the population is currently renting or frequently moving, sometimes being microchipped simply isn’t enough.

Should the owner go on holiday and leave their pet with a friend or family member, the FOMO tag allows owners to easily access and update the contact details to whoever is in care of the pet.

Using no batteries, apps, or serial numbers, the FOMO dog tag is simple to use and requires no ongoing maintenance, enabling owners to simply register and forget, but can rest assured that should their pet go missing, they can be easily contacted.

In addition to the owner’s details being accessible through the QR code, owners can also upload information about their pet such as likes and dislikes to help the scanner know best how to care for the pet until they can be reunited with their owner.

Retailers interested in stocking the FOMO tag can contact Recollo at hello@recolloqr.com or visit recollqr.com to find out more information.

Introducing G’oodles

– curly-coated dogs thrive on routine and so do their coats

G’oodles (good+oodles) is a female owned and operated Australian business, which has just launched with its detangling shampoo and detangling spray. With a passion for curly coated dogs, Pri Barletta and Nat Sanderson wanted to create products that helped owners maintain their dogs’ high maintenance coats. Together they have worked for the last two years formulating two products. Sanderson with experience in the human hair care industry and fellow groodle owner, and Barletta working with groomers and grooming clients, joined forces to try and alleviate this pain point for owners.

“We want to educate owners on their dog’s needs,” Barletta says. “Curly coated breeds are often sold as low maintenance, and this isn’t the case.”

Sanderson agrees saying: “I was spending more time on Bentley’s (her groodle’s) hair than my own. There wasn’t a product that made grooming easier with the right ingredients, so we wanted to create something that works but is also fun and engaging for the customer.”

Both products are manufactured right here in Australia, with retail and a five-litre format available for grooming salons. The shampoo and detangling spray are cruelty free, vegan friendly, paraben, sulphate and TEA free. It also features all the good stuff like jojoba seed oil and chamomile. Packaged in 100 per cent recycled PET with cheeky slogans like ‘shampoodle for your oodle’ and ‘wrangle the tangle’ it’s hard not to fall in love.

Their mission? To educate owners about the importance of regular brushing, regular grooming, and curly coat maintenance. All while making it easier with products that are specifically designed to help detangle. With fewer knots, there will be fewer dogs with matts, who are more comfortable in their fur and overall, a happier, healthier version of themselves.

To learn more contact nat@goodles.com.au or pri@goodles.com.au or visit goodles.com.au.

PIAA update

The Pet Industry Association of Australia provides an update on the NSW Puppy Farm Bill as wells as news from the aquatics and grooming sectors.

Words Anthony Ramsey

NSW Puppy Farming Legislation Update

WITH THE proroguing of the NSW Parliament prior to the NSW State Election in March, the workable amendments we had secured to the Puppy Farm Legislation have unfortunately lapsed and returned us back to square one. With the election now behind us, a new Labor minority government elected and the new MPs taking their seats in the new parliament, the battle again begins to see the passage of workable pet breeding and retailing legislation. It is paramount that such legislation genuinely increases the welfare standards and best practices of pet breeding and retailing, is effective at eliminating puppy farms and bad operators but not at the cost of quality businesses that are the lifeblood of the pet industry.

We must ensure that we protect the rights of businesses and consumers alike to keep, breed and sell pets whilst ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, ethics and best practices are followed. If PIAA fails in our mission and the far left of politics is successful in implementing their anti-pet agenda, our entire industry will be the poorer.

This is where it gets interesting, after initially looking like the election results in the NSW Legislative Council (upper house) were seemingly all but tied, with no single party or ideology set to hold the balance of power. This gave us hope of achieving sensible common ground and decreased the likelihood of more extreme legislation passing. In early May, a spanner was thrown in the works, with a National Party member, The Hon Ben Franklin,

selling out his political ideals and unexpectedly being elected the president of the Legislative Council. This has the effect of delivering balance of power control of government legislation to a voting alliance of four Greens, one Animal Justice Party (AJP) and one Legalise Cannabis (LC) Party MLCs. This unfortunately bodes very badly for our industry and significantly increases the likelihood of the future of pet breeding and retailing being traded upon in exchange for Greens, AJP and LC support of a broader Labor government legislative agenda. The passage of extreme legislation influenced by the Greens and AJP will cause a reduction in the numbers of puppies and kittens being bred, making pet ownership unaffordable for many families. The logical flow on from this is a year after year reduction in the pet population. This will negatively affect every business in the pet industry regardless of what you sell or what service you provide.

