Shows
Real Pet Industry NewsRoyal Canin Fresh food!?!In this conversation, Clayton and Sam discuss the evolving landscape of the pet food industry, particularly focusing on the rise of cooked pet food, the challenges faced by subscription services, and the significant opportunities within the cat market. They explore the implications of premium pricing, the disconnect in product offerings for cats, and the future of pet food brands as consumer preferences shift. The discussion highlights the need for better quality and more tailored products for cats, as well as the changing dynamics of pet ownership and spending habits.takeawaysRoyal Canin's new cooked food reflects industry shifts...2025-07-2930 minReal Pet Industry NewsNature's Menu cat and Edgard cooper buyoutIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the recent controversies surrounding Nature's Menu and its shift in product quality, the dynamics of the pet food market, and the challenges faced by larger corporations in innovating effectively. They also explore the strategies of brands like Edgar and Cooper and the differences in consumer spending on pet food between the UK and the US.takeawaysNature's Menu has faced criticism for lowering the quality of its products.The pet food market is influenced by consumer education and pricing strategies.Innovation in pet food is lacking, with many companies sticking to...2025-07-2228 minReal Pet Industry NewsBugalugs in Aldi and Pet Industry innovationsummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the rapid rise of Bugalugs in the pet industry, the implications of their brand presence in big box retailers like Aldi, and the potential risks to independent pet shops. They delve into the importance of brand perception and the long-term sustainability of businesses in the pet market. The conversation shifts to the role of scientific research in pet food, questioning the credibility of industry standards and the influence of large corporations. Finally, they explore recent innovations in pet products, highlighting both promising developments and marketing gimmicks.takeawaysBugalugs' growth may threaten...2025-07-1529 minReal Pet Industry NewsVegan Cats and M&AssummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the controversial topic of vegan cat food, highlighting the nutritional deficiencies and regulatory concerns surrounding it. They also delve into the representation of women in the pet industry, emphasizing the significant contributions of female founders. The conversation shifts to the recent acquisition of several pet food brands by Subridge Pet Supplies, analyzing the implications for the market. Finally, they explore the future of wholesaling in the pet industry, advocating for a more transparent and efficient model.takeawaysVegan cat food raises significant nutritional concerns.Cats are obligate carnivores and require animal-based...2025-07-0827 minReal Pet Industry NewsRoyal Canin's Fresh foodsummaryIn this conversation, Clayton Payne and Sam discuss the recent shift of Royal Canin towards fresh pet food, exploring the implications for the pet food industry, market dynamics, and the challenges posed by subscription models. They analyze the impact on premium kibble brands and the role of private equity in shaping business strategies. The discussion highlights the tension between recurring revenue models and traditional profitability, questioning the sustainability of current business practices in the pet food sector.takeawaysRoyal Canin's new fresh food line is a significant shift.The pet food industry is seeing a move towards fresh...2025-07-0127 minReal Pet Industry NewsFresh food and VetsIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the latest financial results from Pets at Home, highlighting the success of their Vets for Pets model amidst challenges in the retail sector. They explore the impact of subscription models on pet food sales and the potential for fresh cooked food to revolutionize the market. The conversation also delves into the growing trend of vegan pet food, examining its appeal and viability in the broader pet food industry.takeawaysPets at Home reported a 13% rise in practice revenues.Vets for Pets is a strong model compared to retail.Retail profits for...2025-06-2324 minReal Pet Industry NewsWorking dog food now with CanagansummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the innovative business model of Kanigan, which is rolling out a new working dog food exclusively through independent retailers to promote local shopping. They explore the challenges faced by independent pet shops in adapting to market changes and the complexities of the working dog food market, including the implications of VAT exemptions and the potential for premiumization. The conversation highlights the need for better support and strategies for independent retailers in a rapidly evolving industry.takeawaysKanigan's new working dog food is exclusive to independent retailers.The business model incentivizes local...2025-06-1721 minReal Pet Industry NewsThe Future of Cat Food and Pedigree WholesaleIn this conversation, Clayton and Sam discuss the evolving landscape of the pet food industry, particularly focusing on the cat consumer market. They explore the strategies of Jolly's in targeting cat owners, the changing habits of consumers towards premium pet food, and the challenges faced by independent retailers. The discussion also touches on the role of veterinary services and the positioning of major players like Pedigree in the market. