The Stars Shine At The Pet Industry Awards Big business and small enterprises scooped trophies at the Pet Industry Awards, at the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel on Sunday 20 September. Revellers celebrated the best in the pet business at the event organised by the Pet Care Trust in association with PBW News and sponsored by Mars Petcare and Nestlé Purina.
‘All the categories had been hotly contested, which goes to show just how strong the pet industry is,’ said Steve Fowler, chairman of the organising committee. ‘It was a fantastic evening – there’s real party spirit in our sector! Many congratulations indeed to all our winners and thank you to everyone who took part.’
The Manufacturer of the Year title went to Beaphar UK. ‘This tremendous accolade is down to the dedication and hard work of the entire Beaphar team,’ said Sue Huggett, Business Manager of Beaphar UK. ‘We embrace the philosophy to manufacture premium performance products that are equally matched by unrivalled customer service, and it is a great pleasure to receive recognition at the Pet Industry Awards.’
Bath Pet Centre was crowned Retailer of the Year – continuing their winning streak having previously won the Best Pet Shop Event award during National Pet Month. Proprietor Janine Tozer said: ‘We are extremely delighted that all of our hard work, dedication and commitment has been recognised through this prestigious award. It really is all credit to our staff.
‘Winning did take me by surprise as I knew the others’ standards were really high and I was really proud just to have been shortlisted. It was a lovely evening, with really enjoyable entertainment from The Real Thing. It was perfect.’
Small businesses also got a look in as Posh Paws Dog Grooming collected the prize for Grooming Business of the Year. ‘We are absolutely thrilled to have won this award. Posh Paws Dog Grooming celebrates its 21st year of trading this year and this is the ultimate accolade for us and quite a birthday present,’ said owner Sue Kemp.
Many guests commented on the success of the awards in raising awareness of the high standards and commitment of businesses in the pet sector. ‘To have such an award as this is great recognition of the dedication and professionalism that groomers are striving to achieve,’ said Sue Kemp.
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The evening also included the presentation of two product prizes judged during Glee Petindex. The Becobowl, produced by Becothings, took the Pet Innovation Award. And the Aquatic Innovation Award was won by Bermuda, for its Milan Table Top Feature.
‘Winning the Best Product Award was a complete surprise,’ said Toby Massey, Design Director of Becothings. ‘Just to make the shortlist was a major achievement as this is our first ever pet product. Hopefully the BecoBowl will be the start of many award winning eco-friendly products.’
The evening was topped off by the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Margaret Renton-Ferris was honoured for her 60-year career and contribution to the pet sector. Russell Taylor of Armitage Pet Care gave a warm tribute to Margaret, describing her as ‘an amazing woman in every respect.’
Margaret collected her trophy with characteristic feisty stoicism, saying: ‘I’ve had a happy, happy time working in the pet trade. This is a lifetime achievement but I’m not dead yet! Give me another 20 years and we’ll see what I can do.’
To view pictures of the entire event, log onto www.petcare.org.uk
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