Given the seismic shift in balance of power towards those parties who adopted election platforms that would significantly harm our industry, PIAA has taken the significant step of engaging SEC Newgate to act as consultants in developing an appropriate plan and strategy to achieve the workable and effective outcome we require. PIAA has also convened a stakeholder workshop; we want to cooperate and collaborate with other key industry associations such as Australian Veterinary Association, Animal Medicines Australia and The Pet Food Industry Association of Australia, allowing them to help shape our final policy position.

“If PIAA fails in our mission and the far left of politics is successful in implementing their anti-pet agenda, our entire industry will be the poorer.”

of Australia Industry Insights

SEC Newgate are industry leaders in communications, public relations and lobbying and are an effective team to partner with, especially in times of crisis. This, however, does not come cheap, PIAA has raised some funds through the generous contributions from key industry stakeholders toward the initial costs that will be incurred in fighting this battle. We will however likely need to request further donations as the need arrives. This is an issue we all have skin in the game on and not just a NSW issue, as Queensland and South Australian Parliaments are likely to adopt similar legislation to what ultimately passes in NSW. If you are not already a PIAA member, it is more important than ever to join and support your industry’s voice. Our industry’s future is at stake.

PIAA Aquatics Update: The problem with colour dyed and injected fish

The practice of dye injected, or dye coloured aquarium fish has come to the attention of PIAA over the last few months. This is a cruel and abhorrent practice that involves directly injecting or soaking fish carcinogenic gels and dyes to achieve garishly bright and unnatural fluorescent colouration. Most people are unaware the practice even exists, with stores and consumers alike buying these fish without realising what practices they are unknowingly supporting.

The practice is most commonly seen on Indian Glass fish, Golden Widow tetras and albino Corydoras catfish. The colouration achieved is temporary with consumers unknowingly buying fish, that even if they live, will lose the colouration that was the reason they purchased them. This in itself is unethical and deceptive, however, the far greater issue is the increased incidence of disease and infection that occurs on such fish, especially colour injected specimens, as thousands of fish are jabbed with the same needle resulting in the ready spread of viral infections such as

Lymphocystis. The dyes used are also carcinogenic and have been linked to liver and kidney failure.

All in all, it’s a practice that does not pass the pub test and in the ever-increasing environment of greater scrutiny of poor animal welfare practices, PIAA is making a formal stand against the practice. This will be reflected in pending updates to our code of practice. The good news is PIAA has secured commitments from almost all aquarium fish wholesalers to not import or sell colour dyed fish (most had already ceased the trade of their own choice years ago for the reasons above). PIAA seeks to educate our members and the greater aquarium sector about the problems with these fish.

PIAA is asking for your support in no longer supporting this practice and to not buy or sell dye coloured fish.

It is only through continuing to promote and refine the best practices within the aquarium industry do we maintain our recognition and respect from government. Given the practice is already banned throughout the European Union, this is the type of issue we need to be out in front of and regulate ourselves before the government does it for us.

PIAA Grooming Update

PIAA’s newly formed Grooming Sector Working Group has met for the first time and it was great to see a new enthusiasm among the sector with a genuine desire for change and improved outcomes for all groomers throughout Australia.

The new working group represents a fundamental shift for the grooming sector and PIAA. Groomers are now in charge of their sector and are free to develop and work towards projects and achieve agenda outcomes that they themselves set for the sector. This also provides a renewed opportunity for groomers to truly have a voice to government and accurately represent the sector.

The working group has identified three key focus areas:

Regulation and improved standards

Education & Training

Member benefits

Watch this space as we refine this agenda and seek all our grooming members’ input on the changes the working group develops in each of these key focus areas. n

Diversity, equity and inclusion in the veterinary sector

Words Bronwyn

for World Veterinary Day this year was Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) in the veterinary sector. In celebration of this, the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) hosted a panel to discuss where we are up to on DE&I, and where we need to go. Our view at the AVA is to see the veterinary profession reflect our wider society; that is, we should be as diverse as the communities we serve. Unfortunately, our sector has traditionally struggled

DE&I is essential to nurture a happy and healthy workforce but is also vital to creating safe and welcoming spaces for clients and their pets. DE&I can come in many forms. For example, when building new veterinary hospitals, taking an inclusive design approach will improve accessibility. Ensuring hospitals have plenty of natural light and space, removing any steps and using fonts that are easier for people with dyslexia can all help improve DE&I in the workplace.

