Following the success of the first ever National Pet Shop Day in 2024, Johnson’s Veterinary Products announces the return of the event on Saturday, 12th July 2025. This year, the campaign will have the official support of the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) and the British Independent Retail Association (Bira), creating a unified voice to promote and protect independent pet shops across the UK.
National Pet Shop Day was launched by Johnson’s Veterinary Products in 2024 with a clear purpose — to celebrate the vital role that independent pet retailers play in local communities while encouraging consumers to rediscover the value of shopping local. More than 200 pet shops participated in the inaugural event, helping to foster customer loyalty and increase foot traffic to stores. Building on this momentum, the 2025 campaign will offer even greater support for independent pet businesses, while amplifying the message that pet shops are the heart of the pet-owning community.
“At Johnson’s, we have always held the tireless dedication of the nation’s independent pet shops in the highest possible regard,” said Paul Gwynn, Managing Director of Johnson’s Veterinary Products. “These stores are more than just places to buy pet products — they are community hubs where knowledgeable staff offer invaluable advice and hands-on support to pet owners. We are committed to championing the valuable work they do, and with the support of PIF and Bira, we will continue to drive positive change for independent pet retailers.”
The involvement of PIF and Bira reflects a shared mission to strengthen and protect independent and smaller retailers on the high street. Both organisations bring industry expertise and a powerful advocacy platform to the initiative. Their combined efforts will not only reinforce the campaign’s core messages but also highlight the unique value that pet shops offer — from personalised customer service to expert knowledge on pet health and wellbeing.
A unified industry voice
The Pet Industry Federation (PIF), the leading trade association for the UK pet industry, is proud to formally support National Pet Shop Day. According to PIF, the partnership with Johnson’s aligns perfectly with their mission to advocate for independent pet businesses and address the broader economic challenges facing the sector.
“We share a common goal: to champion independent pet retailers and encourage consumers to embrace the benefits of shopping locally,” said Nigel Baker, PIF CEO. “Independent pet shops play a crucial role in their communities, offering a level of personalised service and pet care expertise that cannot be replicated. We are excited to collaborate with Johnson’s and Bira to ensure National Pet Shop Day 2025 is an even greater success.”
Similarly, Bira’s commitment to supporting independent businesses makes them a natural ally in the campaign.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira said: “National Pet Shop Day (NPSD) is a great event focused on important community businesses, many of which are small independent retailers. Bira is all about enabling the indie retailers to succeed – it is our one mission. Supporting NPSD shares the values of our mission by celebrating all that is good in the pet shop sector. It celebrates the hard working business owners who are passionate about supporting their communities. These people are equally passionate about helping customers get the best products and care for their beloved pets. I am often told that independents are at the heart of every good high street. I totally agree and pet shops are very much part of a vibrant high street.”
Celebrating independent pet product retailers
National Pet Shop Day 2025 seeks to address the economic pressures facing the high street, reinforcing the message: “Use it or lose it.” With cautious consumer spending impacting independent retailers, Johnson’s, PIF, and Bira are united in their commitment to support independent pet shops to thrive and serve as essential community resources, by highlighting the unique value these businesses provide — from practical advice on common pet health concerns to offering tailored product solutions.
Pet shops and stores, selling pet products from across the UK are all invited to participate in this national day of appreciation.
For more information on how to get involved in National Pet Shop Day 2025, please visit the official campaign website.
