Just for Pets owner acquires Pets & Friends

GENERAL MERCHANDISE NEWS

PSR Trading, the owner of Just for Pets, has acquired Pets & Friends from Kennelpak for an undisclosed fee.

The purchase includes Pets & Friends’ 19 stores and 17 grooming salons which are mainly in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. The company also has an an online business and subscription service.

Operating alongside Just for Pets, Pets & Friends will continue to trade under its existing name with all of of its store and salon staff transferring to PSR.

The move marks a significant milestone in family-owned PSR’s growth strategy as it has expanded its number of stores to 42. With its sites predominantly situated in the Midlands, the company is currently on the lookout for new locations.

Paul Lewis managing director of PSR Trading, said: “We’re excited to welcome Pets & Friends to PSR, it offers something different to customers and complements our portfolio of brands, Just for Pets and Dog by Just for Pets.

“All jobs at store level will remain in place including store managers, store teams and groomers and I can’t wait to meet every team member as we look to continue the businesses growth together.”

Claire Bayliss, chief executive officer of Kennelpak, said: “Under our management, Pets & Friends has undergone a significant transformation with investment at every level, evolving from a Midlands-based retailer to a much-loved multichannel pet specialist brand with national reach.”

Kennelpak will now be focusing on the development of its wholesale and distribution division.

Bayliss added: “Our aim is to strengthen its position as the trusted pet specialist, with an even greater emphasis on supporting our distributor partners’ plans for growth and continuing to deliver exceptional service for our customers.”