UK’s first foodhall for dogs set to launch

The newly renovated Bobby & Co is set to host the world’s first foodhall devoted entirely to dogs, as part of a multi-million-pound renovation of a former Debenhams department store in central Bournemouth. 

The new foodhall, entitled Drool, will feature a cake shop, a ‘Lick ‘n’ Mix station’, and a doggy tuck shop, alongside a dog ball recycling centre. 

Organisers have called it the “very first foodhall to be created with dog’s health and happiness front and centre”. 

Alongside dog treats, the foodhall will also offer refreshments for people, sold from a dog shaped converted 2CV truck.  

All the treats have been taste-tested by dogs, and include Fish and Chip Flavour Dog Treats, Seaside Theme Biscuits, “Cherry Barkwells”, Dog Doughnuts and Liver Cakes, which will be freshly made each day. The ‘Lick ‘n’ Mix’ station will offer cheese stars, apple and mint bites, dried banana, and dried sardines.

Seaside-themed bags of treats, dog wine and beer, and dog peanut butter will also be available from the tuck shop.

Drool organisers said that all treats have been sourced from artisan dog bakeries from around the UK, including Millie and Ruby’s and baker Charlotte O’Toole of Bakeorama. 

Drool forms part of the grand reopening of the Bobby and Co department store. Verve Properties, an ethical property company, has been working to give the building a “new lease of life”. The pop-up is expected to last until September. 

Special charity days are also planned throughout the duration of the pop-up, such as the set to be truly iconic “Basset Hound ‘Agility’ Course” which will raise money for the breed’s rescue charity.