The 2013 Pet Industry Award winners were announced at a Hollywood-themed event held at the Chesford Grange Hotel, Warwickshire in front of nearly 200 industry movers and shakers.
Introduced to recognise entrepreneurial talent, commercial acumen and quality customer service, the awards were organised by the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) and presented by businesswoman Deborah Meaden, who had taken time out of her hectic Strictly Come Dancing schedule to attend the event.
There were a record number of entries this year and the winners in each category included:
Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Beaphar)
Pets & Aquatics, Cadbury Garden and Leisure, Congresbury, Bristol – Ben Williams
Manufacturer of the Year (sponsored by PATS)
Nature’s Menu – Sallie-Ann King, Peter Roy and Emma MacKenzie
Wholesaler of the Year
Pedigree Wholesale – Steve Brown
Boarding Establishment of the Year
Cavalier Lodge Boarding Kennels, Norfolk – Trevor & Karen Souster
Grooming Business of the Year
Shampooches of Harrogate – Verity Watts
Lifetime Achievement Award
Wendy Stephens – founder of Arden Grange
The awards took place against the backdrop of the Pet Industry Forum, which was packed with a heavyweight line-up of speakers and topics to enliven and inspire delegates. Forum chair, Steve Fowler of PamPurred Pets said: “The feedback from this year’s event has been overwhelmingly positive, with collaboration a dominant theme throughout the two days.”
PIF chief executive, Nigel Baker added: “PIF delivered an extremely enjoyable and memorable event. We are delighted by the very positive feedback, with many calling for the event to be repeated next year.” Further details can be found at www.piffa.co.uk