The concept of ‘Solve for One, Solve for All’ is another great way of incorporating DE&I into a workplace. For example, some people with invisible disabilities or illness may require quiet, private spaces where they can de-stress. Another group who also require these spaces are lactating mothers who are breastfeeding or pumping. Whenever looking to solve a problem for one group of people, it’s always worth asking who else might benefit and if any tweak

to the solution could expand the benefits to even more people.

Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported at work. Our staff should be able to bring their whole and authentic selves to work, and not be afraid of outwardly expressing their identity. We can support DE&I in our workplaces by modelling this authenticity ourselves, creating a culture that allows staff to share their diversity (only if they desire) and by regularly touching base with staff via anonymous surveys to determine what requirements they may require to be their whole self at work.

As a sector, we need to take two big steps towards improving DE&I. Firstly, we have to understand the demographics of our workforce. We don’t currently know the level of diversity in our sector. However, by incorporating some simple demographic questions designed in collaboration with the community, we can quickly collect that data. And secondly, we need to listen to those traditionally marginalised voices. A DE&I committee would allow our profession to hear straight ‘from the horse’s mouth’, so to speak, about the needs and views of our diverse colleagues.

Being an ally and supporting DE&I means taking action, as well as listening. We all have a role to play to improve DE&I in our workplaces and in our wider profession. Our sector has a bright future, and every veterinarian is welcome no matter who they are. n

“Our staff should be able to bring their whole and authentic selves to work, and not be afraid of outwardly expressing their identity.”

– Bronwyn Orr

Off the back of this year’s theme for World Veterinary Day, the AVA says it’s time to create a safe, welcoming, and diverse veterinary sector

Orr

A purrfect paradise

Paws and palms unite as IndePet hit the idyllic island beaches of Fiji for its 2023 Level Up Conference. Words Thomas Oakley-Newell

FROM 21-24 May, the beautiful island nation of Fiji hosted IndePet’s 2023 Level Up Conference, where delegates and suppliers gathered for a week of learning, networking, and fun.

The event provided retailers and suppliers with the opportunity to learn more about IndePet, the new initiatives it is launching, how it is supporting independent retailers, as well as plenty of opportunities to network, mingle, and enjoy Fiji.

Todd Clarkson, CEO of IndePet, said the conference was a huge success.

“The feedback from our members and supplier partners has been overwhelmingly positive with one supplier claiming it was the ‘best industry event they have ever been to’ which I think sums up the sentiment from many of our delegates.”

the Retail Doctor Group, Ben Dessen and Richard Sheen from Kellyville Pets, James

Prendergast from Central Pet Australia, Britney Westaway from Pet Destination, Darren Dempsey from Royal Canin, Adam Heeley from Boehringer Ingelheim, and Michelle Le Long from PD Insurance.

“The business sessions are always a strong part of our program, and we give a lot of time and thought to preparing a relevant and insightful business program for our delegates –but the highlight is always seeing the personal interactions between our members and our supplier partners,” explained Clarkson.

“We work in a relationship industry and

Events included a trivia night, mud springs, golf, cultural tour, water sports, and on the final night a boat to Malamala island, a private island with plenty of activities and a beautiful pool to sit and drink cocktails in.

New initiatives launched

During the conference, IndePet announced several new initiatives designed to make life easier for independent pet retailers.

The new initiatives, exclusive to IndePet members, include a Virtual Rep, IndePet PetCademy, and IndePet InSights.

The Virtual Rep is an online platform that will

That can be challenging in a real-world sense when it comes to the role of sales representatives due to the geographic distance spread of our membership.

“Our new IndePet ‘Virtual Rep’ is a way for our supplier partners to be able to provide equal service to all our members in a timely manner and also provide enormous time savings for our members,” said Clarkson.

IndePet has partnered with the Retail Doctor Group to launch an online training system called PetCademy to allow IndePet members and their teams to access high-level retail training.

