Retailers

Online pet store triples workforce

PetShop.co.uk revealed it has tripled its workforce in light of a rising demand for online pet products amid the ongoing pandemic. The online retailer, based in Stratford-upon-Avon, said that the nationwide lockdown has led to a 300% increase in sales from owners who need pet food delivered to their homes. …

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OATA urges government to clarify guidelines for aquatic retailers amid Covid-19 crisis

The CEO of the Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association (OATA) has written to the government to clarify whether furloughed staff can volunteer to care for aquatic livestock whilst “off work” amid the Covid-19 pandemic. In a letter to the of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, OATA has asked for clarification due…

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Vetoquinol reveals ‘strong’ first quarter figures amid Covid-19 crisis

Global animal health company Vetoquinol has revealed “strong” first quarter results amid the Covid-19 crisis. The company reported a 13.4% rise in total group sales to €103.4m (£90.5m), with ‘essential sales’ increasing by 17.9% to €53.4m (£46.8m). Sales of companion animal products came to €60.1m (£52.6m) and accounted for 58.1%…

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Bira welcomes additional support for Scottish retailers

Bira has welcomed a move by the Scottish Government to give additional financial support to small retail businesses. Scottish Ministers have announced a second phase of funding – worth £120m – in response to the outbreak of coronavirus, which results in businesses with one property will get a 100% grant.…

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Pet shop licences may be extended, says PIF

Pet shops whose licence is to be renewed may be granted an extension amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to Pet Industry Federation (PIF). PIF’s Primary Authority partner, the Corporation of London, has received a response from DEFRA with regard to the extension of licences for businesses who operate under the…

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Pets Corner reopens shops in garden centres amid coronavirus pandemic

Pets Corner has reopened its stores in 15 garden centres across the UK amid the coronavirus pandemic. Garden centres temporarily closed its operations,following government regulations to close all non-essential shops last month. Dean Richmond, Pets Corner CEO, said at the time: “Sadly, despite being allowed to trade as an essential…

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BIRA fight ‘anomaly’ in government grant funding

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is highlighting an ‘anomaly’ in government grant funding meaning small independent retailers could be missing out on £15,000 Covid-19 cash. According to real estate advisory firm Altus Group almost 3,700 small shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants could miss out on the money. An early…

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CFSG issues new guidelines for pet businesses operating during Covid-19 pandemic

The Canine and Feline Sector Group (CFSG) has issued new guidance for pet businesses operating during the coronavirus pandemic to offer “clear advice” as to how they can comply with requirements. The document, which is subject to change amid government advice, entitled ‘Covid-19 – Advice for Animal Related Businesses and…

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Online pet food prices increase amid Covid-19 virus outbreak, report finds

A new report by the Office for National Statistics has revealed an increase in online prices on pet food amid the coronavirus pandemic. The report revealed a 3.1% increase in price for the two weeks between 16-22 March and 23-29 March, with an average of an increase of 1.1% per…

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Covid-19: Bira welcomes call for more loan access

A government pledge to pressure banks into supporting small business during the coronavirus pandemic has been welcomed by the Pet Product Retail Association parent company the British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA). The business secretary Alok Sharma recently called on high street lenders to ease access of the Coronavirus Business Interruption…

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