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for innovation and adaptation in the pet retail sector to meet the demands of modern consumers.takeawaysJolly's is focusing on the cat...2025-06-1032 minReal Pet Industry NewsGuerilla Marketing vs Online marketing, The future of DTCIn this conversation, Clayton and Sam discuss innovative strategies for selling pet products, contrasting scrappy, direct customer engagement with digital marketing approaches. They explore the challenges of direct-to-consumer (DTC) business models, particularly in the pet industry, and emphasize the importance of adapting to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics. The discussion highlights the need for retailers to innovate and compete effectively against larger DTC brands, while also addressing the evolving landscape of pet retail.takeawaysPoured Drinks' success highlights the value of direct customer engagement.Marley Bones focuses on digital marketing but may lack personal connection.Face-to-face interactions...2025-06-0325 minReal Pet Industry NewsUnderstanding the UK Pet industrysummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the intricacies of importing pet products into the UK, highlighting the unique landscape of the pet industry, the role of wholesalers, the impact of Brexit, and effective marketing strategies. They emphasize the importance of understanding the market and building relationships through trade shows and targeted communication.takeawaysThe UK is a highly developed market for pet products.There is a growing demand for pet products in the UK.Private equity is increasingly influencing the pet industry.Wholesalers play a crucial role in distribution.Navigating the import process can be complex and...2025-05-2728 minReal Pet Industry NewsJolleys charity work and Zoomarkkeywordscharity campaigns, corporate responsibility, brand distribution, pet industry, marketing strategies, consumer loyalty, pet food, market trends, Zoomark, pet retailerssummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the corporate cynicism behind charity campaigns in the pet industry, particularly focusing on Jollies' recent initiative. They explore the implications of brands relying on large retailers for distribution, the challenges faced by smaller companies, and insights from the recent Zoomark event. The conversation highlights the need for genuine corporate responsibility and effective marketing strategies in a competitive market.takeawaysJollies' charity campaign is seen as self-promotional rather...2025-05-2029 minReal Pet Industry NewsLegacy Brands and Bad B2B marketingSummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the evolving landscape of the pet food industry, focusing on the rise of Scrumbles as a new player challenging legacy brands. They explore the importance of effective marketing strategies, the need for customer-centric approaches, and the potential for acquisitions by larger companies. The conversation emphasizes the significance of building relationships and goodwill in the pet industry, as well as the changing consumer attitudes towards pet food products.TakeawaysScrumbles has successfully launched new products and expanded into major retailers.Effective marketing is crucial for new brands to compete...2025-05-1334 minReal Pet Industry NewsVets and Subscriptions foodsSummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the latest trends in the pet food industry, particularly focusing on innovative products like gourmet meals for dogs. They explore the marketing strategies behind these products, the challenges of subscription services, and the implications of consumer behavior in the pet market. The conversation then shifts to the veterinary sector, addressing issues such as pricing, transparency, and the influence of corporate ownership on veterinary practices. The hosts emphasize the need for better consumer information and the potential conflicts of interest within the veterinary industry.TakeawaysYears.com offers gourmet meals...2025-05-0630 minReal Pet Industry NewsGlobal Pet Expo review, Chinese products and Sales repsIn this episode, Clayton Payne and Sam discuss the recent acquisition spree by Nutriment, analyzing its implications for the raw pet food market and the competitive landscape. They delve into the legacy of Nature's Menu, the challenges of market segmentation in raw pet food, and the profitability of direct-to-consumer cat food models. The conversation also touches on the recent Global Pet Expo, highlighting the lack of innovation and the overall experience of the event. In this conversation, Clayton Payne discusses the challenges and perceptions surrounding Chinese products in the pet industry, the potential of emerging markets like India and Turkey...2025-04-2949 minReal Pet Industry NewsPet Food Subscription models.... Genius or Garbage?This conversation delves into the evolving landscape of direct-to-consumer (D2C) fresh food subscriptions in the pet industry, particularly focusing on dog and cat food. The hosts discuss the challenges faced by these subscription models, including market saturation, consumer behavior, and the impact of heavy marketing on traditional pet food businesses. They also explore the unique challenges in the cat food market and the controversies surrounding pet nutrition, particularly the role of veterinarians in recommending pet food products.takeawaysD2C fresh food subscriptions are gaining traction in the pet industry.Investment in pet food subscriptions is often...2025-04-2226 minReal Pet Industry NewsRaw feeding and Online retailingSummaryIn this conversation, Clayton and Sam discuss the evolution of Mersey Raw, a pet food company, and the challenges it faces in scaling its operations. They explore marketing strategies for raw feeding, the potential of innovative pet supplements, and the future of online pet retailing. The discussion highlights the importance of customer engagement, product quality, and the competitive landscape of the pet industry.TakeawaysMersey Raw has faced significant challenges but remains committed to its mission.Scaling in the pet food industry requires diversification of products.Marketing strategies should focus on educating