“Independent pet stores are the heart and soul of the pet industry, and the first stop for customers who need care and advice. Our new online training system will further position IndePet stores as the leaders in knowledgeable service.

“IndePet PetCademy is designed using a market leading learning management system platform and we partnered with the Retail Doctor Group to bring the best retail training to our members and their team.”

The platform will also allow suppliers to access all stores to provide the most up to date product training, and in turn enable teams to better support their local communities and provide the best experience for customers.

As large chains have access to a wealth of data across their stores, so too now will independent stores who are members of IndePet with the launch of IndePet InSights.

“IndePet InSights is a group wide data

analytics platform designed to help our members with real time data-based decision making.

“Using industry best practice KPI monitoring and benchmarking it will allow our independently owned stores to leverage the insights of the total group to better serve their customers and their community.”

Awards night

The winners of IndePet’s 2023 Awards were announced on the final night of the IndePet Conference at the private Malamala island in Fiji.

IndePet 2023 Award Winners

• The Founders Award 2023, Australia

– Jaquie and Colin Prior

• The Founders Award 2023, New Zealand – Graeme and Shanla Lewis

• Inspiring Leader 2023 – June Cummings

• Local Community Hero Award 2023 –Murray and Leslie Hill

• Rising Star 2023 – Britney Westaway

• Ultimate In Store Experience Award 2023 – Kellyville Pets

• Supplier of the Year 2023, Australia

– Central Pet Australia

• Supplier of the Year 2023, New Zealand – Brooklands Pet Products

• Suppliers Choice Award 2023, Australia – Pet City

• Suppliers Choice Award 2023, New Zealand – Pet Essentials Whangarei

cocktail drinking, and snorkelling, Todd Clarkson, CEO of IndePet, and Tia Wishart, Business Development Manager at IndePet, revealed the winners of the 2023 awards.

Clarkson announced that the Shareholder of the Year Award will now be known as The Founders Award in recognition of the beliefs, ethics, and values that the founders of IndePet held.

The winner of The Founders Award 2023 in Australia were Jaquie and Colin Prior from Wonthaggi Pet Supplies, Victoria, and the winner of The Founders Award 2023 in New Zealand were Graeme and Shanla Lewis from PetSmart.NZ and PetMart Richmond and Nelson, New Zealand.

On the awards, Clarkson said that while IndePet is committed to ensuring the longevity and prosperity of the independent pet channel, they need independent pet stores of all shapes and sizes to come together and work collectively for the good of the group.

“The winners of these awards are not necessarily the biggest stores in the group, but they are the ones that are proactive in ensuring that the group receives the best outcome.

“They participate in the programs IndePet puts forward and continually work towards making the group as strong as possible. Graeme and Shanla Lewis (New Zealand) and Jaquie and Colin Prior (Australia) believe in the value of IndePet to their stores and are committed to the core value of the group ‘Stronger Together’ – which is why they were both very worthy Founder Award winners.” n

“The feedback from our members and supplier partners has been overwhelmingly positive with one supplier claiming it was the ‘best industry event they have ever been to’, which I think sums up the sentiment from many of our delegates.” – Todd Clarkson, CEO, IndePet

Britney Westaway, Shaz Sutton, and Jacqueline Shapiro Brad Kinsella and Paul Filmer Heather and John Counihan

Jaquie and Colin Prior (middle), winners of The Founders Award 2023, Australia. Last year’s winners Gail and Hans Petiet on the far right.

The Central Pet Australia team, winners of the Supplier of the Year 2023, Australia

Krysten Arnold, Rebecca Kretschmer, Tia Wishart, and Todd Clarkson

Ruby Scott-Smith, June Cumming, and Kahn Dobney

Petway Petcare celebrates 35 years of quality service

Founded in 1988 by Len Miers, Petway Petcare still maintains its family roots but is considerably different from what it looked like in the early days.

What started with a vision to create premium pet grooming products, the company has evolved and expanded its offerings over the years, to include not only the shampoo, conditioner, and cologne ranges, but a wide variety of other products from flea and tick treatments to Soapy Moose accessories, and many more.

Tania Taylor, General Manager of Petway Petcare, said up until about 12 years ago the company was very much focused on supplying pet professionals such as groomers and mobile dog washers.

