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A husband-and-wife team running a Petpals franchise in Essex have won a Great British Franchisee Award, one of the UK’s top honours for franchise businesses.
Bev and Phil Haydon, who own Petpals Chelmsford, Maldon and Danbury, were recognised for staff retention, customer service and community involvement.
The award follows their takeover of the business in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, shortly after the death of its previous owner.
The couple said their priority at the time was to safeguard jobs and maintain standards of pet care. All staff members remained in post during the transition.
Their branch has since specialised in solo dog walks, adapting the pace and style to suit individual pets. Judges highlighted the couple’s “emotional and strong story”, noting positive customer reviews and ongoing support for local animal charities.
The pair also sponsor local dog shows and mentor other franchisees within the Petpals network.
Kevin Thackrah, director of Petpals, said the Haydons had shown “dedication and heart”, turning a “difficult start into a flourishing business”.