consumers...2025-04-1534 minReal Pet Industry NewsForthglade is it losing its way????SummaryIn this conversation, Clayton Payne and Sam discuss the challenges faced by the pet food brand ForthGlade, including its decline in brand identity and market presence due to its shift towards grocery distribution. They explore the implications of this shift for independent retailers and the overall pet food market. The discussion also delves into the evolving treats market, highlighting trends, investment opportunities, and the importance of innovation in pet food products.TakeawaysForthGlade's decline is attributed to its grocery distribution strategy.Independent retailers are losing customers to grocery chains.Brand identity is crucial...2025-04-0822 minReal Pet Industry NewsPets at Home and Private EquityIn this episode, Clayton Payne and Sam discuss the current struggles of Pets at Home, focusing on their declining retail performance and the impact of competition from other pet supply stores. They explore the changing landscape of the pet retail industry, the importance of veterinary services, and the potential for Pets at Home to go private. The conversation also delves into branding strategies and growth opportunities for the company, emphasizing the need for innovation and adaptation in a saturated market.takeawaysPets at Home is facing significant challenges in the retail market.The veterinary segment is a strong...2025-04-0133 minReal Pet Industry NewsCorporate Vets and Halal pet foodIn this episode of Real Pet Industry News, Clayton and Sam discuss the rapid corporatization of veterinary practices, the challenges faced by independent vets, and the implications for pet care and nutrition. They explore the viability of ancillary pet services like grooming and hydrotherapy, and delve into the emerging niche market of halal cat food, evaluating its potential and challenges in the pet food industry.takeawaysThe rapid expansion of corporate veterinary practices is concerning for independent vets.Corporate ownership may lead to standardized care and product recommendations.Vets may face pressure to sell specific products due to...2025-03-2527 minReal Pet Industry NewsB Corps, Napo pet insurance and Bella and DukeSummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the recent decision by Scrambles to not renew their B Corp certification, citing concerns over the certification's integrity and its shift towards marketing rather than genuine ethical business practices. They delve into the broader implications of sustainability in the pet food industry, questioning whether consumers truly care about certifications like B Corp. The conversation shifts to Scrambles' strategy of entering supermarkets, the challenges faced by the pet insurance industry, and the recent move by Bella and Duke to expand beyond direct-to-consumer sales. Throughout, they emphasize the importance of genuine commitment to...2025-03-1727 minReal Pet Industry NewsNutriment, Biome9 and Wilsons cold pressedSummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the implications of NutriMint's rapid acquisitions in the pet food industry, questioning whether it is becoming a monopoly. They explore the distribution strategies of NutriMint and the potential impact on competition and consumer choice. The conversation then shifts to Pooch and Mutt's acquisition of Biome 9, analyzing the complexities of the subscription model in pet health. Finally, they evaluate Wilson's Pet Food's diverse product range and the challenges of maintaining a strong market position amidst competition.2025-03-1133 minReal Pet Industry NewsOmni pet food, Vets vs CMA and Jolleye's price 'drops'SummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam delve into the current trends and challenges in the pet industry, focusing on the controversial vegan dog food brand Omni, the competitive landscape of pet retailers like Jolly's, and the complexities of the veterinary market. They discuss the implications of marketing strategies, consumer preferences, and the need for regulatory oversight in pet food and veterinary practices.TakeawaysOmni's reliance on questionable research raises concerns about their product's efficacy.The vegan dog food market is not appealing to the average pet owner.Jolly's price strategy may not be sustainable...2025-03-0427 min
Pet Business DisruptorsThe Wild West of Pet Nutrition: Unpacking the Myths and Realities of Dog FoodHost Clayton, Sam Muelas, and Caroline Griffiths dive deep into the complexities of the pet food industry, particularly focusing on raw and processed pet foods. They discuss the disparities in nutritional guidelines, the challenges consumers face in understanding pet food labels, and the implications of marketing strategies employed by large corporations. The conversation highlights the importance of education for both pet owners and industry professionals, emphasizing the need for transparency and authenticity in pet nutrition. KEY TAKEAWAYS Variety in Pet Food Composition: There is a significant disparity in the composition of pet foods, particularly in...2025-02-0355 min
Pet Business DisruptorsBehind the Scenes of Pet Retail: Sam Muelas Discusses the Challenges Facing Independent StoresClayton sits down with Sam Muelas, owner of The Pet Quarter and a prominent figure in pet nutrition on YouTube. The conversation dives into Sam's journey from a failed entrepreneur in finance to a passionate advocate for pet health and nutrition. They discuss the challenges faced by independent pet stores in a market increasingly dominated by private equity and subscription models, emphasizing the importance of product differentiation and ethical practices in the pet food industry. Sam shares insights on the pitfalls of sugar and cereals in pet food, the significance of educating customers, and the need for innovation among...2025-01-201h 15