“Now we supply to a vast network of customers including our pet professionals but also vets, pet stores, produce stores, car washes, pharmacies, health food stores and more. It shows how we have expanded our client base. We also now export to many countries around the world, which I think is a testament to the quality of our products.”

The secret to the company’s longevity in the industry lies in its commitment to providing great products and excellent service, with a number of customers who started buying from Miers still purchasing products to this day.

Petway Petcare takes pride in its word-of-mouth reputation, with many new customers coming through recommendations from satisfied pet owners and professionals alike.

“We strive every day to offer premium products and provide exceptional customer service. We have an amazing team in the office to take orders or queries over the phone, giving customers a real person on the other end to help however they can.

“Orders leave us the same day and we keep at least three months of stock on the shelves, so we are never out of stock and never have to

place back orders for our clients. We are constantly complemented on our customer service and follow up and that really makes your day.”

Standing apart from competitors is no small feat, but Petway Petcare manages to do so through a combination of factors. Their highly concentrated shampoos set them apart, as a little goes a long way, resulting in excellent value for customers.

“While many would have a different opinion on this as everyone has their favourites, I think the product we are most well-known for is our Everyday Pink shampoo – this is one of our original formulas and is the original pink shampoo. We are probably on about version 15 by now as we are always tweaking our products to be the best. We estimate about 8,000 animals a day are washed with this one shampoo around the country.”

Petway Petcare’s dedication to innovation is evident through its ongoing research and development efforts, resulting in the launch of three to four new products each year. Recent additions include the FragranceFree Clarifying shampoo, specifically designed for customers and pets with fragrance allergies. The product has been a tremendous success, meeting the demands of a growing market segment.

“So many people and animals have allergies to fragrance and essential oils these days and can’t find anything decent on the market. We listened and created this product for these customers, and it is selling extremely well.”

With an impressive 35-year journey behind them, Petway Petcare continues to evolve, innovate, and provide exceptional products and service to pet owners and professionals alike.

“It feels amazing to have reached such a milestone in the business. I am sure we will be popping a few corks with the team.” n

A commitment to providing exceptional products and excellent customer service is the secret to Petway Petcare’s longevity.

“We strive every day to offer premium products and provide exceptional customer service. We have an amazing team in the office to take orders or queries over the phone, giving customers a real person on the other end to help however they can.” – Tania Taylor, General Manager, Petway Petcare

t he natural choice ofpetcare

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Shampoos Conditioners

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Petway Pet Care’s diverse range of products are also pet professionals natural choice for our furry friends.

Children with pets less likely to have food allergies

A Japanese study on children found that those exposed to cats or dogs during foetal development and early infancy tend to have less food allergies.

Hisao Okabe and colleagues from the Fukushima Regional Centre for the Japan Environment and Children’s Study, Japan, studied 66,125 children and found that 22 per cent of the children had been exposed to pets during the foetal period, and those exposed to indoor dogs, were less likely to experience egg, milk, and nut allergies.

Those children exposed to cats were significantly less likely to have egg, wheat, and soybean allergies, while those exposed to hamsters

had a significantly higher incidence of nut allergies.

Across a number of high-income countries, more than one in ten children are diagnosed with food allergies and the incidence of food allergies continues to rise.

It should be noted that the data used was self-reported (supplemented by medical record data gathered during the first trimester of pregnancy, at delivery, and at the

one-month check-up) so relies on the accurate recall of participants. Okabe and colleagues from the Fukushima Regional Centre for the Japan Environment and Children’s Study, Japan, published their findings in open-access journal PLOS ONE.

Greencross buys family-owned pet retailer in Victoria

Greencross Pet Wellness Company has entered into an agreement to acquire Melbournebased pet retailer Habitat Pet Supplies.

Established in 2012 by Dean and Rachelle Pantalleresco, Habitat has five locations across Melbourne in Altona North, Burwood, Chirnside Park, North Melbourne, and Port Melbourne.

Dean Pantalleresco said that Petbarn is an iconic brand, and they are thrilled to be merging.

“Since establishing Habitat, we have focused on being at the forefront of pet retailing, adapting to industry growth and the evolving needs of our customers. We look forward to continuing this as part of the Petbarn network.”

Scott Charters, Chief Operating Officer at Petbarn, said that they are excited to continue the legacy that the Habitat team has built with its customers in the Melbourne community.

“Under the Petbarn brand we will continue to provide exceptional customer service and education to local pet parents.”

George Wahby, Chief Executive Officer at Greencross, said he is delighted for the Pantallerescos and the Habitat team to be joining the broader Greencross Pet Wellness Company and more

specifically the Petbarn team with a shared vision of providing the best health and wellness for pets.

Habitat will continue to operate independently until the transaction closes, with no immediate changes to suppliers or store personnel.

The acquisition of Habitat by Greencross comes hot on the heels of its recent acquisition of Centre for Animal Referral Emergency (CARE) and the confirmation it will be opening a multidisciplinary Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) at Minchinbury in western Sydney in late 2023.

Dean Pantalleresco

Boom in mobile vet usage

Pet Insurance Australia has reported that the use of mobile vets among their customers has more than doubled since 2019.

While the pandemic has led to an increase in pet ownership and demand for pet-related services, the growth of mobile vets highlights the importance of this sector.

Mobile vet services have become increasingly popular during the pandemic as people have become accustomed to on-demand services and the convenience of having services delivered to their homes.

Kiri Brandli, Operation Manager at Pawssum Mobile Vets, said that during Covid many Australians realised the importance of mobile vets.

“Pawssum Mobile Vets experienced an increase in demand for two main reasons. Since Covid, people got used to on-demand services in all aspects of their lives. Same with their pets – people now tend to get food delivered and now invite Pawssum vet care to the home. We also witnessed a massive growth in pet ownership during Covid.”

With a shortage of qualified veterinarians, mobile vet services are becoming critical in providing readily available and reliable care for Australian pets, especially for those pets who may suffer anxiety or stress when visiting a veterinary clinic.

Nadia Crighton, Pet Insurance Australia, said it’s not a surprise to many in the industry that veterinarians have one of the most stressful jobs on the planet.

“Mobile vet services allow our hardworking and much-needed registered veterinarians to continue to work their magic while maintaining stress levels that go hand-in-hand with premium pet care.

“More services such as these can literally be a lifesaver for many Australian pets. Offering high-quality veterinarian care in the comfort of your home is a huge benefit to vets, pets, and their owners.”

Brandli said that Pawssum Mobile Vets offers services from sick pet consultations, vaccinations, and peaceful end-of-life care for pets.

“We also offer vet video calls to make it even easier for Australians to access top quality veterinarian advice from the comfort of their homes.”

Pet Circle branches into $1.1 billion pet insurance space

Pet Circle has announced the launch of Pet Circle Insurance, in an effort to shake up the $1.1 billion Australian pet insurance industry.

In the company’s most significant new offering since its inception in 2011, Pet Circle Insurance will offer one of the highest policy limits in Australia for dogs at $30,000 per year to cater for rising vet costs and a single annual excess, while eliminating sub-limits so owners can claim up their annual limit.

Mike Frizell, Co-Founder and CEO of Pet Circle, said pet parents are being underserved by other pet insurance providers and there was a clear opportunity to provide better policy.

“Our Pet Circle Vet Squad that work in veterinary clinics, told us that many pet insurance policies were not up to scratch, with sub-limits catching out pet parents. In fact, about 85 per cent of Australian pet insurance products impose sub-limits that could restrict pets from receiving the best possible treatment. We decided

Pet Circle could do better by providing a more extensive and straightforward pet insurance option for dogs and cats.”

Pet Circle Insurance policies can be personalised with different annual limits, annual excesses ranging from $0-$150, and reimbursements of up to 90 per cent, so pet parents can find the best monthly price for their fur family.

“We have eliminated confusing pet insurance policy features such as sneaky sublimits on payouts on accidents or illness, to make it simpler and easier for pet parents to take care of their pet’s health.

Pet Circle Insurance policies excesses are annual and can be cancelled at any time, which is unlike most other policies which require excesses per claim or per condition. A 360° Care Optional Extras package can also be added, covering Dental Illness, Behavioural Problems, and Supportive Therapies like acupuncture, physiotherapy, and hydrotherapy to help pets heal holistically from an accident or illness.

Mike Frizell with Kobe

Hot Topic

Industry reacts to Bunnings’ pet care expansion

Bunnings has become the latest large corporate business to take a slice out of the pet care category.

BUNNINGS HAS announced the expansion of its pet care category, with hundreds of new products hitting shelves from late March, marking the company’s largest category expansion since the introduction of kitchens two decades ago.

The expanded category features close to 1,000 pet products, from household favourites to Bunningsexclusive brands, and includes a wider range of bedding and durables along with the introduction of food.

Anthony Ramsey, President of the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA), said it’s no surprise that Bunnings has decided it wants a piece of the $13 billion pie that is the Australian pet industry.

“The roll out of large corporate businesses operating chain stores and online only pet product retailers have already seen a significant reduction in the number of independent pet businesses over the past 15 years. Those that have survived have done so because of their points of difference, being their service, advice, range, quality of products, and the in-store retail experience.”

Ramsey believes it is highly unlikely that Bunnings will be able to compete with these types of businesses as they are already so good at what they do.

“I’d imagine Bunnings will target the consumer that already shops in big box chain stores not independents.

Independent pet businesses also have the ability to sell families the pets themselves, be it a budgie, puppy or kitten, guinea pig, lizard or fish. This is a further string to the bow of many independent pet stores and an area that corporate business will never be able to compete against specialised pet retailers.”

Mike Schneider, Managing Director at Bunnings, said pet is a major growth category and believes there’s ample room in the market for larger operations and speciality providers alike.

“We know the role of pets is becoming increasingly important in Australian families and homes and we see huge potential in this growing category when applying our proven strategy of combining lowest prices, widest range and best experience.”

Time to adapt

John Grima, Owner of Kellyville Pets, said that the expansion is realistically no different than Target or Kmart doing the same thing, with the exception that Bunnings can easily trade in larger items such as pet enclosures due to its ability to deal with bulky goods.

“There will obviously be some impact on specialty, however product uniqueness and a business with passion will survive.”

Anthony Ramsey, President, PIAA

Todd Clarkson, CEO, IndePet

John Grima, Owner, Kellyville Pets

Karen Justice, Group Manager, Just for Pets

Mike Schneider, Managing Director, Bunnings

Offering advice to independent retailers, Grima said to look for their unique business opportunity, carry products that are different, be a specialist, move quickly, and accept that others will play in this area and adapt.

“Be aware of how the industry is changing. Don’t criticise, but rather adapt to the changes, as we all shop at places like Bunnings.”

Todd Clarkson, CEO of IndePet, agrees and says that it is paramount that independents keep focusing on what makes them different and not get dragged into competing directly on range or price.

“Independent pet retailers provide a level or service and community engagement that is unique and hard to replicate. The pet category is such a personal, service orientated industry, which a retailer like Bunnings will find hard to replicate as a large volume price orientated retailer.”

Clarkson said to try and avoid products that are going to be subject to the price promises of these large retailers and focus on delivering outstanding service and value to your local community.

“The ongoing deflation of price from the corporate/ online consolidation is reducing value in the industry and undervaluing the knowledge and service that the industry thrives on. The entry of Bunnings into the pet category just further pushed us down this path of low service, low price.”

Karen Justice, Group Manager, Just for Pets, says independent retailers should use this as an opportunity to review their business plan and understand their strengths as a business.

“Ensure your business is up to date with the latest advancements in technology, business practices and offerings.

“Understand your customers, their needs and why they shop with you currently remembering we are in a service-based industry where not everyone is after that low cost, low service model that can be so easily replicated.”

Justice believes that the pet industry, like many others, is under pressure from the cost-of-living increases, and store owners need to continue to find that balance of offering a range of premium products and services to customers at affordable prices.

Uniting the industry

Currently the hardware giant is not involved in any pet associations, such as the PIAA, which advocates for all pet businesses and Ramsey welcomes Bunnings to join the association.

“PIAA encourages and welcomes Bunnings to join our association if they truly want to be considered an active and contributing part of the Australian pet industry, after all, the work PIAA does benefits every pet business, large or small, even giant corporations.”

Grima believes larger businesses such as Bunnings and Woolworths need to contribute back to the industry to encourage higher standards and protect the right for Australians to include a pet in their family.

Bunnings said that they are currently not involved in any pet associations, but will state they will always seek to engage with industry and will always consider options. n

“The pet category is such a personal, service orientated industry, which a retailer like Bunnings will find hard to replicate as a large volume price orientated retailer.”

– Todd Clarkson, CEO of IndePet

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